With temperatures dropping and winter coming, you have probably turned on your heat already. If you haven’t had your fall furnace tune up completed yet, you may run into some issues with your furnace not providing the heat you want. Though we always recommend to have annual maintenance on any furnace over 3 to 5 years of age, there are some things homeowners can do before calling a heating company for service or furnace repair in Brookfield or any city in Southeastern Wisconsin. Here are six things that can be checked and resolved by most homeowners.
Check the Thermostat
There are a few things to check with your thermostat. First, ensure that the thermostat is set to “Heat”. Second, check on the temperature setting. Is the thermostat set to the correct temperature you want? Lastly, is the thermostat activating the furnace? Turn the temperature setting down below the current temperature and, then, turn it back up about 5 degrees above the current temperature and listen to make sure the furnace is activated and turns on.
Check the Power
Your furnace relies on electricity to operate, even if it is a natural gas furnace. Make sure the power switch is set to the “ON” position. Also, check the circuit breaker to ensure it is set to the “ON” position and is in good working order. If you need to reset the circuit breaker but it immediately switches off again, call a service technician.
Change Your Filter
A dirty or clogged air filter is one of the most common causes of ineffective heating, as it restricts air flow and prevents fresh air from getting into the furnace. Check your air filter and, if it is dirty or clogged, replace it immediately. One test to determine if it needs replacing is to hold it up to a light. If you can see through the filter, it is okay; if you cannot see through it, it needs to be replaced. Most filters should be replaced every 1 to 2 months, but check and follow the manufacturer’s directions.
Check the Pilot Light
Gas furnaces have a pilot light that is usually located behind a small door or plate near the base of the furnace. This pilot light should always be lit to provide an ignition source for the furnace. If the light is out, you can try lighting it using a long fireplace match or a grill ignitor. If you cannot get it lit or have any concerns about trying to light it, call a heating company.
Check the Air Intake Vent
If the air intake vent is blocked, fresh air will not be able to get into your furnace and it will not operate properly. Check the air intake pipe, located outside of your house, and make sure it is not blocked by any debris or other items. Remove any leaves or other debris away from the air intake vent.
Check the Blower Motor
Stand near the furnace and, when you hear it activate, listen for the start of the electric blower motor. You should also feel warm air coming through your home’s vents. If you hear the furnace ignite but don’t hear the blower motor turn on or don’t feel warm air from the vents, the blower motor may have failed. It is time to call a furnace repair company.
Call New Berlin Heating & Air Conditioning for Your Heating Needs
Wisconsin winters can be brutal and your furnace will probably be in demand every day and night. If you ever have any issues with keeping your home and family comfortable, follow the above tips; they just may save you from needing a service call from a local HVAC company.
If you do need help in ensuring your furnace is working efficiently, the NATE certified technicians at New Berlin Heating & Air Conditioning are trained to service and repair all makes and models of heating equipment. We have been providing heating, air conditioning and indoor air quality products, as well as HVAC services to Southeastern Wisconsin homeowners for over 30 years. We are recognized as one of the leading heating companies in Brookfield WI and all surrounding cities. If you need a fall furnace tune up or any other heating and cooling services, please give our team a call. We’d love to show you why our customers keep calling us back for their HVAC needs.
