When Your Long Branch Furnace Won’t Start: The Hidden Culprit Behind Gas Furnace Pressure Switch Problems

Nothing is more frustrating than waking up to a cold home on a frigid winter morning in Long Branch, New Jersey. If your furnace is refusing to start, the problem might be lurking in a small but crucial component called the pressure switch. This safety device, about the size of a spark plug, plays a vital role in keeping your family safe while ensuring your heating system operates efficiently.

Understanding Your Furnace’s Pressure Switch

A furnace pressure switch is a safety device which is designed to prevent the furnace from running if the venting air pressure is incorrect. It is put in place to detect the negative pressure created by the draft inducer motor when the furnace turns on and to shut down the furnace ignition if the air pressure isn’t adequate in removing the exhaust fumes. Think of it as your furnace’s guardian angel – The switch makes sure the furnace exhaust system drafts properly before the burner ignites. This prevents the build-up and release of carbon monoxide (CO) produced by the furnace’s natural gas or propane combustion.

When your furnace starts a heating cycle, the inducer motor is the first thing you should see kick on. This starts the inducer motor for up to 60 seconds before anything else even happens. It’s a safety feature that creates a negative pressure or draft which purges the heat exchanger of any poisonous gasses, namely the byproducts of combustion.

Common Signs Your Pressure Switch Is Stuck Open

The most obvious sign of pressure switch problems is a furnace that simply won’t start. One common issue homeowners face is a furnace pressure switch stuck open or closed, which causes the burner and blower to run inefficiently. You might notice your furnace’s inducer motor running, but the system never progresses to ignition. Some homeowners report hearing clicking sounds or seeing error codes on their thermostat display.

If the pressure switch doesn’t activate, the furnace will shut down and try again. If the pressure switch doesn’t close after 3-5 reboots, the inducer motor will stop receiving power from the control board. This safety mechanism prevents dangerous operation, but it also leaves you without heat.

Top Causes of Pressure Switch Problems

1. Blocked Exhaust Vents

The #1 reason for a pressure switch to be stuck open is blockage in the furnace exhaust vent. Blockage in the exhaust vent will prevent a furnace from heating, or shut it down completely. In Long Branch’s coastal environment, Some causes of blockage in the vent are bird nests, debris, dust, branches, and snow. The salt air can also contribute to corrosion and debris buildup over time.

2. Damaged or Disconnected Hoses

Rats like to chew these hoses up and leave holes in them. Other hoses can become brittle and crack. Another possibility is that water could be stuck inside the tubing to the pressure switch. These small rubber hoses are critical for the pressure switch to function properly.

3. Faulty Inducer Motor

If the inducer motor in your furnace is not starting, then the pressure switch won’t close. In fact, the entire purpose of the pressure switch is to ensure that the inducer fan is working properly. A weak or failing inducer motor won’t create sufficient negative pressure to close the switch.

4. Worn Out Pressure Switch

Commonly, the pressure switch fails because the diaphragm inside the casing has become stuck or it has ruptured. Stuck diaphragms just won’t budge on the required draft. Like any mechanical component, pressure switches wear out over time and may need replacement.

DIY Troubleshooting Steps (Safety First!)

Before attempting any troubleshooting, remember that Fox Family Heating & Air does not recommend anyone other than a professional to start opening the furnace up and trying to diagnose the failure going on with your system. There are high and low voltages that can shock a person.

If you choose to inspect your system, here are some safe preliminary checks:

• Check the exhaust vent: As noted above, one of the most common causes of a pressure switch problem is a blocked vent. Inspect the exterior exhaust vent, remove debris, and try your system again.
• Inspect visible hoses: Look for obvious cracks, disconnections, or damage to the rubber hoses connected to the pressure switch
• Listen for the inducer motor: When your thermostat calls for heat, you should hear the inducer motor start up before anything else happens

When to Call Professional Help

For most homeowners, replacing a furnace pressure switch requires professional assistance. If you can’t detect any obvious issues with your visual inspections, it’s time to contact your local One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® for a professional diagnosis.

Professional diagnosis is especially important because 90% of the time pressure switches don’t close because of a defect with the furnace or venting system. They are staying open for a reason. And just because a new pressure switch not calibrated to work with your furnace closed doesn’t mean that the furnace is working properly.

Why Choose AME Plumbing Heating & Cooling for Your Long Branch Furnace Repair

When you need reliable furnace repair long branch services, AME Plumbing Heating & Cooling stands ready to help. AME Plumbing Heating and Cooling is Monmouth County, NJ’s premier plumbing and HVAC service provider. With years of experience and a dedication to excellence, our team of licensed professionals delivers unmatched expertise and quality service to every homeowner and business. Specializing in a wide range of plumbing services and HVAC solutions, we pride ourselves on our ability to handle any challenge, ensuring your home’s systems run smoothly and efficiently.

We offer 24/7 emergency services, ensuring we’re always there when you need us. With competitive pricing, extended warranties, and a satisfaction guarantee, we stand behind our work, making us the preferred plumbing and HVAC company in Monmouth County, NJ. Our family-owned business has been serving the community since 2008, building a reputation for honesty, transparency, and quality workmanship.

The Cost of Pressure Switch Problems

Ignoring pressure switch issues can lead to more serious problems. With the furnace switch stuck open or not functioning properly, there is potential for exhaust fumes and toxic gas to filter through the living spaces of your home if the furnace shuts down because of this. Professional pressure switch replacement typically costs between $225-$250, a small price to pay for your family’s safety and comfort.

Prevention and Maintenance

Regular maintenance can prevent many pressure switch problems. Annual furnace inspections can catch issues like blocked vents, worn hoses, or aging components before they leave you without heat. A dirty or blocked air filter can restrict airflow, affecting the pressure balance and preventing the switch from closing properly. Simple steps like changing your air filter regularly and keeping your exterior vents clear can go a long way toward preventing problems.

Don’t let a faulty pressure switch leave your Long Branch home cold this winter. Contact AME Plumbing Heating & Cooling at (732) 785-4226 for expert diagnosis and repair. Our experienced technicians understand the unique challenges of coastal New Jersey heating systems and are ready to restore your comfort safely and efficiently.