As the weather turns colder, a faulty or broken furnace could leave your family chilly and miserable. Osterwisch Company recommends avoiding the most common heater problems this winter by learning how to make simple fixes at home. Whether you are handy, curious, or just motivated to get the heat turned on, learn the most effective ways to repair your furnace in the list below. 

Easy Furnace Fixes 

Check the Thermostat 

In many cases, you can fix a broken boiler by troubleshooting the thermostat. First, make sure the appliance is on the heat setting. Next, confirm the number on the thermostat is five degrees higher than the room temperature. If the heater kicks on, your machine is fixed. You may also want to check the battery system before moving on to the switches and breakers. 

Explore Switches & Breakers 

If it is not your thermostat, it is time to check the switches and breakers. First, look for a standard wall switch on or next to the furnace. If your heater turns on when you flip the switch, you have likely found the source of the problem. If not, you can examine the circuit breaker. Access the front panel covering the motor and check that the push-in switch is fully activated. If every item looks like it is operating correctly, you may need to change the filter instead. 

Change the Filter 

Similar to your air conditioning unit, a dirty air filter can cause problems with your furnace. Dust and debris will make the unit work harder without providing real heat. Since large dirt particles restrict airflow, overheating can occur. This will cause your furnace to turn off without warming your home. If you find this is the issue, replacing your filter every few months will eliminate breakdowns in the future. If you have a large family or pets, you may want to change it more often. 

Look for Leaks 

If none of these actions work, check if your furnace ducts are decreasing air flow. Blocks or breaches in your conduits may need sealing so the heater distributes warmth properly. Use metal duct tape to close any leaks. You may also want to make sure all of the furnace’s room registers are open. 

While these strategies can solve many problems, you may need to call a professional for more complicated issues. To make an appointment to evaluate your furnace, call Osterwisch Company in Cincinnati, OH, at (513) 791-3282. For information about their heating and cooling services, including repairs for boilers and air conditioning, visit their website. You can also receive at-home temperature control tips by following them on Facebook.