Unexpected furnace shutdowns can be frightening. Especially during winter, you may be concerned about getting left in the cold. Before you panic, however, there are a few steps you can take to rule out common problems. R&R Heating and Cooling, with service areas near you in Grand Rapids, MI, and beyond, provides a DIY furnace inspection checklist to follow before you call your heating professional.
Key Takeaways
- Furnace self-inspections help you identify issues that can be fixed at home. They also provide your repair professional with more information about your situation.
- Rule out common issues by checking the thermostat, air filter, breaker, and pilot light.
- If the thermostat, air filter, breaker, or pilot light is not responsible for your problem, then call a professional to ensure a safe and reliable repair.
Why Perform a Self-Inspection?
Before getting into the step-by-step, you might wonder why a self-inspection is important. Attempting DIY furnace repairs can cause more damage than you solve. If you plan to call a repair professional, then why not simply leave the inspection to the professional?
The benefits of a self-inspection are twofold. First, it helps you confirm that a professional is necessary. Some simple fixes can be performed at home, helping you cut costs and save for more serious concerns. Second, if you do require a professional, your DIY inspection provides the technician with more information beforehand. When you call a furnace repair company, tell us the results of your self-inspection. This helps us understand your problem and come equipped to handle your unique situation.
Step-by-Step Furnace Inspection Checklist
To perform an effective furnace self-inspection, work methodically. Check one component at a time to determine whether it is working effectively. The following should be your first stops after noticing a new problem with your heating:
Check the Thermostat
Before addressing the furnace itself, look at the thermostat. Many common complaints aren’t problems with the furnace at all and are actually caused by the thermostat. Make sure your thermostat is correctly programmed and that the batteries are fresh. A smart thermostat may also report issues with your furnace, such as an old air filter or an electrical issue.
Inspect the Air Filter
After ruling out a thermostat problem, check your air filter. Your air filter is vital for removing dust, pet dander, pollen, and other allergens from the air in your home. Over time, however, filters get dirty and clogged with debris. A clogged filter forces your heater to work harder than it should. Replacing it is one furnace maintenance task that you can perform without a professional.
Look at Circuit Breakers
Next, you should check your breaker box. Breakers automatically flip to close your circuits if they detect high energy levels. This protects your electrical system against damage caused by power surges. If the breaker for your furnace has flipped, then the problem is likely electrical. This helps you and your technicians know where to look when diagnosing the cause.
Test the Pilot Light
If you own a gas furnace, then check your furnace pilot light. This is a candle-sized flame that is constantly lit to ignite the main burner. If the pilot light goes out, then the furnace cannot ignite the burner. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for relighting the pilot. This usually involves turning the gas knob to the “pilot” setting before using a long lighter to reignite the flame.
When to Call a Professional for Furnace Repairs
If you haven’t found the problem after exhausting DIY inspection options, then it’s time to contact a furnace repair professional. An experienced furnace technician can expect the rest of your equipment to identify the fault, then make repairs. Do not attempt to fix your furnace by yourself. Not only can this be dangerous, but it can also damage your equipment further, leading to more expensive repairs. A professional will save money in the long run with a safer, more reliable fix.
Find Expert Furnace Repair Services Near You in Grand Rapids, MI
If you need furnace repairs, look no further than R&R Heating and Cooling. We serve Grand Rapids, Michigan, and beyond with prompt response, upfront pricing, and high-quality craftsmanship for all types of heating and cooling issues, including ductwork. Contact us today to learn more about HVAC repair and maintenance or to ask questions about our furnace inspection checklist.
Furnace Maintenance FAQ
What should I check before calling for furnace repair?
Before calling for furnace repair, you should check your thermostat, air filter, breaker, and pilot light.
Can I fix furnace problems myself?
You should not attempt to fix furnace problems by yourself. Always call a professional to correct problems safely and accurately.
What tools do I need for furnace self-inspection?
To perform a furnace self-inspection, you need clear eyesight, copies of your furnace and thermostat manuals, and a long lighter.
