Furnace not working?

The first chilly days of the year are no fun if you turn on the heat and nothing happens. At a certain point, sweaters and fuzzy socks aren’t enough. Do you a) turn on the oven and try to heat the house, b) DIY some repairs, or c) call a professional?

Whatever you do, don’t choose the letter “a”.

Up to 50,000 emergency room visits and 1200 deaths each year are caused by carbon monoxide poisoning. Never use an oven, BBQ or patio heater to heat indoor spaces. Most furnace repairs are best left in the hands of professionals, too.

However, there are some simple and safe troubleshooting steps you can take now to put you on the road to warmth.

Furnace Is On, But No Air Is Moving

If you can hear the blower running and can see the flame, but there is only a trickle of air coming through the ducts, look at your filters. Poorly fitted or very dirty filters can block airflow. Changing filters is a simple task that can be done yourself.

Pilot Is Lit But Furnace Not Working

This could be a sign of something easy to solve or something for a professional. Check your thermostat first. Newer electronic thermostats need a regular battery change for operation.

Not the thermostat? If you are comfortable with opening up your furnace to look at the burner, that’s the next step. Otherwise, call a professional.

No Pilot Light

Newer furnaces have electronic ignition instead of a pilot light. Check to see that there is power to your furnace if you are having trouble getting it lit. If you have an older furnace with a pilot light, check to see if the pilot light is lit and that the fuel valve is open.

If you are handy, a small wire brush to clean the holes in your burner and pilot light may help. Following the directions on the furnace, attempt to light the pilot light. If you smell gas strongly, do not continue.

Furnace still not working?

Problems That Need Professionals

A furnace not working can indicate problems you can’t solve on your own. Call for service if

1) Strong smell of gas or the carbon monoxide/smoke detectors keep sounding

2) Squealing or scraping sounds

3) Flickering or yellow flames

4) Constant blower or frequent on/off cycles

5) No heat or flame at all

Some of these problems are avoidable with maintenance. Others are a consequence of age and wear. A professional with the correct diagnostic equipment can guide you.

Emergency Service Calls, No Problem

Sewell Electric Company dispatches technicians for “furnace not working” and other emergency HVAC calls. We also handle routine maintenance and annual service.

We have more than 72 years of combined experience in service to Franklin and the surrounding community. Contact us today!