No Heat? 5 Things to Check Yourself

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No Heat? 5 Things to Check Yourself

man wearing jacket inside because there's no heat at home

“The weather outside is frightful.” That’s when you’re glad you had your central heating system in New Jersey checked and serviced in the autumn.

It’s a good feeling to know that it may be rainy, freezing, blizzardy, windy horrible weather outside, but that you’ve got your own comfortable ‘weather’ inside.

But… what if you can tell that there’s something wrong with your furnace? Maybe you can hear the thermostat click, the furnace starts up, you’re all ready for some toasty warm air, and then… it just shuts down. Or maybe you wake up and you can see your breath. Not good.

But don’t worry! Mark Lindsay and Son Plumbing & Heating has you covered! Here are 5 things that you should check before calling one of our trusted HVAC contractors in West Milford. Of course if you have any questions, or still need help, don’t hesitate to give us a call!

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1. Check Your Thermostat Settings

Start with the most straightforward step—your thermostat. Incorrect settings are often the culprit.

Is the thermostat set to “Heat”? Double-check that it’s not set to “Cool” or “Off.”
Is the temperature set correctly? Ensure the thermostat is set to a temperature higher than the current room temperature.
Inspect for power issues: If your thermostat is digital and the display is blank, replace the batteries or confirm it has power.

✅ Quick Tip: For programmable or smart thermostats, reset them to factory settings and see if that resolves the problem.

2. Inspect the Furnace Air Filter

A clogged air filter can restrict airflow, overheat your West Milford furnace, and shut down the heating system.

Locate your furnace filter—this is typically near the blower compartment.
Check the filter for dust buildup. If it looks dirty, replace it with a clean one.
How often should you change it? During winter months, it’s recommended to replace the filter every 1-3 months for optimal performance.

✅ Why this matters: A clean air filter not only helps your furnace function properly but also improves indoor air quality.

3. Ensure the Furnace Has Power

If your heating system isn’t turning on, it may not be receiving power.

Check your circuit breaker: Go to the electrical panel and look for any tripped breakers related to the furnace. Reset if necessary.
Verify the furnace power switch: Near the furnace, there’s usually an on/off switch. Make sure it’s in the “On” position.

✅ Safety Reminder: If the breaker trips repeatedly, there may be an electrical issue requiring professional attention.

4. Inspect the Pilot Light or Ignition System

For gas furnaces, the pilot light or ignition system is crucial.

Older systems: If your furnace has a pilot light, check to see if it’s lit. If not, follow your furnace’s manual for safe relighting instructions.
Modern systems: Newer furnaces use electronic ignition. If you hear clicking but no ignition, there may be a problem with the igniter.

5. Check Your Fuel Supply

For oil or propane systems, a lack of fuel can stop your heating system from functioning.

Oil tanks: Check the fuel gauge on your tank to ensure it isn’t empty.
Propane systems: Verify the valve is open, and you have enough propane.

✅ Pro Tip: Schedule regular fuel deliveries to avoid running out unexpectedly during cold weather.

When to Call a Heating Professional

If you’ve worked through these steps and still have no heat, it’s time to call an HVAC professional. Issues like malfunctioning components, faulty wiring, or broken parts may require expert diagnostics and repair.

No Heat Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my furnace running but not blowing hot air?

This could indicate a dirty air filter, blocked vents, or a problem with the blower motor.

How often should I schedule furnace maintenance?

Schedule professional furnace maintenance annually—ideally before the heating season begins—to ensure your system runs efficiently.

What’s the typical lifespan of a furnace?

With proper maintenance, most furnaces last between 15-20 years.

Why does my furnace keep turning on and off frequently?

This issue, known as short cycling, can be caused by a dirty air filter, a malfunctioning thermostat, or an oversized furnace. Start by replacing the air filter and checking the thermostat settings. If the issue persists, it may require professional attention to prevent damage to your furnace.

What should I do if my furnace makes strange noises?

Unusual sounds like banging, screeching, or rattling often indicate an issue:
– Banging: Could signal delayed ignition or expanding ducts.
– Screeching: Likely a worn-out blower belt or motor bearings.
– Rattling: May mean loose panels or components.

If you hear these noises, turn off the furnace and call our HVAC technicians to avoid further damage.

How can I tell if my furnace needs to be replaced?

Consider replacing your furnace if you notice these signs:
– Age: Furnaces typically last 15-20 years.
– Rising energy bills: Older, inefficient furnaces consume more energy.
– Frequent repairs: If repair costs are adding up, investing in a new unit may save money long-term.
– Uneven heating: If some rooms are colder than others, your furnace may be struggling.

A professional HVAC inspection from the Mark Lindsay team can confirm whether repair or replacement is the better option. Just give us a call!

West Milford Heating Pros Here to Help

If you’ve checked everything mentioned above and you still have no heat, rely on Mark Lindsay and Son Plumbing & Heating. Our team of experts can diagnose and repair any heating problem to keep your home cozy and warm. We’re committed to ensuring your satisfaction and restoring warmth to your home.

Call us now and we’ll be there soon!

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