Furnace not turning on
If you smell gas or a carbon monoxide alarm is sounding, leave the house and call 911 or your gas utility (M.U.D. in Omaha, 402.554.7777) from outside; if not, check the thermostat, power switch, breaker, and filter.
Gas smell or carbon monoxide: leave first
M.U.D. says if you smell gas, do not try to find the leak. Leave the building immediately. Do not use electrical switches, appliances, lights, telephones, or mobile devices inside. When you are in a safe place, call M.U.D.'s emergency line at 402.554.7777 or 911.
Carbon monoxide symptoms are like the flu. If someone has them, call 911 immediately. Carrier says that if you smell rotten eggs or a carbon monoxide detector goes off, evacuate right away, and not to troubleshoot the furnace yourself if you suspect a gas leak.
Safe checks for a furnace that will not start
- Thermostat. Carrier says to set it to heat with the temperature higher than the current room temperature.
- Power switch. Make sure the furnace power switch is on.
- Breaker. Look for a furnace or heat breaker in the electrical panel and reset it if it has tripped.
- Filter. Carrier says a clogged filter restricts airflow and stresses the heat exchanger and blower motor, so clean or replace a dirty one.
What needs a technician
Carrier says a malfunctioning ignition is a primary reason a gas furnace will not turn on. That is not a homeowner repair. Banging, grinding, or squealing also point to a motor or belt problem and warrant a service call. If you finish the checks and the furnace still will not start, contact a heating professional.
If it keeps happening
Lennox says multiple repairs within a few years show a furnace is failing. ENERGY STAR says equipment more than 10 years old should be evaluated by a professional. See furnace repair in Omaha, emergency HVAC, or the repair or replace guide.
Get a contractor
A local contractor can quote the repair for free through this site. Use the link to get a free quote.
If the safe checks don't fix it, request furnace repair in Omaha and we'll look for a local contractor who can help.
Sources
Common questions
Should I call 911 or the gas company for a gas smell?
M.U.D. says to call its emergency line at 402.554.7777 or 911 once you are in a safe place. Leave first.
Can I relight the pilot or fix the ignition myself?
Carrier says ignition problems are a primary reason a gas furnace will not turn on, and that you should not troubleshoot the furnace yourself if you suspect a gas leak. Call a technician.
What are the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning?
M.U.D. says symptoms are like the flu. If someone shows symptoms, call 911 immediately.