Why does my furnace keep shutting off?

There is typically a sense of dread when you realize something isn’t quite right with your furnace. You’re resting at home and you hear your furnace is endlessly kicking in and shutting off. However, before you panic, there are some things you can check when you realize your furnace seems to be shutting off a lot more than it should be.

1. Check the air filter in your furnace—You may think that air filters are only used to help keep the air inside your home cleaner, but air filters also support keeping your system clean. Your first step when you recognize a concern with your system should be checking your air filter to see if it needs to be replaced. If it’s clogged or dirty, it can make it difficult for air to flow over the heat exchanger.
2. Look at your thermostat—For several of us, we may have set our thermostats several months ago and forgot about it, even more so when using a smart or programmable thermostat. Look at your thermostat to see if anything unusual is occurring or if it may need new batteries. The site of your thermostat could make a difference, as well. If it’s located in a place that’s usually hotter than the rest of your home, such as in direct sunlight or by another heat source, it could be falsely assuming your home reached the desired temperature.
3. Check out your windows for proper insulation—If your home doesn’t have appropriate insulation, your furnace is likely to shut off more frequently. Walk around your home and check the windows to ensure they are all closed and take a look at the seals around your windows for any drafts or cold air coming into the house.

While you can review these issues by yourself, if issues still continue after these checks, it might be time to call in the pros. When your furnace is consistently turning off, it can lead to unnecessary work and stress on your system that could lead to more costly repairs or even a replacement.

Our experts are willing to help you assess the situation and pinpoint the root of the cause, so you can enjoy the rest of the season with the best indoor comfort. If you have questions, give us a call at 919-578-4329 or check out our online scheduler to conveniently request an appointment.