What You Can Do About It
When your oil furnace isn’t turning on, it can be frustrating, especially during cold weather. Understanding the possible causes and knowing how to address the issue can help you get your heating system back up and running quickly. At Family Heating and Cooling, we specialize in oil furnace repairs and maintenance across New Bedford, Taunton, Dartmouth, and other surrounding areas. In this blog, we’ll go over some of the common reasons why your oil furnace isn’t working and how to troubleshoot these problems.
Common Reasons Your Oil Furnace Isn’t Turning On
No Fuel in the Tank
The first thing you should check if your oil furnace isn’t turning on is whether the fuel tank is empty. Running out of oil is a common reason for an oil furnace to stop working. Ensure that there’s enough fuel in your tank to run the furnace. If the tank is full and the furnace still isn’t turning on, other issues may be at play.
Clogged Oil Filter
Over time, the oil filter in your furnace can become clogged with dirt and debris, causing the furnace to stop functioning properly. A clogged filter can restrict oil flow and prevent the furnace from firing up. Regular maintenance and replacing the filter can help prevent this issue. For comprehensive oil furnace maintenance in Somerset or Fall River, reach out to Family Heating and Cooling.
Thermostat Issues
If your thermostat isn’t working properly, your oil furnace may not turn on. Check to ensure that your thermostat is set to the correct temperature and is functioning correctly. Sometimes, a malfunctioning thermostat may need to be recalibrated or replaced. If your thermostat is outdated or malfunctioning, Family Heating and Cooling can help with professional thermostat replacement services.
Dirty or Faulty Ignition System
The ignition system in your oil furnace is responsible for lighting the oil burner. If there’s a problem with the ignition system, such as a dirty ignition electrode or a faulty igniter, the furnace may not turn on. Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure your ignition system is in good condition.
Blocked or Dirty Air Filter
A dirty air filter can also prevent your oil furnace from turning on. When the filter becomes clogged with dust and debris, it can restrict airflow, causing the furnace to overheat or shut down. Replacing the air filter regularly is an easy and effective way to maintain your furnace’s efficiency.
Faulty Pump or Motor
If the pump or motor is malfunctioning, the oil may not be delivered to the burner, which means your furnace won’t turn on. A broken pump or motor requires professional repair, so it’s essential to contact a trusted HVAC expert like Family Heating and Cooling for this issue.
How Family Heating and Cooling Can Help
If your oil furnace isn’t turning on, troubleshooting the problem can sometimes be tricky. Luckily, the experts at Family Heating and Cooling are here to help! Our HVAC specialists are trained to handle a wide range of furnace issues, including fuel delivery problems, ignition issues, thermostat malfunctions, and more. We offer expert furnace repair and maintenance services in areas like Fairhaven, Westport, Raynham, Acushnet, and more.
At Family Heating and Cooling, we provide comprehensive heating services to ensure that your oil furnace operates efficiently and reliably throughout the colder months. If you’re experiencing problems with your furnace or need maintenance, don’t hesitate to contact us for fast and reliable service.
Why Regular Maintenance Matters
Regular maintenance is essential for the smooth operation of your oil furnace. Preventative care, such as changing the oil filter and cleaning the burner, can help avoid common problems like your oil furnace not turning on. Schedule your next furnace maintenance appointment with Family Heating and Cooling to ensure that your heating system runs at peak efficiency.
Contact Family Heating and Cooling for Furnace Repair Today
If you’re having trouble with your oil furnace not turning on, contact Family Heating and Cooling for expert repair and service. We provide affordable, high-quality furnace repair in Seekonk, Swansea, Dighton, and nearby areas. Whether you need a quick fix or regular maintenance, our team is ready to help. Call us today at (774) 264-3695 to schedule your furnace repair service!
FAQs
How do I reset my oil furnace?
To reset your oil furnace, locate the reset button, usually found on the burner or control panel. Press and hold the button for about 5-10 seconds, then release it. If the furnace still doesn’t start after resetting, there may be an underlying issue, such as a clogged filter or an ignition problem.
What would cause an oil furnace not to ignite?
An oil furnace may fail to ignite for several reasons, including a dirty ignition system, clogged oil filter, air in the oil lines, or a faulty nozzle. If the furnace isn’t starting, it’s important to check for these issues, as they can prevent the ignition system from working properly.
How do I force my furnace to start?
If your furnace isn’t starting, check that the thermostat is set to call for heat. If it is, you can try pressing the reset button on the oil burner. However, if the furnace doesn’t start after a reset, it could be a sign of a deeper issue, such as a problem with oil flow or ignition.
How do I troubleshoot my oil furnace?
Start troubleshooting by checking the fuel level in your tank and inspecting the oil filter for clogs. It’s also important to ensure the air filter isn’t clogged, as this can restrict airflow. If these aren’t the issue, the problem might lie with the ignition system or thermostat. For a thorough inspection and repair, you may need professional assistance.
Why does my thermostat click but my oil furnace doesn’t turn on?
If your thermostat clicks but the furnace doesn’t turn on, it could indicate a problem with the thermostat or the connection between the thermostat and the furnace. Issues such as a clogged filter or ignition system failure may also prevent the furnace from starting, even if the thermostat is working.
If you’re having trouble with your oil furnace not turning on or experiencing any other issues, don’t hesitate to contact Family Heating and Cooling for expert diagnostics and repair. We proudly serve Rehoboth, North Dartmouth, East Taunton, Assonet, East Freetown, and other nearby areas.
