Furnace Troubleshooting Guide for Greater Vancouver Homeowners

Your furnace has stopped working or is not heating properly. Before you call for service, this guide walks you through safe homeowner checks that resolve many common furnace problems. If these steps do not restore heat, BC Wide Home Services Ltd, doing business as BC Wide Heating & Air Conditioning is available for prompt professional service.

Safety First

If you smell gas or your carbon monoxide detector sounds, evacuate immediately and call 911 from outside. Do not open sealed furnace panels — internal components involve high-voltage electricity and gas connections requiring licensed professional handling.

Step 1: Thermostat Checks

Verify the thermostat is set to Heat mode and the temperature is set at least 3°C above room temperature. Replace batteries if the display is blank. Ensure the fan setting is on Auto, not On.

Step 2: Power Supply

Check the furnace circuit breaker — toggle it fully OFF and back ON even if it appears ON. Find the furnace power switch (looks like a light switch near the furnace) and verify it is ON. Ensure the furnace access panel is fully closed.

Step 3: Air Filter

Remove the filter and hold it up to a light. If you cannot see light through it, replace it immediately. A clogged filter causes the furnace to overheat and shut down on safety.

Step 4: Gas Supply

Verify the gas valve near the furnace is open — handle parallel to the pipe. If other gas appliances also do not work, contact FortisBC.

Step 5: Error Codes

Look for a blinking LED through the furnace viewing window. Count short and long blinks, then check the diagnostic chart inside the furnace cover panel. Write down the code before calling for service.

Step 6: Reset Once

Press the reset button once only. If the furnace starts, monitor it for an hour. If it shuts down again, do not press reset repeatedly — this indicates a persistent problem needing professional diagnosis.

When to Call BC Wide

Call (604) 330-3953 if: the furnace does not start, starts but no heat comes from vents, makes unusual noises, starts and stops repeatedly, the blower runs continuously, or an error code does not clear. Our licensed technicians arrive prepared with diagnostic tools and common parts.

Safety Reminder

If you smell gas, suspect carbon monoxide or believe there is an immediate danger, leave the property and contact emergency services or the appropriate gas emergency authority. Do not remain inside — exit the building immediately and call for help from outside.