Boiler, Furnace, or Heating System Troubleshooting Checklist

Link Mechanical Services receives dozens of phone calls each year from New Britain CT and West Hartford CT homeowners who are having problems with their heating system. They often ask if there is something they should check before having to schedule a system repair with one of our fully licensed technicians.

If your New Britain CT heating system isn't producing enough heat, any heat at all, or it is not operating as it should, follow this troubleshooting checklist before you call us for a repair:

Natural Gas Furnaces and Boilers

• Ensure that the thermostat is set in the heating mode, and that the temperature is set above the current room temperature (3-5 degrees higher).
• If your thermostat is battery operated, check your batteries, and replace them if needed.
• If your furnace is a forced-air system, verify the fan thermostat switch is set to the "AUTO" position.
• Ensure that your filter is clean (forced air systems). We recommend changing your furnace filter every 30 to 60 days.
• Make sure all vents and return air ducts are open and not blocked (forced air systems).
• Check the emergency switch at the top of the cellar stairs to ensure it is in the "ON" position.
• Check the service switch on the side of the system to make sure it is in the "ON" position.
• Check to see if any circuit breakers are tripped in the electrical panel. Reset if needed.
• If you have a standing pilot model gas burner, make sure the pilot is lit. Re-light if needed.
• Make sure your gas meter is on, and service has not been interrupted.
• Check to make sure the flue vents are not blocked outside on high-efficiency systems. Clear away any snow or ice.
• JUST CALL LINK for service if this does not get your system up and running.

Oil / Propane / LP Gas Furnaces and Boilers

• Make sure your fuel tank has fuel in it. Low tank levels and cold weather can cause intermittent problems.
• Ensure that the thermostat is set in the heating mode, and that the temperature is set above the current room temperature (3-5 degrees higher).
• If your thermostat is battery-operated, check your batteries, and replace them if needed.
• If your furnace is a forced-air system, verify the fan thermostat switch is set to the "AUTO" position.
• Ensure that your filter is clean (forced air systems). We recommend changing your furnace filter every 30 to 60 days.
• Make sure all vents and return air ducts are open and not blocked (forced air systems).
• Check the emergency switch at the top of the cellar stairs to ensure it is in the "ON" position.
• Check the service switch on the side of the system to make sure it is in the "ON" position.
• Check to see if any circuit breakers are tripped in the electrical panel. Reset if needed.
• If you have a standing pilot model gas burner, make sure the pilot is lit. Re-light if needed.
• Make sure your gas meter is on, and service has not been interrupted.
• Check to make sure the flue vents are not blocked outside on high-efficiency systems. Clear away any snow or ice.
• JUST CALL LINK for service if this does not get your system up and running.

Heat Pumps (Heating/Cooling)

• Set your thermostat above the current temperature in the room (about 3-5 degrees) to call for heat.
• If your thermostat is battery-operated, check and replace your batteries if needed.
• Ensure that your filter is clean. We recommend changing your furnace filter every 30 to 60 days.
• Check the outdoor unit power supply. The outdoor system's power disconnect switch will most likely be installed on the outside of your home, close to the heat pump. Make sure it is in the “ON” position.
• Check the indoor unit power supply. The indoor unit has a power switch usually found on the unit itself. It will look like a light switch and should be in the “ON” position.
• Check for tripped circuit breakers. In most cases, the outdoor system will be on a different breaker than the indoor system. Reset if needed.
• Ensure adequate airflow. A heat pump exchanges air from the outside to the inside. Ensure snow, ice, leaves, or other types of debris do not build up on the outdoor unit.
• JUST CALL LINK for service if this does not get your system running.

$50 OFF

Furnace/Boiler Repair*

*Valid on minimum purchase of $275. Cannot be combined with other offers or be applied to Discount Comfort Club or previous offers. Offer valid through March, 2025

Schedule Service

If Your System is Having any of the Following Problems, Call for Service Right Away:

• You notice fluid or water leaking around the system or humidifier.
• Your system is making strange noises or is noisier than usual.
• Your system has a hard time starting up, takes longer than usual to get started, or you notice your lights dim upon start-up.
• Your system runs longer than normal and doesn't keep your home comfortable.

If your system has been giving you grief year after year, here’s a few things to consider between repairing or replacing your system. We offer complimentary No-Cost, No-Obligation Quotes in New Britain CT and West Hartford CT that will provide the information you need to make an informed decision. Ask about our current specials and financing options when you call!