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Furnace Troubleshooting Guide: Keep Your Home Warm

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Furnace Troubleshooting Guide: Keep Your Home Warm

Posted On: November 2, 2024

Furnace Troubleshooting Guide: Keep Your Home Warm

Is your furnace acting up? There’s no need to panic just yet! A few basic troubleshooting steps can often save you time and money, especially if the problem is simple. Here’s a guide to help you identify common furnace issues, understand their causes, and perform some easy fixes.



1. Check the Thermostat

  • Problem: The furnace doesn’t turn on or doesn’t seem to heat effectively.
  • Solution: Ensure your thermostat is set to “Heat” and that it’s on a temperature setting higher than the current room temperature. Make sure it’s powered on, and check the batteries if it’s a battery-operated model.

Tip: Clean your thermostat regularly. Dust can affect its functionality, causing it to misread the room temperature.



2. Inspect the Air Filter

  • Problem: Reduced airflow or uneven heating throughout your home.
  • Solution: A dirty air filter restricts airflow, making your furnace work harder and less efficiently. Inspect and replace your filter every 1-3 months, depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Tip: Consider setting a reminder to change your filter each season to help your furnace run smoothly.



3. Check the Furnace Switch and Circuit Breaker

  • Problem: Furnace won’t start at all.
  • Solution: Make sure your furnace switch (located near the furnace itself) is in the “On” position. If the furnace still doesn’t start, check your circuit breaker to ensure the furnace’s circuit is not tripped.

Tip: If you reset the circuit breaker and it trips again, avoid further troubleshooting and contact a professional. This could indicate a more serious electrical problem.



4. Ensure Proper Ventilation and Clear Vents

  • Problem: Uneven heating, weak airflow, or furnace shutting down unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Inspect your home’s vents and make sure they aren’t blocked by furniture, curtains, or other obstructions. Also, check for anything blocking the furnace’s external vents.

Tip: Periodically walk through your home to make sure vents and registers are fully open and free of obstructions.



5. Look at the Furnace Pilot Light (Gas Furnaces Only)

  • Problem: Furnace isn’t producing heat.
  • Solution: For gas furnaces with pilot lights, check to see if the flame is lit. A functioning pilot light should burn a bright blue. If it’s off or burning yellow, you may need to relight it or contact a professional to address a potential gas leak.

Warning: If you suspect a gas leak, leave your home immediately and contact emergency services. Do not attempt to fix this issue yourself.



6. Examine the Furnace Flame Sensor

  • Problem: Furnace turns on but shuts down shortly after.
  • Solution: A dirty or faulty flame sensor can cause your furnace to shut off unexpectedly. Carefully clean the flame sensor with a soft cloth or emery paper, but ensure the furnace is off before doing this.

Tip: If this doesn’t fix the problem, consider calling a professional for further inspection.



7. Listen for Unusual Noises

  • Problem: Furnace is making strange noises (banging, rattling, or screeching sounds).
  • Solution: Banging noises can indicate issues with the burner, while rattling may suggest loose parts. Loud screeching noises often point to issues with the blower motor. Tighten any loose panels, but if the noise continues, call a technician.

Tip: Regular maintenance can prevent many of these issues from developing in the first place.



8. Inspect Blower Motor and Belts

  • Problem: Furnace blows cool air or has weak airflow.
  • Solution: Check the blower motor for dust buildup or worn-out belts. Dust can sometimes prevent the blower motor from working effectively, and old belts might need replacing.

Tip: Be cautious when working near the blower motor. It’s best to turn off the furnace completely to avoid injury.



9. Test Furnace Safety Switches

  • Problem: Furnace won’t start or shuts off unexpectedly.
  • Solution: Safety switches prevent the furnace from overheating. If they’re malfunctioning, they may need to be reset or replaced.

Tip: Most homeowners should avoid handling safety switches, as incorrect handling can lead to further issues. If you suspect a switch problem, consult a licensed technician.



