When Should You Call a Heating Repair Expert in Idaho?

Are heating problems chilling your home in Idaho? There are a few things you can do before calling an expert. Use this simple furnace troubleshooting advice before picking up the phone.

Heating Repair Expert Offers Advice

Max Rivard, co-owner of Rivard Brothers, specializes in plumbing and heating in old house restoration. While he encourages homeowners to employ a basic level of troubleshooting knowledge, he also warns that sometimes calling an expert can save time and money: "Homeowners, unless they have a background [in heating repair], are really limited as to what they can do."

Simple Furnace Troubleshooting Tips

Take a look at Rivard's advice for some simple furnace troubleshooting:

• First, check to see if the red switch at the stairway is on; many times in the dark it's mistaken as a light switch.
• Second, check the red service switch on the boiler or furnace to see if it is also on.
• Lastly, press the red reset button on the burner itself just once: every time you press and it doesn't light, unlit oil is sprayed into the chamber. Multiple attempts can bring explosive results.

If the furnace does fire, be aware that a problem did exist and may exist again in the future. Be prepared for a little smoke and rumbling to occur due to unburned fuel in the chamber; it will clear up in a minute. Rivard notes that if it doesn't or doesn't light, call for service. Check out service professionals in Idaho for more options.