Why does my furnace keep shutting off?

There is always a sense of dread when you realize something isn’t quite right with your furnace. You’re resting at home and you notice your furnace is continuously 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 more than usual 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 the filters also help keep your system clean. Your first step when you recognize a problem with your system should be examining your air filter to see if it needs replacement. 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 lots of us, we may have set our thermostats months ago and forgot about it, even more so when using a smart or programmable thermostat. Look at your thermostat to see if anything strange is occurring or if it could 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 space, such as in direct sunlight or by another heat source, it could be wrongly 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 inspect the seals around your windows for any drafts or cold air entering into your house.

While you can certainly check for some of these issues by yourself, if issues still persist after these checks, it might be time to call in the professionals. When your furnace is always turning off, it can result in 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 examine the situation and find the root of the cause, so you can enjoy the rest of the season with the maximum indoor comfort. If you have questions, call us at 803-399-7208 or check out our online scheduler to conveniently request an appointment.