Quck answer
To reset a natural gas furnace, follow these steps:
1. Locate the furnace’s reset button or switch, usually found on the furnace’s control panel or near the burner.
2. Turn off the furnace by switching off the power supply or shutting off the gas valve.
3. Wait for at least 5 minutes to allow any residual gas to dissipate.
4. Press the reset button or switch to reset the furnace.
5. Turn on the power supply or open the gas valve.
6. Set the thermostat to the desired temperature and wait for the furnace to start.
7. Monitor the furnace for any unusual noises or malfunctions.
Remember to consult the furnace’s manual or contact a professional if you encounter any difficulties or if the reset does not solve the issue.
In the world of technical help, the first question asked is, “Have you tried turning it off and on again?” This is also true for natural gas furnaces as resetting the system might solve any issues you’re experiencing. Modern furnaces often have circuitry problems that can be fixed by resetting the power supply.
This method can solve various issues such as the furnace blowing cold air or not providing enough heat. Therefore, before calling a technician, always remember tech rule number one: Turn it off and on again.
Restarting Your Furnace
Nowadays, natural gas furnaces come with automatic ignition options, making it easier for some people to restart the system. For those who have an older model with a pilot light, resetting the furnace might seem intimidating but it’s a simple process.
After resetting your natural gas furnace, it should heat up within an hour.
Being Energy Efficient
If you’re restarting the system because of heat issues, make sure your breaker panel hasn’t shut off, causing the system to go offline. Remember, never check a circuit breaker with wet hands and always use one hand at a time.
If the breaker panel control is on and functioning correctly, turn the furnace’s power switch to “off.”
Then, go to the breaker panel and flick the furnace breaker to “off.”
Accessing the Furnace
Remove the access panel on the furnace. This is a door or metal panel that covers the controls and inner-workings of the furnace. Some panels open, while others need to be lifted and removed.
Inside, you’ll find the gas control valve. Turn it off.
Clearing the Gas
The gas needs to dissipate before resetting the furnace. Wait for at least five minutes for the air to clear. You can use this time to make yourself a cup of coffee.
Restarting the Furnace
What you do after turning the gas back on will depend on the type of furnace you have. If you have an ignition furnace, skip the next step and move straight to “Flip the Breaker.”
For an old-school pilot light furnace, you’ll need a long barbecue-style lighter to ignite the pilot light manually. After this step, continue to the next one.
After turning the gas back on, act quickly to prevent gas from building up for more than a few seconds. If you experience a delay, turn the gas off for a few minutes before trying again.
Ready? Turn the gas valve back on.
Igniting the Pilot Light
If you have an automatic-ignition furnace, skip to the next step.
To restart your furnace, begin by turning the switch to “pilot” and lighting the pilot light with a barbecue-style long lighter. Wait a minute to see if the pilot light stays lit. If it doesn’t, you may have an issue with the gas line, the gas-to-air ratio, a clogged air filter, or other problems that require the help of a service technician or a different instructional article.
Next, go to the breaker panel and flip the furnace breaker switch up to re-engage it. For those with automatic ignitions, turn the furnace on to kick-start the igniter. If this doesn’t work, you may need to replace the ignition source. For standing pilot light furnaces, turn on the furnace, and it should start generating heat shortly.
Finally, replace or close the panel cover. If resetting your furnace doesn’t work, there may be other problems, such as clogged air filters or poor gas/air ratios. Try troubleshooting and maintenance steps before resorting to calling a professional. With any luck, your furnace will work in an hour or so, and you can enjoy a warm and cozy home.
FAQ
1. What is a natural gas furnace?
A natural gas furnace is a heating system that uses natural gas as its fuel source to generate heat. It is commonly used in residential and commercial buildings to provide warmth during cold weather.
2. Why would I need to reset a natural gas furnace?
There are several reasons why you might need to reset a natural gas furnace. It could be due to a power outage, a tripped circuit breaker, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a safety feature that has been triggered.
3. How do I reset a natural gas furnace?
To reset a natural gas furnace, you first need to locate the reset button. It is usually located near the burner or on the control panel. Press and hold the reset button for about 30 seconds to allow the system to reset. If the furnace doesn’t start after resetting, it is best to contact a professional technician for further assistance.
4. Are there any safety precautions I should take when resetting a natural gas furnace?
Yes, there are a few safety precautions you should keep in mind when resetting a natural gas furnace. Make sure to turn off the power supply to the furnace before attempting to reset it. Also, be cautious of any gas leaks or unusual smells. If you suspect a gas leak, leave the area immediately and contact your gas utility provider.
5. What should I do if the natural gas furnace doesn’t reset?
If the natural gas furnace doesn’t reset after following the proper steps, it is recommended to contact a professional HVAC technician. They have the knowledge and expertise to diagnose and repair any issues with the furnace.
6. How often should I reset a natural gas furnace?
Resetting a natural gas furnace should only be done when necessary. It is not something that needs to be done on a regular basis. If you find yourself needing to reset the furnace frequently, it is a sign that there may be an underlying issue that needs to be addressed by a professional.
7. Can I reset a natural gas furnace myself, or should I hire a professional?
While you can attempt to reset a natural gas furnace yourself, it is always best to hire a professional technician for any furnace-related issues. They have the knowledge and experience to safely handle and troubleshoot the furnace, ensuring proper functioning and avoiding any potential hazards.