My furnace is not working: 7 checks before calling

You wake up one winter morning and realize that your house is cold. Your furnace is no longer working. Before you panic, know that there are several common issues that can be resolved in a few minutes by yourself.

This article takes you through seven simple checks that any homeowner can safely complete. You will quickly know if the problem requires a professional or if you can fix it yourself.

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Key points to remember

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• The majority of breakdowns are caused by simple problems like a poorly adjusted thermostat or a clogged filter
• Check the circuit breaker and switch can solve multiple failures without professional intervention
• A clogged filter forces your furnace to work harder and may cause it to stop
• These checks take a short time and can save service fees
• The smell of gas requires immediate evacuation and a 911 call

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Check 1: Is the thermostat set correctly?

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It is the number one cause of unnecessary calls. Make sure your thermostat is set to heat mode, set to a temperature higher than the current temperature, and that the fan is set to auto.

If your thermostat works with batteries, replace them. Weak batteries prevent communication with the furnace. Wait a few minutes to see if it restarts.

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Check 2: Is the circuit breaker tripped?

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Check your electrical panel. The furnace circuit breaker should be firmly in the “on” position. If the circuit breaker is triggered, switch it back to the on position.

Important : if it goes off again immediately, don't insist. This indicates an electrical problem that requires a professional.

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Check 3: Is the emergency switch activated?

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Most furnaces have an emergency switch near the appliance, on the adjacent wall. It looks like a light switch, sometimes in a red housing. This switch may be accidentally turned off during cleaning. Make sure it is in the “on” position.

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Check 4: Is the air filter clogged?

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According to Natural Resources Canada, heating represents 61% of a household's energy consumption. One dirty filter reduces airflow and may shut down the unit.

If you can't see the light through the filter, change it. The best practice is to replace regularly during the heating season, more often if you have animals.

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Check 5: Is the panel door closed?

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Modern furnaces have a safety device which prevents operation if the panel is not securely closed. Verify that the panel is fully engaged and that the screws are not loose.

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Check 6: Is there water near the furnace?

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High-efficiency furnaces produce condensation. If you see water, turn off the furnace immediately. Possible causes : frozen pipe, cracked tank or obstructed drain. Sponge the water and call a technician.

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Check 7: Is the outside exit clear?

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In winter in Quebec snow and ice are blocking often the drain pipes. Go outside and check that the white PVC pipes are not obstructed by snow or bird nests. Get out delicately.

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When to call a professional

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What to do now

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If your checks resolved the issue, watch your furnace in the hours that follow. If it's working normally, you've fixed the situation.

If the problem persists or if you notice gas odours, smoke, or noises, contact a certified technician. According to the Régie du Bâtiment du Québec, only certified technicians can repair heating systems.

For gas emergencies: 1-800-361-8003 Energy or 911.

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Preventive habits to adopt

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The best way to avoid an outage in winter is preventive maintenance. Have your furnace inspected by a certified technician before each heating season. During the winter, Replace the filter regularly, keep the area clear, and clean the exits after each storm. A sudden increase in bills may indicate a problem.

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Make the right decisions for your comfort

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A furnace that doesn't work doesn't always mean expensive repairs. These seven checks often allow you to fix the problem quickly. You keep control of your heating and save time and money. Even if a professional intervenes in the end, you will have eliminated the common causes.

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Need help with your heating system?

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If your checks did not resolve the issue, the team at Ventiref is at your service. Our certified technicians intervene quickly to diagnose and repair all types of furnaces.

Contact us for an intervention.