6 Things to Check before Calling for Furnace Repair

During the winter months, you can’t afford to have a broken furnace in your home. But before you call in the cavalry for furnace repair in San Jose, CA, here are a few simple things you can check that may spare you a service call:  

Check the Thermostat 

It might sound too obvious, but you would be surprised the number of calls we get where the only thing that needs fixing is the thermostat setting. Sometimes a child or guest fiddled with the buttons and accidentally switched things off. Or sometimes the thermostat is simply on the wrong setting. So the very first thing you should troubleshoot is the thermostat. In the winter be sure the thermostat is set to heat. To test it make sure the thermostat is set to a temperature that will keep the furnace on so it doesn’t keep turning on and off during troubleshooting. Then give it about a minute for the fan to come on and the heat to start blowing.   

Check the Air Filters 

Furnace issues are another common problem. We don’t blame you, they are easy to forget about. The filter cleans the air before it gets pulled through the system. If the filter is dirty or clogged it will compromise airflow. This can cause pressure and heat to build up in your furnace and it will burn out even faster. Modern furnaces are even more sensitive and will automatically shut down if the filter is clogged. So if you notice a significant reduction in airflow or your furnace keeps shutting down, check and replace your air filters.    

Check the Batteries or Other Power Issues 

Most thermostats are wired into the electrical system. If it runs on electricity try testing the fan switch. Switch it to on and see if the fan turns on. If it does, you can rule out power related issues. If it doesn’t come on check for batteries or another power related issue.   

Check the Circuit Breaker 

If you still can’t find the problem at this point it is time to check the breaker panel. There should be a circuit that exclusively controls your HVAC system. Take that switch and turn it all the way off and then switch it back on. And if the electrician did a poor job of labeling and you can’t figure out which switch goes to the furnace, try looking for a one that appears out of position. Switch it off and rest it. Then go and test the fan on your furnace again.   

Check the Switch on the Furnace 

Furnaces usually have their own switch. This power switch often resembles a regular light switch on the unit or a nearby wall and is often unlabeled. It may have been turned off, being mistaken for a light switch. Typically if the switch is up then it should be on. But in some cases, it might be improperly installed. So try flipping it and give it a few minutes to see if your furnace comes to life.   

Check the Pilot Light or Gas Valve 

Old furnaces have pilot lights. If it is out there should be instructions on the front panel that tell you how to relight it. Another check is the gas valve. It is rarely touched, but worth a check if you have made it this far and not resolved the problem. If it doesn’t work, or you are uncomfortable dealing with the pilot light and gas valve, don’t hesitate to let an expert perform the job for you.   

Call Pelle Heating & Air Conditioning 

You would be surprised by how many service calls we get with these kinds of simple solutions. Troubleshooting these items before you call (408) 978-7060 could save you a lot of time and money on furnace repair in San Jose, CA. Our technicians can come out diagnose the problem and get your furnace fixed up. Stop by 1045 N 10th St., San Jose, CA 95112 if you have any more questions about troubleshooting your furnace.