You don’t want to deal with a faulty furnace in the middle of the winter. Not having sufficient heat output will make your living space uncomfortable, pose a danger to your family’s health, and increase the possibility of frozen pipes. Unfortunately, even with proper maintenance, your heating system can develop problems that hinder its ability to operate properly. If your equipment is acting up, try the following troubleshooting tips before calling for professional help. 

How to Troubleshoot Your Furnace When the Heat Goes Out

1. Change the Filter 

Over time, a filter can become clogged with dirt and dust, which inhibits airflow. If light doesn’t easily pass through when you hold the filter up, it needs to be replaced. It’s generally recommended that filters be changed every three to four months, or more frequently if you have pets or allergies. 

2. Confirm the Power Is On 

In some cases, the power to your furnace may simply be off. If you can hear the fan running, this means the unit has power, but if not, try resetting the fuse in the breaker panel. Turn the furnace switch back on and see if power has been restored. If it still doesn’t work, this could be a sign there’s something wrong with the control board, motor, capacitor, or transformer, requiring help from an HVAC contractor. 

3. Check the Thermostat

It’s possible someone else could have changed the settings on the thermostat without you being aware. Make sure it’s switched to heat and the temperature has been set high enough. If it uses batteries, put in new ones. Electromechanical thermostats can collect dirt and debris, so these models may need to be opened and dusted. 

4. Inspect the Flame

A furnace that is in good condition will have a bright blue flame. This indicates the fuel is burning safely and efficiently. If you notice a red, yellow, green, or purple flame instead, you should contact a heating professional right away. Any color other than blue usually means the burner isn’t receiving enough oxygen for complete combustion. 

5. Ensure the Vents Are Open 

You may notice that your furnace seems to be running fine but heat isn’t being distributed throughout the house. Check all of the rooms of your house and make sure the vents are fully opened and nothing is covering them that could prevent the air from coming out. 

If none of these steps are successful at bringing your heat back, it’s likely your furnace will need to be inspected by an HVAC contractor. The team at Blue Ox Heating & Air will use their vast industry knowledge and experience to determine what the issue is and how to repair it. Numerous homeowners throughout Minneapolis, MN, have entrusted them to provide quality services that help maintain efficient and comfortable living environments year-round. They are available 24 hours a day to take care of any heating emergency you may have. Call (612) 326-3837 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about the heating services they offer.