As the warm weather approaches, it’s time to shut down your furnace for the season. This will help to save energy and prevent the unit from overheating and breaking down. Shutting down your furnace is a simple process that can be completed in a few minutes. Here’s how to do it:
First, turn off the power to the furnace at the breaker panel. This will ensure that the unit is completely off and cannot be turned on accidentally. Next, locate the gas valve on the furnace and turn it to the “off” position. This will stop the flow of gas to the unit. Finally, open the furnace door and remove the blower motor cover. This will allow you to access the blower motor. Disconnect the wires from the blower motor and remove the motor from the unit. Store the blower motor in a safe place until you are ready to reinstall it in the fall.
Once you have completed these steps, your furnace will be shut down for the season. Be sure to check the furnace regularly for any signs of damage or leaks. If you find any problems, contact a qualified HVAC technician for repairs.
Identifying the Furnace
Identifying the furnace is the first step in shutting it down for the season. The furnace is typically located in a basement, utility room, or attic. It is usually a large, metal box with a blower fan and a combustion chamber. The furnace will have a nameplate attached to it that identifies the make and model.
The following are some tips for identifying the furnace:
- Look for a large, metal box with a blower fan and a combustion chamber.
- Check for a nameplate attached to the furnace that identifies the make and model.
- If you can’t find the furnace, consult your home’s owner’s manual or contact a qualified HVAC technician.
Once you have identified the furnace, you can proceed to the next step of shutting it down for the season.
Removing the Burner Assembly
Preparing your furnace for the off-season involves removing the burner assembly for safe storage and maintenance. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and safe process:
1. Shut off the gas and electricity:
Locate the gas shut-off valve and turn it clockwise to shut off the gas supply. Turn off the electricity by switching off the circuit breaker or removing the fuse that powers the furnace.
2. Disconnect the gas line:
Using a wrench, disconnect the gas line from the furnace. Be sure to use caution as there may be some remaining gas in the line.
3. Remove the burner tray:
Locate the burner tray and carefully lift it out of the furnace. It may be secured with screws or bolts. Be mindful of any wires or connections that need to be disconnected.
4. Remove the burner igniter:
Disconnect the wires from the burner igniter and use a screwdriver to remove the igniter from the burner tray.
5. Remove the burner tubes:
The burner tubes are typically held in place by clips or screws. Remove these fasteners and carefully pull the burner tubes out of the burner tray. Inspect the tubes for any signs of damage or corrosion, and replace if necessary. Clean the tubes thoroughly to remove any dust or debris.
| Burner Tube Inspection | Repair/Replacement |
|---|---|
| Check for blockages or cracks | Replace if necessary |
| Inspect for corrosion | Clean or replace if damaged |
| Ensure proper positioning | Reinsert burner tubes correctly |
Disassembling the Blower Motor
1. Locate the blower motor, which is typically situated near the bottom of the furnace. It is a cylindrical or rectangular-shaped component with wires and a fan attached to it.
2. Disconnect the electrical wires connected to the blower motor. Use a screwdriver or pliers to carefully detach the wires from the terminals on the motor.
3. Loosen and remove any bolts or screws holding the blower motor in place. These may be located on the sides or bottom of the motor.
4. Carefully lift the blower motor out of its housing. It may be heavy, so ensure you have a firm grip and support it from below.
5. Inspect the blower motor for any signs of damage or wear. If any issues are visible, such as loose or broken wires, damaged fan blades, or excessive dirt and debris, it may require repair or replacement.
6. To disassemble the blower motor further, follow these detailed steps:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| a. | Remove the fan blades from the motor shaft. They may be secured by a set screw or snap ring. Carefully pry off the fan blades using a small screwdriver or pliers. |
| b. | If present, detach the motor housing from the motor body. This is typically done by removing several screws or bolts. |
| c. | Inspect the motor components, including the windings, bearings, and rotor. Check for any damage, discoloration, or excessive wear that could indicate a problem. |
7. Once disassembled, thoroughly clean all components of the blower motor using a soft brush or compressed air to remove dirt and debris.
8. Reassemble the blower motor in reverse order of disassembly. Ensure all components are correctly aligned and securely fastened.
Cleaning and Inspecting Parts
Regular cleaning and inspection of your furnace’s components can help extend its lifespan and improve its efficiency. Here are the key areas to focus on:
1. Air Filter
Replace the air filter every 30-90 days, or more often if you have pets or a dusty environment. A dirty filter restricts airflow, reducing efficiency and potentially causing overheating.
