Restarting Furnace After Running Out Of Propane
Running out of propane for your furnace can be a major inconvenience, especially during the colder months. It is essential to know how to properly restart your furnace after running out of propane. Fortunately, restarting a furnace is a relatively simple process that can be done with the proper safety precautions.
Safety Considerations Before Restarting Furnace After Running Out Of Propane
Before beginning the restarting process, it is important to remember that propane is a flammable gas and can be dangerous if not handled properly. Before restarting your furnace, make sure all the valves are closed and there are no leaks. If you detect a leak, you should call a professional to repair it before restarting the furnace. Additionally, make sure the area is well-ventilated. If you experience any symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, such as dizziness, headaches, or nausea, evacuate the area and contact a professional immediately.
Steps To Restarting Furnace After Running Out Of Propane
Once you have checked for leaks and ensured the area is ventilated, you can begin the process of restarting your furnace. The first step is to turn off the propane tank and wait at least 10 minutes. After 10 minutes, you can turn the propane tank back on and open the valves. Once the valves are open, you can turn the furnace on. Depending on the furnace model, you may have to press a reset button or turn the thermostat up to begin the restarting process.
Checking The Ignition System
Once the furnace is running, it is important to check the ignition system. You should listen for a “whooshing” noise, which indicates an adequate flow of gas. If you do not hear this noise, turn the furnace off and check the connections to the gas valve. Make sure all the connections are tight. If they are loose, tighten them and restart the furnace.
Checking The Flame Sensor
The flame sensor ensures the furnace is burning the gas safely and efficiently. To check the flame sensor, open the furnace door and inspect the flame. If the flame is yellow, orange, or fluttering, you should check the flame sensor. If the flame is blue, it indicates the flame sensor is working properly. If it is not, you should contact a professional to replace it.
Checking The Thermostat
The last step in the restarting process is to check the thermostat. Make sure the thermostat is set to the desired temperature and that the furnace is responding accordingly. If the furnace is not responding, check the batteries in the thermostat. If the batteries are dead, replace them and reset the thermostat.
Conclusion
Restarting a furnace after running out of propane is a relatively simple process that can be done with a few safety precautions. Before begin the process, make sure the area is well-ventilated and there are no gas leaks. Once the safety considerations have been taken care of, you can turn the furnace on and check the ignition system, flame sensor, and thermostat. If you are unsure of any of the steps, it is best to contact a professional for assistance.