{"id":1786,"date":"2025-12-01T11:00:00","date_gmt":"2025-12-01T16:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.collierscomfort.com\/blog\/?p=1786"},"modified":"2025-12-01T11:45:07","modified_gmt":"2025-12-01T16:45:07","slug":"what-to-do-if-your-furnace-stops-working","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.collierscomfort.com\/blog\/heating-service\/what-to-do-if-your-furnace-stops-working\/","title":{"rendered":"What to Do If Your Furnace Stops Working"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

When your furnace suddenly shuts down, we know how stressful and uncomfortable it can feel\u2014especially during an Indiana winter. If you ever find yourself searching for heating repair in Fort Wayne, <\/a>you\u2019re already taking the right first step toward restoring your comfort. At Collier\u2019s Comfort, we\u2019re here to walk you through what to do next.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

1. Check the Basics First<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Before assuming the worst, start with a few simple checks. These quick steps can save you time, stress, and even the cost of an unnecessary service call.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Make sure your thermostat is set correctly<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Switch it to heat, raise the temperature a few degrees, and ensure the display is working. Sometimes a low thermostat battery is all it takes to shut everything down.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Inspect your furnace switch<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Your furnace has its own power switch that resembles a light switch. If it was bumped or turned off accidentally, the furnace won\u2019t run. Flip it back to on and listen for activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Look for a tripped breaker<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Your furnace relies on electricity\u2014even gas furnaces. If the breaker tripped, reset it. If it trips again immediately, that\u2019s a sign you need a professional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

2. Check Your Air Filter<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A clogged or overly dirty air filter is one of the most common reasons a furnace stops working. If airflow is restricted, your system may overheat and shut down as a safety measure.
Remove the old filter, hold it up to a light, and replace it if you can\u2019t see through it. Restart your system after installing a clean filter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

3. Examine the Vents and Registers<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Blocked vents can cause temperature issues that force your furnace to work harder\u2014or shut off altogether. Make sure furniture, rugs, or d\u00e9cor are not covering your vents. Opening all registers, even in unused rooms, helps your system operate smoothly and safely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

4. Inspect the Pilot Light or Ignition System<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If you have an older furnace with a pilot light, make sure it\u2019s still lit. If it\u2019s out, follow the manufacturer\u2019s instructions to relight it\u2014only if this is recommended in the user manual. For furnaces with manual pilot lights, we still recommend hiring a professional to have the pilot light inspected.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

And for newer systems with electronic ignition, a failure could mean a faulty igniter, sensor issue, or control board problem. These components require professional handling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

5. Emergency Troubleshooting for No-Heat Situations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

If your furnace still won\u2019t run and the temperature is dropping quickly, here are a few additional steps you can take:<\/p>\n\n\n\n