When you wake up with a chill in the air and go to investigate, there could be several reasons why your home is cold. If your furnace turns on, but there’s no heat, there might be a quick fix, or it might need a professional touch.
In this guide, we’ll explore three of the most common reasons why a furnace might run without heating and what you can do to fix them.
Incorrect Thermostat Settings
The thermostat is the command centre for your heating system, and if it’s not set correctly, your furnace may not function as expected.
- Thermostat Not Set to Heat: It may sound simple, but double-check that your thermostat is set to “Heat” rather than “Cool” or “Off.”
- Fan Set to ON Instead of AUTO: If the fan is set to ON, it will blow air continuously, even when the furnace isn’t heating. Switch it to AUTO so it only runs during heating cycles.
- Temperature Set Too Low: Your furnace may not kick on if the temperature setting is lower than the room temperature. Try increasing it by a few degrees.
If these adjustments don’t resolve the issue, the thermostat may need new batteries or replacement.
Airflow Problems
Restricted airflow can prevent warm air from circulating throughout your home. Here are common airflow-related issues to check:
- Dirty Air Filters: A clogged air filter restricts airflow, making it difficult for warm air to reach your vents. Check your furnace filter and replace it if necessary.
- Blocked or Closed Vents: Ensure all supply and return vents are open and not blocked by anything, including furniture, curtains, or other objects.
- Ductwork Issues: Leaky or damaged ducts may let warm air escape before reaching your living spaces. If you suspect duct problems, consider a professional inspection.
Fuel Supply & Ignition Problems
If your furnace isn’t getting enough fuel or experiencing ignition issues, it won’t be able to produce heat.
- Gas Supply Issues: If you own a gas furnace, ensure the gas valve is open. If you use propane or heating oil, check your fuel levels and refill them if necessary.
- Pilot Light is Out: Older furnaces use a standing pilot light to ignite the burner. Follow your manufacturer’s instructions to relight it safely if it’s out.
- Faulty Electronic Ignition: Modern furnaces use an electronic ignition system, which can fail over time. Check for dirt buildup or damage if your furnace has an igniter switch.
When to Call a Professional
If your furnace still isn’t producing heat after troubleshooting these common issues, it’s best to call a professional HVAC technician. They can diagnose more complex problems like faulty sensors, control board issues, or a failing blower motor.
Stay Warm This Winter With The Heating Ninja
Don’t let furnace troubles leave you in the cold! Regular furnace maintenance in Calgary ensures your heating system runs at peak efficiency and reliability throughout the winter. At The Heating Ninja, we offer comprehensive furnace inspections, maintenance, and repairs to keep your home warm and comfortable, but we can also help out in emergencies.
Whether you need a quick fix or a full system check-up, our expert technicians are ready to help. Schedule your furnace maintenance today to prevent costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns. Call us today to schedule a service appointment!
