How to Jump Furnace for Heat: The Ultimate Guide to Warmth
What To Know
- While calling a professional HVAC technician is always the safest and most reliable option, there are situations where you might want to try a temporary fix, known as “jumping the furnace.
- A limit switch is a safety device that shuts off the furnace if it gets too hot.
- Jumping a furnace is a risky procedure that should only be attempted as a last resort.
Are you shivering in your home, staring at a cold furnace, and wondering how to get some warmth? You’re not alone. Winter can be brutal, and sometimes, your furnace decides to take a break when you need it most. While calling a professional HVAC technician is always the safest and most reliable option, there are situations where you might want to try a temporary fix, known as “jumping the furnace.” This guide will explain what jumping a furnace entails, when it’s appropriate, and the risks involved. We’ll also provide you with step-by-step instructions and safety tips for tackling this task. Let’s dive in and learn how to jump furnace for heat!
What Does Jumping a Furnace Mean?
“Jumping a furnace” is a DIY solution to get your heating system running when it’s malfunctioning. It involves bypassing the furnace’s safety controls, particularly the thermostat and limit switch, to force the burner to ignite. This is usually a temporary fix, as it bypasses essential safety features designed to prevent overheating and other hazardous situations.
Why Would You Need to Jump a Furnace?
There are specific situations where jumping a furnace might seem like a quick fix, but it’s crucial to understand the risks before considering this approach:
- Faulty Thermostat: If your thermostat is malfunctioning, it might not be sending the signal to your furnace to turn on. Jumping the furnace can temporarily bypass the thermostat and allow the furnace to run.
- Stuck Limit Switch: A limit switch is a safety device that shuts off the furnace if it gets too hot. If the limit switch gets stuck, it might prevent the furnace from turning on. Jumping the furnace can bypass the limit switch and allow the furnace to run.
- Faulty Ignition System: Sometimes, the ignition system in your furnace might fail. Jumping the furnace can bypass the ignition system and allow the burner to ignite manually.
Understanding the Risks of Jumping a Furnace
Jumping a furnace is a risky procedure that should only be attempted as a last resort. Here are some of the potential dangers:
- Fire Hazard: Bypassing safety controls like the limit switch can lead to overheating and potentially a fire.
- Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: A malfunctioning furnace can produce carbon monoxide, a deadly gas.
- Electrical Shock: Working with electrical components in a furnace can be hazardous and lead to electric shock.
- Voiding Warranty: Attempting to repair your furnace yourself could void any existing warranties.
When NOT to Jump Your Furnace
There are several situations where jumping your furnace is absolutely not recommended:
- Gas Leak: If you suspect a gas leak, never attempt to jump your furnace. Call your gas company immediately.
- Electrical Problems: If you notice any electrical issues with your furnace, such as sparks or flickering lights, do not attempt to jump it.
- No Experience: If you don’t have any experience working with furnaces, it’s best to leave this task to a professional.
How to Jump a Furnace for Heat: A Step-by-Step Guide
Note: This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional advice. If you are unsure about anything, please consult a qualified HVAC technician.
Before You Begin:
- Turn off the power to your furnace. Locate the circuit breaker that controls your furnace and turn it off.
- Turn off the gas supply. Locate the gas valve for your furnace and turn it off.
- Wear safety gear. Always wear safety glasses, gloves, and closed-toe shoes when working with your furnace.
- Have a fire extinguisher nearby. In case of a fire, you’ll need a fire extinguisher readily available.
Steps to Jump a Furnace:
1. Locate the limit switch. This is usually a small, round switch located near the burner.
2. Identify the terminals. The limit switch will have two terminals.
3. Connect a jumper wire. Use a wire with insulated ends to connect the two terminals on the limit switch. This will bypass the switch and allow the furnace to run.
4. Turn on the gas supply.
5. Turn on the power to your furnace.
6. Check for ignition. If the furnace ignites, you have successfully jumped it.
Important Notes:
- Use caution when working with electrical components.
- Do not touch the burner or any other hot components.
- Run the furnace for a short period only. Jumping the furnace is a temporary fix.
What to Do After Jumping Your Furnace
Once you have successfully jumped your furnace, it’s crucial to take the following steps:
- Monitor the furnace closely. Keep an eye on the furnace for any signs of overheating, unusual noises, or smells.
- Turn off the furnace immediately if you notice any problems.
- Call a professional HVAC technician. Jumping your furnace is not a permanent solution. Contact a qualified HVAC technician to diagnose and repair the underlying problem.
Alternatives to Jumping Your Furnace
Before resorting to jumping your furnace, consider these alternatives:
- Check the thermostat batteries. A dead thermostat battery can prevent your furnace from working.
- Reset the circuit breaker. A tripped circuit breaker can also stop your furnace from operating.
- Check the air filter. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause your furnace to overheat.
The Bottom Line: When to Call a Pro
Jumping a furnace can seem like a quick fix, but it’s generally not a safe or reliable solution. It’s best to call a qualified HVAC technician to diagnose and repair any furnace problems. Professional technicians have the experience, tools, and knowledge to safely and effectively address furnace issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is jumping a furnace always a bad idea?
While jumping a furnace can be risky, it might be a temporary solution in some cases. However, it’s crucial to understand the risks involved and only attempt it as a last resort.
2. What if I can’t get my furnace to ignite after jumping it?
If you can’t get your furnace to ignite after jumping it, it’s likely that there’s a more serious problem with the furnace. You should call a qualified HVAC technician to diagnose and repair the issue.
3. How long can I safely run my furnace after jumping it?
It’s not recommended to run your furnace for extended periods after jumping it. This is a temporary fix, and you should contact a professional as soon as possible to address the underlying problem.
4. Can jumping a furnace void my warranty?
Yes, attempting to repair your furnace yourself can void any existing warranties. It’s always best to contact a qualified HVAC technician to avoid voiding your warranty.
5. Is jumping a furnace legal?
Jumping a furnace might be considered tampering with your heating system, which could violate local building codes or ordinances. It’s best to consult with your local authorities to understand the specific regulations in your area.
**Remember, safety should always be your top priority when dealing with your furnace. If you have any doubts, don’t hesitate to call a professional for help.