Troubleshooting
Furnace Won’t Turn On in Wichita? Troubleshooting Guide
A furnace that won’t start on a cold morning is stressful, but a few quick checks rule out the simplest causes before you need to call anyone.
Safe checks first
- Thermostat: fresh batteries, set to Heat, and the target temperature above room temp
- Breaker or furnace switch: most furnaces have a switch that looks like a light switch nearby — make sure it’s on
- Air filter: a severely clogged filter can restrict airflow enough to trip a safety switch
- Pilot light, on older units that have one — check if it’s out
If those don’t fix it
A furnace that still won’t fire after those checks is usually down to the ignitor, the flame sensor, or the control board — parts that need a technician to test and replace. Repeated attempts to force it to start without knowing why it’s not usually just delays the actual fix.
When to stop and call immediately
A gas smell or a triggered carbon monoxide detector means stop troubleshooting, shut the system off, get everyone out, and call for help right away — that’s a safety issue, not a repair-when-convenient one.
Need help with this in Wichita?
Spiker Heating & Air has been a family-owned Wichita business since 2013, licensed and BBB listed. Same day or next day appointments — ask for Jay or Bo.