Steps to Troubleshoot Your Furnace

With winter on the horizon and the cool air here, it is time we start turning on our heating systems. There is nothing worse than spending the coldest night of the year with no heat (and risk secondary problems). If you do run into the problem of your furnace not turning on, here are some steps you can take:

• Check the Circuit Breakers – Even if your furnace runs on propane or heating oil, some of the components may require electricity. Ensure all of the switches on the panel are set to “on”. Some units have circuit breakers on the furnace itself or a light switch that controls the power to the unit.
  Note: Only reset the breaker once. If it continues to trip, you run the risk of damaging your system and it is time to call Fsi Oil and Propane.
• Check Your Thermostat – Some thermostats will lose their programming and reset if they lose power. If this is the case, it may be time to change your batteries.
• Check the Condensate Pan of Your Furnace – Condensate Pans (Drain Pans) accumulate water that has been removed from the air.
  • If your pan has a drain, check if the drain is clear.
  • If your pan has a pump, these types of pans have float switches. Check to see if the switch is in the “down” position. If it is “up”, this is likely the cause and your furnace will not turn on.
• Check Your Air Filter – A clogged air filter could cause your furnace to turn off.
• Check Your Pilot Light – Many modern furnaces will not turn on if your pilot light is out. This is to help avoid pumping massive amounts of gas or propane into your home.
• Check Your Fuel Supply – Check other appliances in your home, such as your stove. If this is not working either, then you are possibly low on fuel.

If all else fails, please contact us immediately!