When your furnace starts acting up, it’s natural to want to fix the problem yourself and avoid the cost of calling a professional technician. While there are some furnace issues that homeowners can safely troubleshoot and fix on their own, others are best left to a licensed HVAC technician. Attempting complex repairs without the proper knowledge and tools can lead to further damage, void your warranty, or even pose safety risks. LV Heating & Cooling will share what furnace repairs you can tackle yourself and which ones you should avoid.

What Heating Problems Can Fix Yourself

There are a few simple furnace issues that homeowners can safely address. These tasks usually involve routine maintenance or basic troubleshooting and don’t require specialized tools or knowledge. Here’s a look at what you can confidently handle on your own:
Check & Replace the Air Filter: A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow, causing your furnace to work harder and potentially overheat. This can lead to short cycling, reduced efficiency, and even system shutdowns. Replacing the air filter regularly is one of the easiest ways to keep your furnace running smoothly.
Check the Thermostat Settings: Sometimes, the issue is as simple as an incorrect thermostat setting. If the thermostat is set to “cool” or “fan,” the furnace won’t produce heat.
Reset the Furnace: A furnace that suddenly stops working may need a simple reset to resolve minor operational glitches.
Check the Circuit Breaker & Power Supply: Furnaces rely on electricity to power components like the blower motor and ignition system. A tripped circuit breaker or disconnected power switch could be the reason your furnace isn’t working.
Inspect and Clear the Vents: Blocked or obstructed vents can reduce airflow, making the furnace work harder to heat your home and potentially causing it to overheat.

When to Call a Professional Heating Contractor

While some furnace issues are safe for DIY repairs, others are best left to the professionals. Attempting these repairs on your own can be dangerous and lead to further damage or safety hazards. Here’s what you should avoid:
Gas Line & Gas Valve Issues: Gas furnaces require careful handling of natural gas or propane lines. If you suspect a gas leak or have issues with the gas valve, attempting to fix it yourself can be extremely dangerous, leading to gas leaks, explosions, or carbon monoxide poisoning.
Electrical Repairs: Furnaces rely on complex electrical systems, including wiring, control boards, and circuit breakers. Handling electrical repairs without proper training can result in electrocution, fire hazards, or further damage to the system.
Blower Motor or Fan Repairs: The blower motor and fan are intricate components that require specialized knowledge to repair or replace. Incorrect handling can lead to further damage, reduced efficiency, and costly repairs.
Replacing the Ignition System: Modern furnaces use electronic ignition systems, such as hot surface igniters or electronic spark igniters, which are delicate and complex components. Handling these parts without proper knowledge can lead to improper installation, further damage, or voiding your furnace warranty.
Tinkering with the Pressure Relief Valve: The pressure relief valve is a safety device that releases excess pressure from the furnace system. Attempting to adjust, repair, or replace this component on your own can result in dangerous pressure buildup or system damage.

Central Forced Air Furnace Heating Inspections, Tune Ups, Repair, Replacement & More in Summerlin, North LV, Henderson, Enterprise, Paradise, Spring Valley, Sunrise Manor & Greater Las Vegas, NV

While there are some furnace issues you can safely troubleshoot and fix yourself more complex problems require professional experience. For furnace repairs and more, contact LV Heating & Cooling today.