2. Blower Fan
Clean the blower fan blades and motor with a vacuum cleaner or compressed air. Remove any debris or dust buildup that may hinder its performance.
3. Heat Exchanger
Inspect the heat exchanger for any cracks or corrosion. If any damage is present, call a qualified technician for repairs.
4. Gas Burner and Pilot Assembly
Clean the gas burner and pilot assembly using a soft brush or compressed air. Ensure that there is no debris or carbon buildup that could interfere with proper ignition or gas flow.
5. Ductwork
Check the ductwork for any leaks or blockages. Seal any leaks with duct tape or mastic, and remove any obstructions that may restrict airflow.
6. Electrical Connections
Inspect all electrical connections for any loose wires or damaged terminals. Tighten any loose connections and replace any damaged components as necessary.
7. Thermostat and Wiring
Clean the thermostat and its wiring to ensure accurate temperature readings and proper communication with the furnace. Check for any loose connections, damaged wires, or corrosion, and address any issues promptly. Verify that the thermostat is set to the desired off position or schedule, such as “Away” or “Vacation,” to prevent the furnace from operating unnecessarily during the off-season.
Reassembling the Furnace
Once the furnace has been cleaned and inspected, it’s time to reassemble it. Start by reversing the steps you took to disassemble it. First, reinstall the blower motor and secure it with screws. Then, reattach the blower housing and secure it with bolts. Next, reinstall the heat exchanger and connect the gas line. Finally, reattach the combustion chamber and secure it with bolts.
Electrical Connections
Once the furnace is reassembled, it’s time to make the electrical connections. Start by connecting the wires to the blower motor. Then, connect the wires to the gas valve. Finally, connect the wires to the thermostat.
Testing the Furnace
Once the electrical connections are made, it’s time to test the furnace. Turn on the power to the furnace and set the thermostat to “heat.” The furnace should start up and run for a few minutes. If the furnace doesn’t start up or doesn’t run for more than a few minutes, there may be a problem. Check the electrical connections and make sure that the gas valve is open. If you still can’t get the furnace to start up, call a qualified technician.
Gas Line Inspection and Igniter Test
Before lighting the furnace, inspect the gas line for any leaks. You can do this by spraying a soapy water solution on the gas line and looking for bubbles. If you see any bubbles, there is a leak and you should call a qualified technician to fix it.
Once the gas line has been inspected, you can light the furnace. To do this, turn the thermostat to the desired temperature and then press the “ignite” button. The furnace should start up and run for a few minutes. If the furnace doesn’t light up or doesn’t run for more than a few minutes, there may be a problem with the igniter. Check the igniter and make sure that it is clean and in good condition. If you still can’t get the furnace to light up, call a qualified technician.
| 1. | Turn off the power to the furnace. |
| 2. | Disconnect the gas line from the furnace. |
| 3. | Remove the blower motor and blower housing. |
| 4. | Remove the heat exchanger. |
| 5. | Remove the combustion chamber. |
| 6. | Clean the furnace. |
| 7. | Inspect the furnace. |
| 8. | Reassemble the furnace. |
| 9. | Make the electrical connections. |
| 10. | Test the furnace. |
| 11. | Inspect the gas line and test the igniter. |
Turning the Power Back On
To ensure the safe and effective operation of your furnace, it is crucial to follow proper procedures when turning the power back on. Here is a detailed guide to assist you:
1. Check the Thermostat: Ensure that the thermostat is set to “Off” or “Heat” mode, depending on the season.
2. Locate the Circuit Breaker: Identify the circuit breaker that controls the furnace. It is typically located in your home’s main electrical panel.
3. Turn the Circuit Breaker to “Off”: Flip the circuit breaker to the “Off” position to cut off power to the furnace.
4. Wait a Few Minutes: Allow a few minutes for the furnace to fully discharge any residual electricity.
5. Inspect the Furnace: Remove the furnace’s access panel and visually inspect the wiring, switches, and components for any signs of damage or loose connections.
6. Reattach the Access Panel: Carefully reattach the access panel to ensure a secure fit.
7. Turn the Circuit Breaker to “On”: Flip the circuit breaker back to the “On” position to restore power to the furnace.
8. Monitor the Furnace: Turn the thermostat to “Heat” mode and observe the furnace for any unusual noises, odors, or smoke. If you detect any anomalies, turn off the furnace immediately and contact a qualified HVAC technician.
