More than half of the homes in the U.S. utilize a gas-fired furnace for heating. The low cost of natural gas, combined with the proven reliability of these heating systems, makes them the prevailing choice for both new residential construction and upgrades. Like all mechanical devices, however, a gas furnace incurs wear and tear over time and performance or efficiency issues may arise. Because a high-temperature open flame, flammable fuel and dangerous combustion gases are involved, almost all repair work should be left to a qualified HVAC service tech. However, a few minor troubleshooting options can be done yourself before calling in the professionals:
When There’s No Heat
- Make sure the unit’s turned on at the thermostat. Thermostats often get inadvertently switched to the “off” or “cool” position.
- Make sure the thermostat is set to the proper temperature.
- Is the furnace’s gas valve shut off? If so, first find out why before you re-open the valve and attempt to light the unit. There could be a valid safety reason for turning off the gas supply.
- The pilot light is out. If the pilot went out, you can attempt the manufacturer’s instructions to re-light. If the unit won’t re-light, you probably have a defective thermocouple or electronic igniter. Call a pro for repair.
When There’s Heat, but Not Enough
- Again, verify proper thermostat settings.
- Check for a dirty air filter. Clogged filters obstruct proper airflow and prevent adequate heat from circulating through the house. The filter should be changed monthly.
- Other potential causes, such as burner issues, are strictly matters that should be referred to a qualified HVAC service tech.
When the Furnace Runs Non-Stop
- If the fan switch at the thermostat is set to “continuous,” change it to “auto” and see if that resolves the problem.
- Check the condition of the air filter. Obstructed airflow may cause non-stop operation because insufficient heat is reaching the thermostat.
Your Wabash Valley go-to source since 1922, contact Paitson Bros. for professional furnace sales and service.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in Terre Haute, Indiana about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about furnaces and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide or call us at 812-645-6859.
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Jeff Paitson is a third generation business owner who continues to run the business with the same values that have been passed down from previous generations since 1922.
Jeff’s belief is that the business belongs to Jesus Christ; therefore 10 percent of the company’s profits go toward the Maryland Community Church.
Jeff is a Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce member and in his spare time, he enjoys 
Ethan Rayburn is a lifelong resident of Terre Haute and a 2005 graduate of Purdue University.
An Eagle Scout, Ethan spent four years as a non-profit executive with the Boy Scouts of America before joining Paitson Bros. as a comfort advisor and later General Manager. In that role, Ethan has brought a renewed enthusiasm for customer care, integrity, value, and service to Paitson Bros. Heating & Air Conditioning.
Ethan enjoys singing and was a member of the Purdue Varsity Glee Club. He also enjoys playing and coaching soccer, spending time with his family and two young boys, and volunteering his time and resources with his church, Terre Haute First Baptist Church, which he has attended from a very young age.
Paitson Bros
1 (812) 232-2347
Serving the Wabash Valley, IN Area Since 1922