A cold home in the middle of winter is more than uncomfortable—it’s a crisis. If your furnace won’t ignite, you’re left scrambling for answers while the temperature drops. Before panic sets in, know that many ignition issues have simple fixes you can tackle yourself.
Check the Thermostat Settings First
Your thermostat could be the silent culprit. Ensure it’s set to “heat” mode and set five degrees above the room temperature.
Replace weak batteries or recalibrate programmable models. If the fan runs but no heat follows, the issue likely lies elsewhere.
Verify Your Gas Supply and Valve Positions
A blocked gas line starves your furnace of fuel. Confirm other gas appliances work, then check the furnace’s gas valve, which is usually a yellow handle parallel to the pipe. If you smell rotten eggs, evacuate and call emergency services immediately, as this signifies a leak.
Inspect the Pilot Light or Ignitor
Older furnaces rely on a standing pilot light that you can relight according to the manual if it’s out. Modern units use electronic ignitors. A failure to glow signals cracks or debris.
Ignitor failure often needs a professional replacement for optimal safety and accuracy.
Examine Air Filters for Blockages
Clogged filters restrict airflow, forcing shutdowns. Replace them if light can’t pass through heavy layers of debris.
Check them monthly during heavy use and replace them when necessary. Neglecting clogged filters can raise energy costs and strain your system.
Test Safety Switches and Sensors
A tripped float switch from clogged condensate drains halts ignition. Clear standing water and clean the drain line. Gently clean dirty flame sensors and avoid bending them.
Reset Circuit Breakers and Power
Check if the furnace’s breaker tripped. Flip it back on but if it trips again, stop—this signals deeper issues. Ensure the furnace’s red power switch is on and reset internal controls by unplugging it briefly.
Clear Vents and Exhaust Pathways
Blocked vents trigger safety shutdowns. Remove snow, ice, or debris from outdoor exhausts. Keep vents unobstructed from furniture or other large objects.
Know When To Call a Professional
If troubleshooting doesn’t resolve your ignition issues, stop. Repeated DIY attempts can damage components or void warranties. Issues like faulty gas valves, cracked heat exchangers, or wiring problems require expert diagnosis and repair.
Trust A-Perfect Climate for Reliable Furnace Repairs
A furnace that won’t ignite can disrupt your comfort and safety, but prompt action often restores heat quickly. At A-Perfect Climate, we specialize in diagnosing ignition failures, from pilot light issues to complex electrical faults. Our certified technicians serve the Chicago area with same-day repairs and transparent pricing.
We prioritize your safety, offering thorough inspections of gas lines, carbon monoxide detectors, and heat exchangers. Whether your furnace needs a simple filter replacement or a new ignitor, we’ll get your system running efficiently.
If your furnace won’t ignite, trust A-Perfect Climate’s expert team. Call (630) 691-8380 now for fast, dependable service that brings back the heat.
