Signs Your Furnace is Not Working Properly

There are almost always signs that the furnace is not working properly prior to the furnace stopping.

A furnace does not usually stop working for no apparent reason. There are almost always signs that the furnace is not working properly prior to the furnace stopping.

How can I tell if my furnace is about to quit?

Be on the look out for and aware of the eight (8) following signs:

• Observe a yellow or wavering flame
• The pilot light goes out a lot (note not all furnaces have standing pilot lights, refer to your manual if you are unsure)
• Furnace is producing too much or not enough heat
• Delayed ignition (mid- and high-efficiency furnaces have an intentional delay)
• There is excessive soot or corrosion on the furnace or vent system (white, brown or black streaks)
• Signs that the flame has ‘rolled-out’ of the furnace — scorch marks by the door or other opening
• Presence of a lingering or intermittent odour (“rotten egg” smell or a sharp odour that may can make the eyes sting)
• Symptoms of the presence of carbon monoxide: nausea, headaches, lethargy or other flu-like symptoms.

What do I do if my pilot light goes out?

If your pilot light goes out, you can relight it by following manufacturer’s instructions that are usually located on a metal plate near the furnace burner to gas controls. Most natural gas appliances with pilot lights are designed to shut off automatically if the pilot goes out (Many newer models of gas furnaces do not have a standing pilot light.

If you are unable to get it relit, turn off the manual valve in the natural gas supply and call a licensed gas contractor.

Need to have your furnace repaired in your Vancouver home?

Ashton Service Group employs trained and certified gas fitters to install and service natural gas equipment. If you need help with your furnace, please call us or schedule an appointment online!

We are listed with Fortis BC’s Trade Ally Network of approved contractors.