No Heat? Try These DIY Furnace Fixes Before Calling for Help

We’ve all been there it’s chilly outside, you’re all set to cozy up at home, but your furnace has other plans! Before you hit the panic button, there are a few DIY fixes you can try. A lot of times, the problem is simple enough to handle on your own, and getting your furnace back up and running may be easier than you think.

Check Your Thermostat Settings

First things first, let’s rule out the easiest (and often most common) issue: your thermostat. Double-check that it’s set to "Heat" and that the temperature is set a few degrees higher than the current room temperature. Also, if your thermostat takes batteries, make sure they’re fresh – dead batteries could be causing the thermostat to shut off. Sometimes, a quick reset can do the trick, too. Set it to “Off” for a minute, then switch it back to “Heat” to see if that helps.

Change or Clean Your Furnace Filter

Dirty air filters are a sneaky culprit behind no-heat problems. Over time, they collect dust, hair, and other debris, which clogs airflow and can even cause your furnace to overheat and shut down as a safety measure. If you can’t remember the last time you changed or cleaned the filter, it’s probably time! Check your furnace’s filter, and if it’s visibly dirty, swap it out. Aim to change or clean it every 1-3 months, especially in the winter when your furnace is running more often.

Inspect Your Circuit Breaker

If your thermostat and filter look good, let’s move on to power issues. Sometimes, your furnace may lose power because a breaker has tripped. Head to your breaker box and find the switch labeled “Furnace” or “Heating System.” If it’s in the “Off” or neutral position, flip it back to “On.” If it’s tripped, this might be a one-time issue, but keep an eye on it – frequent trips could mean there’s a bigger problem that needs professional attention.

Check the Furnace’s Pilot Light or Ignition System

If you have an older furnace with a pilot light, check to see if it’s still lit. If not, you might need to re-light it according to the manufacturer’s instructions, which are usually found on a label near the furnace. For newer systems with electronic ignition, the fix might be as simple as a system reset. You can do this by turning the power off for a minute and then back on. If you’re not comfortable with this step, though, it’s perfectly okay to call for help!

Look for Blockages Around Vents and Ducts

Finally, take a quick look around the house for any blocked vents or ductwork. Sometimes furniture, rugs, or other items block airflow, preventing warm air from circulating properly. This can make it feel like the furnace isn’t working, even though it’s running fine. Make sure all vents are open and unobstructed to keep your house heating efficiently.

When to Call the Pros

If you’ve tried these quick fixes and still don’t have heat it might be time to bring in the experts. There could be a more complex issue, like a failing component, wiring issue or even a gas leak. At Mile High Plumbing, Electric and Air, our team is ready to diagnose and solve any heating problem big or small and get you back to a cozy home in no time.

So, next time you find yourself shivering indoors, remember these DIY fixes! And if all else fails give us a call. We’re here to make sure you stay warm and comfortable all winter long.