The Tri-State area is a region that experiences long winters and freezing temperatures. Being without heat isn’t just a comfort issue; it can impact your family’s health. If your heat fails, it’s important to call your local HVAC company immediately. Once you know a technician is on the way, here are some steps you can take while you wait.
Review Your Thermostat
Thermostat-related problems are among the top causes of no heating. Make sure that your thermostat is on and the LCD is lit. A blank screen may indicate a dead battery or a system fault. You can have a clogged condensate drain line or a bad control board, for instance. If the thermostat is functioning, make sure it’s set to heat mode and an appropriate temperature. If you have a programmable or smart thermostat, review the programming. A bad schedule could be blocking your heating system from functioning correctly.
Check the Circuit Breaker
Inspect the heating system’s circuit breaker to ensure that it hasn’t tripped. If you have a fuel-fired system, be mindful that it likely has a breaker as well. That’s because modern fuel furnaces have electronic ignition systems and may need power for other components. If the circuit breaker has tripped, you can reset it once. You may need to reset the heating system as well, such as via the reset button found on many furnaces. If the circuit breaker trips again, don’t keep resetting it. This likely indicates a more serious electrical problem, and additional trips could lead to further damage.
Consider the Outdoor Disconnect Switch
Most modern HVAC systems have an outdoor disconnect switch required by code. It allows a technician to disable the system without interacting with the electrical system. Open the box and make sure the plug is present and firmly seated. If the plug is loose, reseating it may allow your heating system to run. If the plug is missing or damaged, our technicians will be able to replace it when they arrive.
Examine the Pilot Light
Most modern fuel-fired heating systems have an advanced electronic ignition system. That said, if you have a furnace older than 10 years, it may have a standing pilot light system instead. Check to make sure the pilot light is lit, and if it isn’t, that’s the problem. Clear the pilot light chamber of any dust, and relight it. Your pilot light should be relatively easy to relight. If it isn’t, it may indicate carbon deposits that the technician will need to clean. Once lit, ensure that the flame is mostly blue with perhaps a tinge of orange or yellow at the tip. Any other color indicates improper combustion and the potential for carbon monoxide exposure. Turn the furnace back off, and wait for our technicians to arrive.
Inspect the HVAC Filter
A clogged HVAC filter can restrict airflow and cause static air pressure to rise. If the pressure is too high, it will trip the system and prevent it from running. If the filter has visible dust buildup, replace it, and check if the heating system will start up. Another potential issue is using an incorrect filter. A HEPA filter, for instance, will restrict airflow too much. If your system only supports up to MERV 8, using a MERV 13 filter, for example, can have a similar effect. You should also check all the vents throughout your home to ensure there aren’t any blockages.
Check Your Other Heating Equipment
If you have gas plumbing outside of the furnace, check it. Make sure that the valve isn’t inadvertently closed. No fuel flow will prevent the heating system from cycling on. Most modern furnaces have a reset button on the outside of the panel. Pressing the reset button may allow a furnace that has tripped to cycle back on. If you have a standalone or dual-fuel heat pump, check the outdoor condenser unit. If it’s covered or there are any obstructions, that lack of airflow can prevent the system from cycling on.
Expert Heating Solutions in the Tri-State Area
OnTIME Service serves the Tri-State area from our location in Henderson, KY. Our HVAC company has more than 30 years of experience in the region. We employ NATE-certified HVAC technicians who handle all diagnostics and repairs. We are a proud Trane Comfort Specialist, but our team services all furnace and heat pump brands. If you’re without heat, call us anytime of day or night for emergency service.
