When winter hits, it’s important to make sure that your furnace is working properly. Unfortunately, even the most reliable of furnaces can experience issues, such as not starting automatically. If your furnace won’t start automatically, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take to get it up and running again. Here’s what you need to know.

Check the Thermostat

The first step in troubleshooting your furnace won’t start automatically is to check the thermostat. Make sure that the thermostat is set to the correct temperature. If the thermostat is set too low, the furnace won’t turn on. If the thermostat is set too high, the furnace won’t turn off. Additionally, check to make sure the thermostat is set to “auto” and not “off.” If it is set to “off,” the furnace won’t turn on automatically.

Check Your Furnace Filter

If the thermostat is set correctly and your furnace still won’t start automatically, then it’s time to check your furnace filter. Dirty or clogged filters can cause your furnace to stop working properly. Replace the filter, and your furnace should start working again. It’s a good idea to replace your furnace filter every three months to ensure that it is clean and free of debris.

Check the Pilot Light

If your furnace still won’t start automatically after checking the filter, then it’s time to check the pilot light. A pilot light is a small flame that ignites the gas in your furnace. If the pilot light goes out, the furnace won’t start. In order to relight the pilot light, you will need to locate the pilot light switch on your furnace. Turn off the furnace and wait a few minutes before turning it back on and relighting the pilot light.

Check the Circuit Breaker

If the pilot light is lit, but the furnace still won’t turn on, then it’s time to check the circuit breaker. If the circuit breaker has tripped, then the furnace won’t start. To reset the circuit breaker, locate the circuit breaker box and look for the switch labeled “Furnace.” Flip the switch, and the furnace should start working again.

Check for Gas Leaks

If your furnace still won’t start automatically, then it’s time to check for gas leaks. Natural gas is highly flammable, so it’s important to make sure that there are no gas leaks in or around your furnace. If you smell gas, then you need to contact a professional technician right away. Do not attempt to repair a gas leak on your own.

Check for Air Leaks

In addition to checking for gas leaks, it’s also important to check for air leaks. Air leaks can cause the furnace to work harder than it needs to, which can result in it not starting automatically. Check around the vents and ducts for any cracks or gaps, and use caulk or other materials to seal them. This will help to ensure that your furnace is receiving the proper amount of air.

Check the Blower Motor

If your furnace still won’t start automatically, then it may be time to check the blower motor. The blower motor is responsible for circulating the air through the furnace and into your home. If the blower motor is not working properly, then the furnace won’t start. You can check the blower motor by removing the cover from the furnace and inspecting it. If the blower motor is not functioning properly, you will need to replace it.

Check for Debris

Finally, if your furnace still won’t start automatically, then you should check for debris around the furnace. Debris can block the flow of air and prevent the furnace from starting. Make sure to remove any dust, dirt, or debris from around the furnace. Additionally, check to make sure that the vents and ducts are not blocked or clogged.

Call a Professional

If you have tried all of these troubleshooting steps and your furnace still won’t start automatically, then it’s time to call a professional technician. A technician can diagnose the problem and repair the furnace. In some cases, the issue may be more serious and require a new furnace. It’s important to have your furnace checked regularly to prevent any major issues.

Conclusion

If your furnace won’t start automatically, then it’s important to take the proper steps to troubleshoot the problem. Start by checking the thermostat and the filter, and then move on to other components such as the pilot light, circuit breaker, and blower motor. If all else fails, then it’s time to call a professional technician. With the right help, you can get your furnace working again in no time.