Let our years of experience walk you through the procedure and show you exactly how to wire a furnace switch if you’re unsure of how to do it.
Generally speaking, a safety furnace switch must be installed in every combustible type furnace. This is typically found as soon as you enter the room where the furnace is. The power supply is typically wired on the line side so that it can be shut off in an emergency.
How Do Disconnect Switches Work?
There is a disconnect switch for the furnace that is visible from the furnace. It is typically mounted on the furnace’s side or a nearby wall. A disconnect switch typically resembles a standard wall switch exactly.
Today, a dedicated circuit is necessary for the majority of Pasadena residential furnace installations. Because it is a dedicated circuit, the furnace should be the only system receiving power from it. By having its own circuit breaker in the breaker box (service panel), this circuit is self-sufficient. From the service panel to the disconnect switch, the circuit wiring travels to the furnace.
You can maintain safety whenever you work on the furnace with the aid of a disconnect switch. For instance, you can use the disconnect to turn off the power to the furnace’s circuit during a repair or inspection. It provides convenience as well as an additional layer of protection. It ensures that even if the circuit breaker is accidentally left on, no power will be provided to the furnace.
What Is the Furnace Switch For?Michael Clark, founder of
Once youve located the switch, take the following simple troubleshooting steps to determine reasons why your
Where is the Power Switch on a Furnace?
Where is a furnace’s power switch likely to be your first concern. You can find your furnace on the unit itself or close to the rafters. The switch will look like a typical light switch, but it most likely won’t have any labels. In general, it should be turned off. Whatever the case, it will be reachable by your furnace and simple to get to if there are issues.
Next, you’ll need to locate the main circuit breaker panel. This will be located in a basement or attic. You’ll need to access the panel to reset the breaker. Flip the paddle the other way to reset the power switch. Once you locate the switch, you can reactivate the furnace. This will also reset the circuit breaker. Your particular model may have it in a cabinet.
You’ll probably need to relight the pilot light if you’re fixing an older furnace. Although the owner’s manual will provide instructions, even a moderately skilled homeowner can complete this task. Make sure the gas valve is not locked and that you are comfortable handling fire. After completing these steps, you can replace the access panel and turn back on the gas and electricity. However, make sure to carefully read the owner’s manual before you do that.
You might want to install a lockable breaker depending on your furnace. This will prevent accidents, but it’s not the best solution because it creates a safety hazard. You must hire a qualified HVAC technician if you don’t have a lockable switch. You can install a disconnect switch close to your furnace if it doesn’t already have one if your furnace doesn’t have a lockable breaker.