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A Simple Guide to Furnace Ignition Failure
Posted On: November 4, 2024
Here’s a straightforward guide to help you troubleshoot furnace ignition failure, a common issue that can lead to a cold house in the winter. Furnace ignition failure can have multiple causes, and identifying them early can save time, energy, and repair costs.
1. Check the Thermostat
- Ensure it’s set to “Heat”: The thermostat should be set to “heat” and at a temperature higher than the current room temperature.
- Inspect the Batteries: Some thermostats use batteries, so replace them if necessary. This could resolve the issue without further troubleshooting.
2. Inspect the Air Filter
- Replace Dirty Filters: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and shut down as a safety precaution. A fresh filter can allow your furnace to work efficiently and prevent ignition issues.
3. Look for Power Issues
- Circuit Breaker: Check the furnace’s circuit breaker in your electrical panel. If it’s tripped, reset it once. If it trips again, you may have a larger electrical issue that requires a professional.
- Furnace Switch: Make sure the power switch, which usually looks like a light switch near the furnace, is in the “on” position.
4. Verify Gas Supply
- Gas Valve: If you have a gas furnace, check that the gas valve near the furnace is open. The lever should be parallel to the gas line when it’s open.
- Gas Line and Supply: Sometimes, the gas company may have shut off the supply for maintenance. If you suspect an issue with gas flow, contact your gas provider.
5. Inspect the Igniter
- Hot Surface Igniter: Many modern furnaces use an electric igniter, which can fail over time. A visible crack or wear on the igniter usually indicates it needs replacement. This repair often requires professional assistance.
- Pilot Light: For furnaces with a pilot light, check that it’s lit. If not, relight it if you feel comfortable, or call a technician if you have trouble with it.
6. Examine the Flame Sensor
- Clean the Flame Sensor: Over time, the flame sensor can become dirty, which prevents it from sensing the flame. Use a fine-grit sandpaper or a cloth to gently clean the sensor. This can often restore normal furnace function.
7. Check for Error Codes
- Error Lights: Most modern furnaces have a diagnostic light that flashes in a particular pattern if there’s an issue. Refer to the furnace manual to interpret these error codes, which can help pinpoint the problem.
8. Assess the Blower Motor and Vents
- Vent Blockages: Ensure nothing blocks air vents and ducts. Restricted airflow can also cause safety switches to trigger.
- Blower Motor Reset: Some furnaces have a reset button on the blower motor. Press this if your furnace isn’t responding.
When to Call a Professional
If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it’s best to contact a licensed HVAC technician. Attempting to fix more complex problems on your own can be unsafe and may lead to further damage.
Following these steps can often solve simple ignition issues and get your furnace running smoothly again!
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See What Our Customers Are Saying:
Jul 2, 2017
Very impressed they arrive to quote even though I had forgotten to call them back to confirm date & time. They showed the day before installation to deliver the unit. Returned the next day as promised at 9am. Project was completed in a professional manner. They even fixed a few things that they noticed were not installed correctly, or to code by previous heating & air contractors we had at our residence before. Would recommend this company to everyone!
Jun 29, 2017
Greg removed old oil furnace and oil tank from basement relocated new Napoleon propane furnace to allow duct work to be rerouted to a much more suitable location. Moved air conditioner to the new furnace. Dave recommended two available grants to assist with cost. They kept to their original quoted price which was substantially lower than a competitors for the same furnace and work. They completed the work as stated when stated and left the area clean and tidy. We are very pleased with the outcome.
Jun 28, 2017
Twintech installed a Goodman furnace and ac init. Very professional install, both units are working well.
Jun 28, 2017
We had Grant and Greg Dainty quote to replace our 20 yr old furnace. I have known them for years and have had other jobs done by them ( AC and Pool Htr). The price was very reasonable and the job was completed in one day.
Jun 23, 2017
TwinTech was the right choice. Our consultation with Dave set the tone. Professional and knowledgeable, we even received a follow-up call within hours of our install completion, wow! TwinTech arrived as scheduled to install our A/C unit. Within minutes of arrival Greg noted and explained a few out of code faults on our furnace installed by another company, problems fixed, thanks TwinTech. Greg, Grant and "Subaru" Pete were meticulous start to finish. Highly recommended!
Jun 13, 2017
Twintech replaced our aging +20 yrs old Furnace & AC with the variable high efficiency Napoleon Furnace matched with the Goodman AC. Sales guy ,Dave was great, gave a no pressure estimate, explained about the Government Rebate program which they took care of completely including arranging the home energy audit. On the scheduled day Greg and his team arrived on time, did a great job and completed the same day , extremely professional and courteous, cleaned up everything , tested the system, Greg took his time to explain the setup. Very impressed with the Napoleon Furnace 9600 which did a great job in maintaining a comfortable temperature last winter and now with the hot weather the Goodman AC cooled the house in much less time than the old AC unit could ever. From start to finish Twintech were great and have no hesitation in recommending them 100%.
Jun 13, 2017
The Twintech team did an excellent job installing our new Goodman air conditioner. They were polite and professional. Greg was knowledgeable and clearly experienced. Thank you Twintech for bringing our cooling system up to current regulations. Job well done!
Jun 11, 2017
Dave from TwinTech was very knowledgeable, professional and thorough in the buying process. He helped us to identify the best furnace for our home and our budget. When we needed a new filter a year later and seemed to have a problem finding the right one, I called Dave up and he delivered a filter to me the next day! The cost was on par with other retailers, but it was this unexpected personal service that really was impressive. The furnace? Works like a charm.
May 27, 2017
Imagine, it's 5 minutes after the midnight countdown New Year's eve and the furnace quits. We called TwinTech fully expecting to leave a message and actually spoke with Greg, one of the owners! We had an immediate repair early the next morning & a new furnace within the week. We have entrusted TwinTech with all our home HVAC service needs for over 6 years. That's why this week with an opportunity to purchase a new BBQ, we called them 1st to see about a gas line install. It's chicken on the grill tonight! They are efficient, reliable, honest, hard working, and -- attentive is an understatement.
Jan 19, 2016
Wonderful customer service, starting from the job quote (Dave), to the clean install, to the follow-up. Twintech is a small company which installed my Napoleon furnace, A/C, John Wood tank, and ran the line for my gas dryer. The installation was completed as promised in one day. The work area was kept very clean, and they even took care of my old rental tank. The professionalism and wonderful customer service is second to none. They completed all of my rebate paperwork, and now I'm getting $2000 back! You will not be disappointed if you hire this company for your project.
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