When to Call a Professional

If you’ve gone through these steps and your furnace is still not working properly, it’s time to call a licensed HVAC technician. Additionally, any issues related to gas leaks, electrical faults, or complex mechanical components are best left to professionals.



Regular Maintenance Keeps Your Furnace Running Smoothly

Remember, regular furnace maintenance, like cleaning the blower and replacing air filters, can help prevent many common issues. A professional inspection at least once a year can ensure your system is ready for the colder months.


With this troubleshooting guide, you’ll be better prepared to handle basic furnace issues and keep your home warm and comfortable throughout the winter.



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See What Our Customers Are Saying:

by Harry in Toronto on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Ever since I turned on my furnace on Oct 2018 I hear a humming sound when the furnace fan kicks in. I called Adamson Air System who installed my furnace 7 years ago and couldn't figure it out the problem. I just wasted money to the guy who couldn't figure it out. I found Twin Tech via Amana / Goodman website. I checked the reviews from previous Twin Tech customers. I called Greg and was onsite on time this morning Sunday, Nov 25 2018. He figured it out what's wrong with the furnace and explained what the previous installer (adamson air system) did wrong when they installed it. His knowledgeable about his job. He recommend to replace the fun motor because the sound is not normal when it's running. Looking forward to see him again to replace the fan motor.

by Roger in Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Our house is over 22 years old and I had been researching furnaces and A/C brands for a while and thought it was time to take the plunge. After calling three different companies to come in and quote the job, this one won me over. From the first visit from Dave all the way to the end of the install by Greg, Grant, and Piotr, I was glad to have picked this company. Dave was very knowledgeable and really took the time to explain what kind of quality installation I was going to get as well as showing me some of their previous work and certificates.

I was also surprised at how quick the installation took and how nice everything looked afterward, I mean it's only a furnace right? They even re positioned the furnace so that I have easier access to my filter and humidistat, awesome! If you are looking for a company that cares about their customers and is proud about the quality of work they do, along with a great and competitive price, then stop right here because you found it.

by Louis in Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Once our AC Unit started to fail, I called our past Heating & Cooling provider for support. The response was we needed a new motor for our Furnace. It was time to check their Quote against the marketplace, I reached to other providers online. One of the owner of Twintech (Greg), called me and offered a preliminary Quote and recommendation online. The others needed to set an appointment and came to measure and spend 1 hour before offering a quote. Then I asked Twintech to come finalize their quote to make sure their recommendation was aligned and met our needs.

Twintech was professional throughout the process, easy to deal with (Web, Phone and in Person), price right and met their commitment. Their team expedited the process and installation, arranged for a energy assessment for available rebates and most importantly, delivered on their commitment and managed to do a few extras. They installed a New Furnace, AC unit and Nest thermostat in a day, remove all older units, left the house and outdoors clean and without any debris. Great to be able to support a Local Company, Neighbour and Professional team - Well Done Team Twintech !!!

by Elizabeth and John L from Scarborough on Twintech Heating and Cooling

In October 2018, I contacted Greg at Twintech to do a furnace cleaning. Greg discovered that my furnace, installed in 2006 by another company, had been installed incorrectly, leading to restricted air flow. The heat exchanger was also defective. As well, my furnace was too large for the size of my house.

In my opinion, the biggest concern most of us have as consumers is that we have no idea of the quality or knowledge and experience of the technicians any heating and cooling company will send into our homes. I could have avoided having my 2006 furnace installed improperly (leading to early replacement), had I known about Twintech then.

With Twintech you get it all. Because Twintech is a smaller company you can rest assured that the only technicians who will work in your home are Greg and his twin brother Grant who are co-owners and fully licensed and certified with over 30 years of experience in installing and servicing heating and cooling equipment. They are both friendly and personable and answer all your questions. Their workmanship is outstanding. We had a 2 stage, variable speed Goodman furnace installed. My wife and I noticed a difference in the heating and even temperature of our 2 storey home almost immediately. Our old furnace always heated too much on the main floor and too little upstairs. We are also impressed with how quiet the furnace is.

