Why did your heater suddenly stop working?

There are a few things you can do to try to troubleshoot your malfunctioning heater on your own:

• Check the thermostat setting: The minor issue might be that the heater is turned off or set to a temperature that’s too low. So, the first step you should check is the programmable thermostat which might be accidentally turned off, set too low, or set to “cool” instead of “heat.”
• Replacement of furnace filter: Filters get dirty and clogged over time, which can cause furnaces to perform less efficiently. If it’s been a while since you’ve replaced your furnace filter, that might be the problem. A new filter usually does the trick and only takes a few minutes to replace it monthly.
• Inspect and clean vents: Another potential issue is that the vents or ductwork might be blocked, preventing heat from circulating properly. Inspect all of the vents in your home to make sure they’re clear, and clean them if necessary. The same goes for the ductwork. If it’s dirty, it will need to be cleaned by a professional.
• Turn on the gas line: If your heater operates on gas, make sure the gas line is turned on. The meter is usually close to the furnace. You can trace the pipe that supplies gas to the furnace back to find it. If there’s a handle on the pipeline, turn it so that it’s parallel to the pipe.
• Check the pilot light: If your heater has a pilot light and it’s not currently on, you’ll need to relight it. You can find the instructions on how to do so in your heater’s manual.
• Clear the drain lines: If your heater has a condensate drain line, it might be clogged. It can cause the heater to shut down. To clear the line, simply remove the blockage and flush it out with water.

If you’ve tried all of these troubleshooting tips and your heater is still not working properly, it’s time to call a professional. Econo West Heating Air & Plumbing can help with furnace repair in Antelope Valley, CA, and surrounding areas.