Why Is My Furnace Not Turning On? 5 Common Causes Every Winnipeg Homeowner Should Know

Winnipeg homeowners know how harsh winter can be. When temperatures drop well below freezing, a working furnace is essential for safety and comfort. So, what happens when your furnace suddenly refuses to turn on? Many furnace issues are common and fixable. 

In this guide, we’ll cover five reasons your furnace isn’t working and what you can do about it. Plus, we’ll share when it’s time to call the experts at Fair Service Heating & Air Conditioning, your trusted source for furnace repair in Winnipeg. 

Before You Start: A Quick Safety Reminder 

If you smell gas, hear a hissing sound near gas lines, or feel dizzy or unwell, leave your home immediately and call your gas utility or emergency services. Do not try to relight pilots, adjust gas valves, or keep resetting the system. These issues require a licensed technician. 

For anything beyond basic checks like thermostat settings, power, and filters, professional service is the safest choice. 

1. Thermostat Issues 

Your thermostat acts as the control centre for your heating system. If it’s not working properly, your furnace won’t start. 

What to check: 

• Make sure the thermostat is set to “heat” and the temperature is higher than the current room temperature. 

• Replace batteries if the display is blank or dim. 

• If the thermostat is still unresponsive, it may need professional calibration or replacement. 

2. Power Supply Problems 

Even gas furnaces rely on electricity for ignition and controls. A power issue can stop your furnace cold. 

Quick fixes: 

• Check your breaker panel for tripped circuits and reset if necessary. 

• Confirm the furnace switch (usually located nearby) is in the “on” position. 

• If the breaker keeps tripping, call a licensed technician immediately. This could indicate a serious electrical problem. 

3. Dirty or Clogged Filters 

A clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and shut down as a safety measure.  

Solution: 

• Replace your filter every one to three months during heating season. 

• If airflow improves but the furnace still won’t start, the issue may be deeper within the system. 

4. Fuel Supply Problems 

If you have a gas furnace, an interruption in the fuel supply will prevent ignition. 

 What to do: 

• Ensure the gas valve is open. 

• If you suspect a gas leak, leave your home immediately and call your utility provider—never attempt repairs yourself. 

• If the gas supply is fine but the furnace still won’t ignite, professional service is required. 

5. Dirty Burners 

Over time, burners can accumulate dirt and debris, preventing proper ignition.  

Fix: 

• Cleaning burners requires expertise. Avoid DIY here, as improper handling can lead to dangerous gas leaks or carbon monoxide issues. 

• Schedule a professional cleaning to restore efficiency and safety. 

When to Call the Experts 

If you’ve checked these basics and your furnace still won’t turn on, it’s time to call a professional. At Fair Service Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer: 

• 24/7 emergency furnace repair services. 

• Red Seal-certified and Class B licensed technicians. 

• Over 20 years of experience serving Winnipeg homeowners. 

A furnace that stops working during Winnipeg’s harsh winter can be incredibly stressful, but understanding these common causes helps you troubleshoot quickly. For reliable furnace repair in Winnipeg, trust the experts at Fair Service Heating & Air Conditioning. Call us today and stay warm all winter long in Winnipeg!