When your furnace isn’t working properly, it can be a huge inconvenience. Not only is it uncomfortable to be without heat in the middle of winter, but it can also be expensive to have to call a professional to come and fix the problem. If you’re having furnace troubles, try these 5 troubleshooting tips to get your heating system back up and running.

1. Check the thermostat to make sure it’s set to “heat” and turned up high enough.

If the furnace isn’t turning on, the first thing you should check is the thermostat. Make sure it’s set to “heat” and that the temperature is turned up high enough so that the furnace will turn on.

If you’re not sure how to do this, consult your furnace’s owner’s manual or call a furnace technician for help.

If the furnace still isn’t turning on, there may be a problem with the thermostat itself, in which case you’ll need to call a professional to repair it.

2. Change the air filter if it looks dirty or clogged.

One of the most common reasons for a furnace to stop working is a dirty or clogged air filter. If the furnace can’t get enough air, it will overheat and shut down.

To check the air filter, remove it from the furnace and hold it up to the light. If you can’t see through it, it’s probably time to replace it.

If the air filter is dirty or clogged, change it and see if that fixes the problem. If the furnace still isn’t working, there may be a more serious problem that needs to be addressed by a professional.

3. Inspect the furnace ducts for any leaks or obstructions.

Another common problem with furnaces is leaks or obstructions in the furnace ducts. If the furnace can’t get enough air, it will overheat and shut down.

To check for leaks or obstructions, inspect the furnace ducts for any holes, tears, or other damage. If you find any damage, have it repaired by a furnace technician.

4. Make sure the furnace pilot light is on and burning brightly.

Another common problem with furnaces is a pilot light that isn’t burning brightly. If the furnace can’t get enough air, it will overheat and shut down.

To check the pilot light, remove the furnace cover and look for the pilot light. If it’s off or doesn’t seem to be burning brightly, turn it on and see if that fixes the problem.

5. Call a professional if you’ve tried all of these troubleshooting tips and your furnace still isn’t working properly.

If you’ve tried all of these troubleshooting tips and your furnace still isn’t working, it’s time to call a professional. There may be a more serious problem that needs to be addressed by a furnace technician.