Appointment Lookup
802-552-4364
Discover what the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) is and why it's crucial for assessing air conditioner efficiency.
Furnace Not Working
Common reasons for your furnace not working
The most common reasons for your furnace not working are thermostat issues, tripped circuit breaker or a dirty air filter.
35% of the time it's the Thermostat Issues
20% of the time it's the Tripped Circuit Breaker
18% of the time it's the Dirty Air Filter
27% of the time it's the Something else
Schedule your furnace repair now!
We can help! Our certified technicians repair all brands and models of furnaces. We can fix yours no matter where you bought it.
Chat
Loading scheduler options...
Furnace Not Working? We Can Help.
If your furnace won’t turn on, blows cold air, or stops heating properly, a few simple checks might solve the problem. Sears Home Services technicians repair all major furnace brands, but before you schedule service, try these quick troubleshooting steps for the most common causes.
3 Common Reasons a Furnace Stops Working
1. Thermostat issues
Make sure the thermostat is set to Heat and the temperature is above room temperature. Replace the batteries if it’s a battery-powered model. If the screen is blank or unresponsive, turn the circuit breaker for the furnace off and back on to reset it.
2. Tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse
If the furnace isn’t running at all, check your home’s breaker panel. Reset any tripped breakers or replace a blown fuse. If the breaker trips again soon after, there may be an electrical problem that needs professional repair.
Dirty air filter
A clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and shut off. Replace the filter if it looks dirty or hasn’t been changed in the past month. Once replaced, restore power and test the furnace.
Schedule Furnace Repair Service
If your furnace still isn’t working after these checks, it’s time to schedule professional furnace repair service. Sears Home Services can diagnose and repair heating problems quickly to keep your home comfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why won’t my furnace turn on?
A tripped breaker, blown fuse, or thermostat problem can stop your furnace from starting. Check those first before calling for service.
Why is my furnace blowing cold air?
A dirty filter or blocked vent can cause overheating and system shutdowns that leave only cold air blowing. Replace the filter and clear vents.
How often should I replace my furnace filter?
Replace standard filters every 1–3 months. High-efficiency filters may last longer but should be checked monthly during heavy use.
When should I call a professional for furnace repair?
If basic troubleshooting doesn’t fix the issue or you notice unusual noises, smells, or repeated shutdowns, schedule repair with Sears Home Services for expert help.
Repair HVAC Resources
Learn how an air filter works in your HVAC system and how to choose the right filter.
Improve indoor air quality and protect your family's health with HVAC maintenance, air purifiers, and natural solutions like plants and proper ventilation.
Wondering what it costs to replace an air conditioner in 2026? This guide explains average replacement pricing, SEER2 efficiency costs, and how to decide whether to repair or replace your AC system.
Glossary Terms
The 608 Certification, mandated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), is required for HVAC technicians to legally handle refrigerants. It ensures technicians understand refrigerant types, environmental impact, and proper handling techniques.
A compressor is a mechanical device that increases the pressure of a gas by reducing its volume, essential in various systems including refrigerators, air conditioners, and HVAC units for cooling and refrigeration processes.
A condenser is a component of HVAC and refrigeration systems, responsible for releasing absorbed heat from the refrigerant into the outside air or a water line, thus facilitating the cooling process.
A capacitor in an AC unit is an electrical component that stores and releases electrical energy to help start the motor and stabilize the voltage during operation.