9. Reset the Furnace: If the furnace does not operate properly after turning the power back on, you may need to reset it. Consult your furnace’s user manual for specific instructions on how to perform a reset.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Check the thermostat |
| 2 | Locate the circuit breaker |
| 3 | Turn the circuit breaker to “Off” |
| 4 | Wait a few minutes |
| 5 | Inspect the furnace |
| 6 | Reattach the access panel |
| 7 | Turn the circuit breaker to “On” |
| 8 | Monitor the furnace |
| 9 | Reset the furnace |
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. Furnace won’t turn on
Check if the power switch is on. Ensure the thermostat is set to “heat” mode and the desired temperature is higher than the current room temperature. Inspect the circuit breaker or fuse box to ensure the furnace circuit is not tripped or blown.
2. Furnace makes strange noises
A humming sound can indicate a malfunctioning blower motor or capacitor. Grinding noises may indicate worn bearings, while rattling sounds could be caused by loose components. Contact a qualified technician for further diagnosis.
3. Furnace blows cold air
Verify that the thermostat is set to “heat” mode and the desired temperature is appropriate. Check if the air filter is clogged and needs replacing. Inspect the furnace flame sensor for any dirt or obstruction, as it may prevent proper ignition.
4. Furnace smells like burning
Immediately turn off the furnace and call a technician. The smell could indicate an electrical issue, a dirty heat exchanger, or a malfunctioning component.
5. Furnace short-cycles
Short-cycling refers to frequent on-and-off cycles, which can reduce efficiency and shorten the furnace’s lifespan. Check the thermostat for proper settings and ensure the air filter is not clogged. An oversized furnace can also contribute to short-cycling.
6. Furnace overheats
Overheating can occur due to a dirty air filter, restricted airflow, or a malfunctioning blower motor. Check for any obstructions in the air supply or return vents. Ensure the furnace is properly sized for the home’s heating needs.
7. Furnace leaks water
A leaking furnace can indicate a cracked heat exchanger or a faulty condensate drain. Shut off the furnace and call a technician for immediate attention.
8. Furnace pilot light won’t stay lit
Verify that the pilot light is clean and free of debris. Ensure there is adequate gas supply to the furnace. Use a match or lighter to relight the pilot light, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
9. Furnace won’t respond to thermostat
Check if the batteries in the thermostat are replaced. Inspect the wiring connections between the thermostat and the furnace to ensure they are secure. Verify that the thermostat is compatible with the furnace.
10. Furnace needs professional maintenance
Annual professional maintenance is crucial to ensure the furnace operates efficiently and safely. A technician will inspect the furnace’s components, clean the heat exchanger, lubricate moving parts, and ensure proper airflow. Regular maintenance can prolong the furnace’s lifespan and reduce the likelihood of costly repairs.
| Maintenance Task | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Air Filter Replacement | Monthly in heating season |
| Furnace Inspection and Cleaning | Annually |
| Heat Exchanger Inspection | Annually |
| Blower Motor Lubrication | Annually |
| Thermostat Calibration | As needed |
How To Shut Down Furnace For The Season Gmh950703bxac
As the weather warms up, it’s time to start thinking about shutting down your furnace for the season. This will help to save energy and money, and it will also help to prolong the life of your furnace. Here are the steps on how to shut down your furnace for the season:
- Turn off the power to the furnace. This is usually done at the circuit breaker or fuse box.
- Close the gas valve. This is usually located near the furnace.
- Open the flue damper. This is usually located on the top of the furnace.
- Clean the furnace filter. This will help to prevent dust and debris from building up in the furnace.
- Cover the furnace with a plastic tarp or furnace cover. This will help to protect the furnace from dust and moisture.
People Also Ask About How To Shut Down Furnace For The Season Gmh950703bxac
How do I know if my furnace is shut down?
If your furnace is shut down, the power will be off, the gas valve will be closed, and the flue damper will be open.
What happens if I don’t shut down my furnace for the season?
If you don’t shut down your furnace for the season, it can continue to run even though it’s not needed. This can waste energy and money, and it can also shorten the life of your furnace.
How long does it take to shut down a furnace?
It should only take a few minutes to shut down your furnace. However, if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, you can call a qualified HVAC technician to do it for you.
