If you’re experiencing any heating issues and can’t resolve them with these tips, don’t hesitate to call Thomas Hoffmann Air Conditioning & Heating.
When the temperatures in the St. Louis area plummet during a winter cold snap, the last thing you want is for your heating system to stop working. No heat in your home can quickly become uncomfortable and even dangerous, especially with subzero wind chills.
While Thomas Hoffmann Air Conditioning & Heating is always here to help with fast, reliable heating repairs, you can take a few steps to troubleshoot your system before making that call.
8 Things You Can Check
1. Is Your Thermostat Set Correctly?
It may seem obvious, but a thermostat set incorrectly is one of the most common reasons a furnace or heating system isn’t working. Here’s what to check:
- Set to Heat Mode: Ensure the thermostat is set to “heat” rather than “off” or “cool.”
- Temperature Setting: Ensure the temperature is higher than the current indoor temperature.
- Batteries: If your thermostat is battery-powered, weak or dead batteries could cause it to malfunction. Replace the batteries and see if the system turns on.
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2. Check Your Furnace Power Switch
Believe it or not, your furnace has its own power switch, which might have been accidentally turned off.
- Locate the furnace power switch—it often looks like a standard light switch and is typically located near the furnace or on the wall beside it.
- Ensure the switch is in the “on” position.
If your furnace still doesn’t turn on, it’s time to check your circuit breaker.
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3. Inspect Your Circuit Breaker
Heating systems often draw a significant amount of power, and a tripped breaker is a common issue during cold snaps when your system is working overtime.
- Open your home’s electrical panel and look for the circuit labeled “furnace” or “HVAC.”
- If the breaker is tripped, switch it all the way to the “off” position, then back to “on.”
If the breaker trips again, there may be a deeper electrical issue, and you’ll need professional assistance.
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4. Check the Furnace Filter
A dirty air filter can block airflow, causing your furnace to overheat and shut down as a safety precaution. This is especially common during extreme cold when your system runs constantly.
- Locate your furnace’s air filter (usually near the intake vent or inside the furnace cabinet).
- If the filter is clogged with dust and debris, replace it with a clean one.
- Be sure to use the correct filter size for your system.
Tip: Regularly replacing your air filter every 1-3 months can prevent many furnace issues.
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5. Is Your Pilot Light or Ignition System Working?
For gas furnaces, the problem could be with your pilot light or electronic ignition system:
- Older Furnaces: Check whether the pilot light is lit. Follow your furnace manual’s instructions to relight it if it’s out. If it doesn’t stay lit, it may be a sign of a more serious problem, such as a faulty thermocouple.
- Newer Furnaces: Modern systems use electronic igniters, which can sometimes fail. If the system isn’t igniting, calling in the experts is best.
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6. Inspect the Air Vents
Blocked air vents can restrict airflow and cause your heating system to shut down or work inefficiently.
- Walk around your home and check that furniture, rugs, or curtains block none of the supply or return vents.
- Ensure vents are fully open to allow warm air to circulate.
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7. Look for Frozen or Clogged Condensate Lines
During frigid St. Louis winters, condensation from high-efficiency furnaces can freeze in the condensate drain line, causing the system to shut down.
- Look for any visible ice or blockages in the drain line.
- You can gently thaw a frozen line using warm (not hot) water or a hairdryer.
If the line is still clogged or frozen, it’s time to call in a professional to avoid further damage.
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8. Check for Error Codes
Many modern furnaces are equipped with diagnostic error lights.
- Check your furnace control board for blinking lights or error codes.
- Refer to your owner’s manual to interpret the code. It can give you an idea of what’s wrong and help your technician diagnose the problem faster.
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When to Call Thomas Hoffmann Air Conditioning & Heating
If you’ve gone through this checklist and your heating system is still not working, it’s time to call in the experts at Thomas Hoffmann Air Conditioning & Heating. Our team provides fast, reliable furnace repair services throughout St. Louis, including Affton, Chesterfield, Webster Groves, and surrounding communities.
We understand the urgency of getting your home warm again, especially during a cold snap. With years of experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction, we’ll have your system up and running quickly.