Twintech's office manager, David Gergley, is equally friendly and not only gave us a competitive quote to replace our furnace (we sought other quotes), but also went above and beyond my expectations when he made arrangements with an energy audit company so that we would be considered for a grant from Enbridge and IESO.

Needless to say, I give Twintech a 10 out of 10 and highly recommend them!

by James, Ajax on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Clean, Fast and Efficient Work. Between all the quotes I received Twintech was a few dollars less and offered the best warranty.

by garysumnec360, Whitby on Twintech Heating and Cooling

They did an excellent job. Everything was very well explained. At the end of the job everything was very well cleaned up.

by Glade, Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Twintech offered me a competitive price but more importantly great sales and installation service. They did everything with attention to detail and quality workmanship that is hard to find in this day and age. Dave who first game to visit me answered most of my questions and probed about my needs. For the technical/install questions he was unable to answer he quickly had Greg and Grant the owners answer for me. They did not cut corners on the installation or do anything to simply save time. They stayed into the early evening to complete the job and removed all my old components and even fixed up mistakes other workers ahd made in the past. I would highly recommend them and use them again if the need arises in the future. If you are looking for service or new equipment I would highly recommend Twintech be on your list of Heating companies to get a quote from and ask your questions to.

by Anne of Major Oaks in Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

The company epitomizes high quality service: from the initial client interaction with Dave to the installation and follow up with the technical team. One of the key features I look for is the ability of a technical person to talk to and not talk down to the customer when responding to questions and I had quite a few, all of which were very professionally addressed. I was also quite impressed with the follow up service, promptness, the obvious competence of the team who left no stone un-turned to ensure I was a satisfied customer. Thank you guys.

by Aileen Johnson in Toronto on Twintech Heating and Cooling

All staff concerned were total professionals. Sales rep Dave was like having an old friend at your house. No up selling or pressure, just good honest facts and figures. The owners and assistant who installed our unit worked quietly, efficiently and left our home clean. We could not have been happier with the service and attention we were given. We are so happy a family member recommended Twintech. She said "don't call anyone else, just call them...they are amazing". And they were!!! Thank you guys for the great work!!! A. Johnson

by Lynsey from Toronto on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We are completing a large project adding an addition on to our house and couldn’t be more pleased with our decision to trust Twintech with our hvac work. They removed and replaced the furnace, installed a new A/C unit, swapped our tank water heater for a tankless unit, and completed ducting and new A/C lines through the addition. Without hesitation we would recommend Twintech to anyone.

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See What Our Customers Are Saying:

by Robert Rogers on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Very pleased with the professional service that TwinTech Heating and Cooling provided in replacing my furnace. I got several quotes from different service providers. Their price was excellent and they explained the features very well. We are very glad we went with TwinTech and highly recommend their services.

by Robert Mizuno on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We were new homeowners in need of a second opinion. TwinTech Heating & Cooling were Amazing and professional. Very knowledgeable and great service all around. Recommend to anyone looking for honest and reliable services. Treated with respect and care. Thank you Greg, Mitch and Bob!

by Ruth on Twintech Heating and Cooling

TwinTech is an excellent and honest company! I called them for a second opinion after being told by another company that I needed to replace my furnace. Turns out this was not the case at all! I did not need a new furnace. TwinTech did not push to make an unnecessary sale and saved me from a huge expense. Bob and Mitch were extremely professional and above all honest! I definitely recommend TwinTech!

by Anna Chin on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Amazing experience with TwinTech Heating & Cooling! Their team was professional, knowledgeable, and efficient from start to finish. They installed my new furnace quickly and left everything spotless. The technicians took the time to explain everything and made sure I was comfortable with the system before they left. Great customer service and fair pricing. I highly recommend them for anyone needing HVAC services!

by Connor Agnew on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Great experience all around. Bob was sharp and easy to talk to, and Greg handled the installation perfectly. Would hire them again in a heartbeat.

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