Furnace FAQs, Shawnee Mission, Top Notch Heating, 2025, min

When you move into a new home, getting to know your heating system can feel like learning a foreign language. If you’ve never dealt with a furnace before, it’s natural to have questions, especially if you’re experiencing furnace trouble. At Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we’re here to help with furnace troubleshooting, repairs, and customer-first service in Shawnee Mission and the surrounding areas. To get you started, here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions (Furnace FAQs) new homeowners have about their furnaces.

Why Isn’t My Furnace Turning On?

This is one of the most common furnace problems we hear about. Before you call for furnace repair in Shawnee Mission, try these troubleshooting steps:

Check the Thermostat: Ensure it’s set to “Heat” and that the temperature setting is higher than the current room temperature. If it’s battery-powered, replace the batteries.
Check the Power: Look at your furnace’s circuit breaker. If it’s tripped, reset it. Also, make sure the furnace switch (usually located on the unit or a nearby wall) is in the “On” position.
Inspect the Pilot Light: If you have a gas furnace, the pilot light may have gone out. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it. If it won’t stay lit, call a professional.

Why Is My Furnace Blowing Cold Air?

If your furnace is running but not heating, it could be due to one of these issues:

Thermostat Settings: Make sure the fan is set to “Auto” instead of “On.” When set to “On,” the fan blows constantly, even when the furnace isn’t heating.
Dirty Air Filter: A clogged filter can restrict airflow and cause the furnace to overheat, triggering a safety feature that shuts off the burners.
Pilot Light or Ignition Issues: If the pilot light is out or the electronic ignition is malfunctioning, your furnace won’t produce heat.

How Often Should I Change My Furnace Filter?

Regular filter changes are crucial for preventing furnace trouble. Most experts recommend changing the filter every 1-3 months, depending on:

Filter Type: High-efficiency filters may last longer but can become clogged faster in homes with pets or high dust levels.
Usage: During heavy-use months, like winter, check and replace the filter more frequently.

Why Does My Furnace Smell Funny?

Furnaces can produce various odors, and not all are cause for concern. Here’s a quick guide:

Burning Dust: A dusty smell is common when you first turn on your furnace for the season. It should go away after a few hours.
Metallic or Electrical Odor: This could indicate an overheating motor or other electrical issue. Turn off the furnace and call a professional immediately.
Rotten Eggs: This smell could signal a gas leak. Leave your home and call your gas company and a furnace repair professional.

How Can I Prevent Furnace Problems?

Preventative maintenance is key to avoiding furnace trouble. Here are some tips:
Schedule Regular Furnace Maintenance: Have your furnace inspected and tuned up annually by a qualified technician. At Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we provide thorough furnace maintenance services to keep your system running smoothly.

Change the Air Filter: As mentioned earlier, a clean filter helps your furnace operate efficiently and reduces wear and tear.
Keep the Area Around the Furnace Clear: Remove clutter and debris to ensure proper airflow and reduce fire risk.
Listen for Unusual Noises: Rattling, banging, or squealing sounds could indicate a problem. Don’t ignore these signs. Call us for furnace troubleshooting and repair.

When Should I Call for Professional Furnace Repair?

While some furnace issues can be resolved with basic troubleshooting, others require a professional’s expertise. If these furnace FAQs haven’t solved your issues, give us a call.

Call Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing if:

Your furnace won’t turn on after trying the steps above.
The pilot light won’t stay lit.
You hear unusual noises, like banging or grinding.
Your energy bills have spiked without explanation.
The furnace cycles on and off frequently (short cycling).

Our technicians are skilled in diagnosing and fixing all types of furnace problems. Plus, we offer emergency furnace repair services for those unexpected breakdowns.

Why Choose Top Notch for Furnace Troubleshooting and Repair?

At Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we’re more than just a heating and cooling company…we’re a customer service company. Here’s what sets us apart:

Customer-First Approach: We’ve built our business on creating happy customers. From the person who answers your call to the technician who fixes your furnace, our team is dedicated to providing top-notch service.
Fast Response Times: We understand that furnace problems can’t wait. That’s why we strive to respond quickly to every call, often on the same day.
Fully Stocked Trucks: Our yellow trucks are equipped with the tools and parts needed to handle most furnace repairs on the spot.
Emergency Services: No matter the time of day, you can count on us to get your furnace up and running again.

Trust Top Notch for Your Furnace Repair Needs in Shawnee Mission

We hope these furnace FAQs have helped. Whether you’re dealing with furnace trouble or just have questions about furnace maintenance, Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing is here to help. Our skilled technicians and commitment to exceptional customer service make us the go-to choice for furnace troubleshooting and repair in Shawnee Mission and the Kansas City area.

Don’t let furnace problems leave you in the cold. Call Top Notch Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today and experience the difference a customer-focused approach can make.