Furnace and heating repair in Poway
Furnace not heating? Call (858) 898-5145 to reach a local heating repair contractor in Poway. Describe what the furnace is doing, and they can find the cause and explain the fix before starting work.
If you smell gas, leave first
If you smell gas (a rotten-egg odor) near the furnace, don’t switch anything on or off. Leave the house and call SDG&E or 911 from outside. Once the gas issue is handled, a heating contractor can repair the furnace.
Common furnace problems
Dirty flame sensor
The flame sensor confirms the burners are lit. When it gets coated, the furnace lights and then shuts off within seconds, over and over. Cleaning or replacing it is a routine repair.
Failed igniter
Most modern furnaces use a hot surface igniter instead of a pilot light. Igniters are fragile and wear out, and when one fails the furnace tries to start but never lights.
Limit switch tripping
The limit switch shuts the burners off if the furnace gets too hot, which usually means poor airflow from a clogged filter or blocked vents. Fix the airflow and the switch often stops tripping.
Blower motor or capacitor
If the burners light but little air comes out of the vents, the blower motor or its capacitor may be failing.
Thermostat issues
A thermostat set to Cool, dead batteries or a wiring fault can look like a broken furnace.
Quick checks
- Make sure the thermostat is on Heat and set above room temperature.
- Check that the furnace power switch (it looks like a light switch near the unit) is on.
- Look at the breaker panel for a tripped furnace breaker.
- Replace a dirty air filter.
- Make sure the furnace panel door is fully closed; many furnaces won’t run with it open.
If the furnace is old and repairs keep adding up, read about furnace replacement in Poway.
FAQ
Common questions
Straight answers to what Poway homeowners ask most. Still unsure? Call (858) 898-5145.
Why does my furnace turn on and then shut off?
A dirty flame sensor is the most common cause. Overheating from a clogged filter, which trips the limit switch, is another. Replace the filter first; if it keeps happening, call a technician.
Why is my furnace blowing cold air?
Check that the thermostat is on Heat and not set to Fan On. If it is, the furnace may not be lighting because of a failed igniter, a dirty flame sensor or a gas supply problem.
What should I do if I smell gas?
Leave the house without switching anything on or off, and call SDG&E or 911 from outside. Don’t try to find the leak yourself.
Is it worth repairing an old furnace?
Common repairs such as an igniter, flame sensor or capacitor are usually worth it. If the furnace is older and needs a major part like the heat exchanger, compare repair with replacement.
Furnace giving you trouble?
Call to reach a local heating repair contractor in Poway.