One call does it all

Blog

The Repair Blog

Furnace Not Turning On? Troubleshooting Tips For Homeowners

When the temperatures drop in Ruston, Louisiana, the last thing you want is a furnace that refuses to turn on. Whether you live in Ruston or one of the nearby communities within a 20-mile radius, a heating issue can become stressful fast—especially during a sudden cold snap.

Before you panic, there are a few simple things you can check on your own. As always, if you need fast and reliable service, Alltec is here to help. Call us anytime at (318) 255-9020 for expert heating repair.

1. Check Your Thermostat Settings

Sometimes the problem isn’t the furnace—it’s the thermostat.

Make sure:

  • It’s set to “HEAT”

  • The temperature is set higher than the current room temp

  • The thermostat has working batteries

  • The display is on and not flashing an error code

Ruston’s temperature fluctuations can cause thermostats to malfunction, especially older units.

2. Inspect Your Furnace Power Switch

Every furnace has a power switch that looks like a regular light switch—easy to bump off by accident.

Look for:

  • A switch located near the unit

  • A tripped breaker

  • A blown fuse

If you reset the breaker and it trips again, call Alltec immediately. This may indicate an electrical issue that needs professional attention.

3. Check Your Air Filter

A clogged air filter is one of the most common reasons furnaces in Ruston, Louisiana stop working.

A dirty filter can:

  • Restrict airflow

  • Cause overheating

  • Shut down the furnace as a safety measure

  • Reduce system efficiency

Replace your filter and try restarting the system.

4. Inspect the Furnace Pilot Light (Gas Furnaces)

If you have an older gas furnace, the pilot light could be out.

What to look for:

  • A steady blue flame

  • A pilot that won’t stay lit (could indicate a bad thermocouple)

If you smell gas, leave immediately and call your utility provider.

5. Check for Blocked Air Vents

Closed or obstructed vents can cause the furnace to shut down due to overheating.

Make sure:

  • Furniture isn’t covering vents

  • No rooms have intentionally closed vents

  • Airflow is consistent throughout the home

Residents in older homes around Ruston often experience issues related to poor airflow design—something our technicians can help diagnose.

6. Look for Error Codes

Most modern furnaces display blinking light patterns or error codes.

These codes may indicate:

  • Ignition failure

  • Draft issues

  • Flame sensor problems

  • Control board faults

You can check your furnace manual to interpret the code—or simply call Alltec, and we’ll diagnose the issue.

7. When to Call a Professional Heating Technician

If none of these steps solve the issue, it may be time for expert help.

Professional repair may be needed for:

  • Blower motor problems

  • Faulty ignition systems

  • Cracked heat exchangers

  • Gas valve issues

  • Electrical malfunctions

Alltec provides fast, reliable heating repair for homeowners in Ruston, Louisiana and all surrounding areas within a 20-mile radius.

Need Your Furnace Repaired Fast in Ruston, Louisiana? Call Alltec Today!

When your heat stops working, you shouldn’t have to wait.

Alltec offers:

  • Same-day furnace repair

  • Emergency heating services

  • Expert HVAC technicians

  • Fair pricing and honest service

  • Repairs for all major brands

📞 Call us now: (318) 255-9020
📍 Proudly serving Ruston, Louisiana and all nearby communities within a 20-mile radius

Erica Everding