Turning on the central heating system only to discover that it’s not working can be disheartening. If you expect warmth but don’t feel anything when you turn on the thermostat, the solution may be found in one of these troubleshooting tips. Here’s what you should try before you call your HVAC contractor.

How to Troubleshoot a Faulty Heater

1. Breaker Box

Peek inside the breaker panel and inspect the switches for signs of a tripped fuse—one flipped in the opposite direction of the others. If that fuse belongs to your furnace, reset it by moving it back to its original place. You can also attempt to turn it off completely, then restart it.

2. Air Filter

It’s not unusual to forget about replacing the air filters, particularly if you’re just turning on the central heating system for the first time this season. The filter is responsible for trapping contaminants that would otherwise circulate throughout the air in your home and diminish your indoor air quality.

However, the longer it goes without replacement, the harder it forces the system to work to heat the home. If it’s clogged with debris from last season, it may not work effectively. Try replacing the filter, and do so at least once every two to three months—monthly if you have a furry pet.

3. Thermostat

Thermostat problems can develop over time and prevent your central heating system from working normally. If the unit is especially old, for example, it may have some buildup inside that impacts its ability to alert the furnace to turn on. If the batteries are leaking, corrosion could stop the contacts from transmitting power. If they look fine, however, they might just need to be replaced.

If these troubleshooting tips don’t work, contact the team at Ashland Furnace Co. Proudly serving homeowners throughout Boyd County, KY, for more than 50 years, these experienced HVAC contractors offer a variety of services, including furnace and AC repairs and 24-hour emergency service. Visit them online for information, or call (606) 325-3211 to schedule an appointment.