5 Furnace Troubleshooting Tips

Winter has arrived in the Pacific Northwest. You fire up the furnace. It clicks on, but your Seattle, home is not warming up.

What went wrong here?

Your furnace problem may require repair. If that’s the case, you can count on Ballard Natural Gas Services to quickly troubleshoot the issue and find a practical solution. For over 30 years, our licensed HVAC technicians have been providing heating, cooling, and electrical services to homeowners in King and Snohomish counties.

Before you call for help, let’s see if there is a simple fix to get your heater running again!

5 DIY Tips for Troubleshooting a Furnace Problem

Ballard Natural Gas Services is your local heating expert in the Puget Sound area. We offer 24/7 emergency heating repair and promise never to replace a part unless it’s necessary or doing so will save you money.

Here are five troubleshooting tips to try out first:

1. Check the Air Filter
   The HVAC air filter protects the indoor air quality (IAQ) inside your Seattle, home by trapping contaminants, allergens, and other pollutants before they circulate from room to room.
   
   A clogged air filter is the most common cause of furnace problems because it restricts airflow and forces your system to struggle. We recommend checking it monthly if you have pets or allergies.
   
   Otherwise, follow your HVAC owner’s guide on when to replace it. Most air filters should be replaced with a new one every 1-3 months.
2. Inspect the Thermostat
   Think of your thermostat as the quarterback of your HVAC system, barking out orders on when to heat up or cool down your Seattle area home.
   
   When your furnace acts up, the thermostat is one of the first things to check. Ensure it’s set to “Heat” and the temperature is higher than the current room temperature.
   
   Also, check if the batteries are working properly.
3. Examine the Pilot Light or Ignition
   Think of the pilot light as the match that lights a candle.
   
   The pilot light or ignition system in a furnace serves as the ignition source for the main burner. It provides a small, continuous flame or an electric spark to ignite the gas that flows into the burner.
   
   If your furnace has a pilot light, be sure it’s lit. If it’s not, relight it according to your furnace’s manual. For electronic ignition systems, check if the power is on and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
4. Check for a Blocked Vent or Duct
   It’s easy to cover up a vent or grille. Sometimes, you might have to rearrange a few pieces of furniture to keep those vents unobstructed. A blocked vent can hinder airflow and reduce heating efficiency, forcing your system to struggle.
   
   Leaky ductwork? No problem! Our Greater Seattle HVAC professionals will inspect your air ducts for any rips or tears that might compromise your airflow. We’ll also check them for any blockages, such as debris or nesting animals.
5. Look for Error Codes
   Many modern furnaces display error codes on a digital display. Consult your owner’s manual to understand the meaning of the code and troubleshoot accordingly. If you’re unsure, call one of our Ballard Natural Gas Service professionals for assistance.

Additional HVAC Tips for Seattle, Homeowners

1. Annual Maintenance: Schedule a professional furnace tune-up before the winter season to ensure optimal performance and identify potential issues early on.
2. Carbon Monoxide Detector: Install a carbon monoxide detector and test it regularly. If you suspect a gas leak, evacuate your home immediately and call emergency services.
3. Energy Efficiency: Is your furnace more than 10 years old? Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace to reduce energy costs and minimize environmental impact.
   
   Your new system could qualify for a $600 tax credit or a local rebate.

Call Your Puget Sound Heating Professionals

Following these DIY HVAC troubleshooting tips can save you money and help improve the comfort inside your Seattle, home. If you can’t resolve the issue yourself, it’s best to call a qualified HVAC technician from Ballard Natural Gas Services. We promise to arrive promptly and do the job right. Call us today for a free consultation at 206-784-8101 or request service online.