Why Won’t My Furnace Stay On?
There’s nothing worse than settling in for a cozy winter evening, only to realize that your furnace is constantly shutting off and on, never quite getting your home as warm as you would like. A struggling furnace also uses extra energy, and the increase in your utility bills can feel like adding insult to injury.
At Lancaster Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical, we’ve seen this issue countless times and can help your heating system run smoothly again. Let’s dive into what might be happening and how we can help.
What’s Happening When Your Furnace Won’t Stay On?
If your furnace turns on and off constantly, you may be dealing with a problem known as “short-cycling.” Short-cycling happens when your furnace shuts down before reaching the set temperature, causing it to startup repeatedly.
This problem can stem from mechanical issues, improper maintenance, or even an oversized furnace. Furnace short-cycling makes your home uncomfortable, and it can lead to higher energy bills and increased wear on your heating system.
Common Causes of a Furnace That Won’t Stay Lit
Several common factors could be to blame for a furnace that won’t stay on:
- Dirty flame sensor: The flame sensor ensures the gas is safely burned in your furnace. When covered in dirt or grime, it can fail to detect the flame, causing the furnace to shut off for safety reasons.
- Clogged furnace filter: A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and shut down prematurely.
- Thermostat issues: Sometimes, the thermostat itself can be the problem, either due to faulty wiring or incorrect settings, causing your furnace to cycle on and off inconsistently.
- Blocked exhaust vent: If the exhaust vent is obstructed, it can prevent the furnace from properly venting gasses, leading to a safety shutdown.
- Defective part: A malfunctioning component, such as the ignition board, flame sensor, light switch, thermocouple, fan limiter, or draft inducer fan, can prevent your furnace from staying on.
What To Do If Your Furnace Won’t Stay On
Before you start panicking and researching new furnace prices, there are a few things you can try to troubleshoot the problem yourself:
- Check and replace the filter: The most common fix is to check your air filter. If it’s clogged, replace it to improve airflow and prevent the furnace from overheating.
- Clean the flame sensor: Carefully clean the flame sensor with a soft cloth to remove dirt or grime. Make sure you turn off the power to your furnace first.
- Inspect the thermostat: Double-check that your thermostat settings are correct. You may need to replace the batteries or recalibrate the thermostat.
- Check for blocked vents: Ensure all vents are clear of obstructions, such as furniture or curtains, to allow for proper airflow and prevent overheating.
When To Call a Heating Technician
While some furnace issues can be solved with basic troubleshooting, persistent problems or more complex mechanical issues should be left to a professional. If your furnace continues to short-cycle, has wiring problems, or shows signs of overheating, it’s time to call in a licensed HVAC technician for heating repair.
At Lancaster Plumbing & Heating, our skilled team can diagnose and fix any underlying issues to get your furnace running safely and efficiently. Don’t let a minor issue become a major repair — contact a heating professional at the first sign of trouble.
Need Help With Your Furnace? Call Us Today
If your heater won’t stay on and you’re tired of dealing with inconsistent heating, don’t hesitate to call Lancaster Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical.
With over a century of experience serving Pennsylvania homeowners, we proudly meet your needs with upfront pricing, no overtime charges, and licensed, background-checked technicians. Schedule your furnace repair with our team today and restore comfort to your home.
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