How to Fix: furnace runs for a few minutes then stops

How to Fix: Furnace Blower Starts & Then Stops Immediately

Furnace Problem Fix

If your furnace runs for a few minutes and then stops, here are a few tips to get it running again:

Check electrical connections to heating elements

If your furnace runs for a few minutes and then stops, there may be an electrical connection issue. To check for an electrical connection, follow these steps:

• Shut off the power to your furnace by turning off the breaker or switch.
• Check the continuity of all outdoor wiring to your furnace.
• Check the continuity of all indoor wiring to your furnace.
• Check all electrical connections in and around your furnace.
• Reconnect any wires that are not in good condition, and replace any damaged connectors.

Adjust thermostat to minimum temperature

If your furnace is not running, it could be because the thermostat is set too high or too low. Here are a few tips to help adjust the thermostat to the minimum temperature:

• Open the windows and allow air circulation throughout the home. It increases heating and cooling efficiency.
•  Check to see if your furnace has been overworked. If it has, consider replacing worn or broken parts.
• Go through your home’s insulation to ensure it is properly sealed and installed. It will help keep your furnace running optimally during cold weather months.
• Clean out any dust or debris blocking your furnace’s heat exchanger (aka blower) from working correctly.
• Reset your thermostat by rotating it 360 degrees clockwise before adjusting it if necessary.

Check the blower motor speed

If your furnace runs for a few minutes and then suddenly stops, there could be a problem with the blower motor. Here are steps to checking the blower motor speed:

• Turn off the power to the furnace by turning off the breaker or switch.
• With the power off, look at the wires leading from the breaker panel to the furnace. There should be two black and two white wires out of the panel - black is for ground, and white is for power.
• Touch one end of each wire to each other (making sure they're both hot) and turn on the power to the furnace by flipping the breaker back on.
• Watch as the fan turns on - if it's not running at its normal speed, recheck your wiring and try step 3 again.

Disconnect and clean any dust buildup around fan motor

If your furnace runs for a few minutes and suddenly stops, there may be dust buildup on the fan motor. To disconnect and clean the fan motor, follow these steps: Turn off power to the furnace at the breaker box. Open the front cover of the furnace and remove the fan plate. Clean any dust or debris around the fan motor with a vacuum cleaner. Reinstall the fan plate and turn on the power to the furnace.

Replace filter element

Check the filters- If the filters are dirty or not installed correctly, they can cause the furnace to run intermittently and then stop. Open the filter door and check if debris is blocking the filter intake or outlet. If so, clean it using a vacuum cleaner with a crevice tool and a brush. Make sure that all the surrounding areas around the filter have been swept and cleaned. Replace any dirty or malfunctioning filters immediately.

Check for obstructions in the ductwork- It could be caused by pieces of insulation, rags, dust, etc., which can block airflow and cause the furnace to run constantly or intermittently until they are cleared away.

Clean and lubricate moving parts

Many homeowners are unaware of the importance of regularly cleaning and lubricating their furnace’s moving parts. If not routinely done, dirt and dust can build up on the internal workings of your furnace, eventually causing it to run poorly or stop altogether.

• Clean the exterior of your furnace every four months by using a hose and bucket. Remove any leaves, grass, or other debris accumulated on the unit.
• Once a year, clean all internal parts of your furnace with a vacuum cleaner and lube. It will help keep corrosion at bay and ensure that your furnace runs smoothly.
• If you experience periodic problems with your furnace, check all the moving parts for excessive wear or damage.

Make sure heat exchanger is clear of debris

The best way to stay warm in the winter is to have your heating and cooling system running at total capacity. However, if your furnace stops running for a few minutes and starts up again, you may have a debris problem. Here are easy steps to take to clear the heat exchanger of debris: 

• Check for obstructions in the ductwork. 
• Clear any blockages with a snake or plunger. 
• Turn off all power to the system, then open all registers and flues. 
• Use an aspirator to remove particles from the heat exchanger walls and channels. 
• Wipe down the inside of the heat exchanger with a damp cloth or mild soap and water. 
• Replace any filters that have become clogged over time.

Following these simple tips, you can get your furnace back up and running in no time!