When the temperatures dip and your furnace decides not to cooperate, it’s enough to make any Littleton homeowner shiver. But sometimes, the problem isn’t as big as it seems. Before you pick up the phone to call for professional help, there are a few simple steps you can take to troubleshoot your heating system.
Think of these as first-aid tricks for your furnace—quick and easy things that might just get the warm air flowing again.
1. Double-Check Your Thermostat
It might sound almost too simple, but step one is to inspect the thermostat. Is it set to “heat” and adjusted to a comfortable temperature? If it’s a programmable or smart thermostat, check the schedule settings or battery power. It could be as minor as a dead battery causing the confusion. A little tweak here might be all you need to get your home cozy again.
2. Inspect Your Air Filter
Littleton’s dry, dusty air can clog up an air filter faster than you’d think, especially if your furnace has been running nonstop. A dirty filter can restrict airflow, keeping your furnace from distributing warm air efficiently. Pull the filter out and give it a quick look. If it’s covered in dust and debris, swap it out for a clean one—it’s a simple fix that can have a major impact.
3. Check Your Circuit Breaker
Furnaces need electricity, even if they run on gas. Sometimes, a breaker might trip, cutting power to your system. Head over to your breaker box and see if any switches are flipped. If you find one, reset it and try turning the furnace on again. Just be sure to keep an eye on the breaker. If it trips repeatedly, that’s a sign of a bigger issue.
4. Ensure Vents and Registers Are Clear
It’s surprising how often this one gets overlooked. Take a stroll around your home and make sure no furniture, rugs, or other objects are blocking your vents and registers. Blocked airflow can make it seem like your furnace isn’t doing its job when really, it’s just struggling to push air through a barricade.
5. Press the Furnace Reset Button
Most modern furnaces have a reset button, usually located near the blower motor. This button can clear minor issues, such as an interrupted power supply. Press it once and see if the system kicks back on. Be patient—it might take a moment for the furnace to restart. Just don’t hit it repeatedly, as that could damage your system.
When It’s Time to Call in the Experts
If you’ve tried these steps and your furnace still isn’t blowing warm air, you might be dealing with a bigger issue like a faulty igniter or a malfunctioning component. That’s when it’s time to call in a trusted local team to take a closer look. Here in Littleton, we know the importance of a reliable, well-running furnace during Colorado’s chilly winters. Sometimes, a professional’s touch is just what your system needs.
For over 50 years, Southwest Heating & Cooling has been the trusted choice for homeowners across Littleton, Highlands Ranch, Centennial, Castle Rock, Lakewood, Englewood, Parker, and South Denver (service areas). Call Southwest Heating & Cooling today at 303-791-2679 or schedule a service and experience comfort you can count on. You won’t find better service anywhere else.