What to do if your Furnace isn't functioning.

No heats are no fun and can leave you in the cold. If you find yourself experiencing issues with your furnace here are some things you can do. - First thing is to check the thermostat. Is it on and showing numbers? If not check that the batteries are new and functioning. - Next go to the furnace and turn off the switch to the furnace (usually on the side and is a light switch) and then pull the filter out. Ensure it is clean and not riddled with gunk. - Turn the switch back on and just watch what it does for the first 3 minutes. There usually is a peep hole in one of the doors. If there is a light blinking, you can count the short blinks and long blinks. On the back of one of the doors will be a chart that tells you what the blinks mean and where the issue is occurring. - If you hear the flames come on and then turn off within 30-60 sec or less the flame sensor needs inspected and possibly cleaned. - If you hear the gas come out of the valve without any flames, the ignitor may be bad. Most of the time you can shine a light in the cabinet and see if its cracked or calcified. - If the blower motor comes on and nothing else, there is a safety lock out most likely. Leave the furnace switch off for 5-10 minutes, then check the filter for cleanliness. Restart the furnace and see if it starts up. If not, a technician may need to check that everything is safe and operational for further use. - If the motor connected to the exhaust starts and nothing else comes on the pressure switch needs attention (2" round black disc with a tube connected to the metal in the cabinet). Sometimes the tube/inlet to the heat exchanger gets clogged and needs blown out. While somethings are a quick, easy and safe fix proper precautions need taken at all times. The furnace deals with high voltage 120v electricity, natural or propane gas, moving parts and creates carbon monoxide. A trained professional should be called to service any equipment to ensure safety. Never work on a furnace that has power going to it (turn the breaker off and test for voltage before working on anything)