Why Won’t My Heating System Turn On?

One of the most common, inconvenient, and frustrating problems of homeownership is a heater that won’t turn on when the temperatures begin to drop. Although a more serious issue may cause a heater that will not turn on with your HVAC system, there are a few simple things that can cause a heater not to turn on in your house. Keep reading for some tips to troubleshoot a heater on the fritz.

Check the Thermostat

If your unit is not turning on, you may be experiencing issues with your thermostat. There are many factors that can cause a malfunctioning thermostat. The first step would be to check if there is power going to the thermostat. Occasionally, a storm can knock the breaker to the unit. Make sure that if your unit is connected to the breaker, it’s receiving power. Also, it is important to check that the furnace door is closed. Some units have a switch inside the door that will signal a power shut-off if left open. If your thermostat is battery operated, try replacing the batteries.

Once you have established that there is no issue with power in the thermostat, check the temperature settings on the unit. Make sure that the unit is set to heat and that the power settings on the unit are appropriate. If the unit is receiving power and the settings are correct and the furnace will not turn on, it may be another issue.

Check the Filter

Another common cause of a heater that won’t turn on is an old, dirty or broken air filter. The experts at Howard Air recommend replacing your air filter regularly to keep your furnace running efficiently. A dirty, broken, or old filter can cause the unit to heat improperly or prevent it from starting. Simply replace the filter and see if the furnace turns on.

Check the Air Flow

Maybe your heater unit is functioning, but there is no air flowing into the rooms. This can indicate that perhaps your air register may be closed. Confirm that the appropriate air registers are open and that air is flowing consistently from them. If the air registers are open, but there is no airflow, the blower in the furnace may have malfunctioned. Ensure that the motor belt is in good condition. If cracks or frays are noticeable, it’s time to replace the motor belt.

Igniter or Pilot Light

If your unit is connected to gas, your pilot light may not be lit, or you may have a faulty or dirty light. This may be the case if the thermostat is operational but the heat hasn’t come on. Many homeowners prefer to contact a professional when addressing issues with the pilot light, but you can carefully fix a dirty pilot light yourself if you feel comfortable.

First, shut off the gas to the unit. Open the front panel to access the pilot light. Remove the pilot light from the unit after consulting the user’s manual. Once the pilot light is out of the unit, use mid-grade sandpaper to carefully remove debris that may have built up on the light. Place the light back in the unit, put the panel back on, and restore the power to the unit. If the ignitor remains unlit, it is important to contact a professional to diagnose and fix the issue.

Heater Not Turning on in Phoenix?

If you have tried these simple troubleshooting tips and your heater still won’t turn on, it’s time to contact the professionals at Howard Air. When the temperatures start to drop, don’t get left in the cold!

The experts at Howard Air are available to assist you with all of your HVAC and furnace service needs. Howard Air has been the consumer’s choice in Phoenix for over 40 years, from a faulty pilot light to routine maintenance.

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