My furnace is not igniting. What are some repair services I can call in Wichita?

When Your Wichita Furnace Refuses to Light: Understanding Your Options

My furnace is not igniting. What are some repair services I can call in Wichita? A furnace that won't light during a Kansas cold snap leaves your home vulnerable to freezing temperatures and can signal safety issues like gas leaks or carbon monoxide risks. Fortunately, Wichita has qualified HVAC professionals ready to diagnose and repair ignition problems quickly. Whether your pilot light is out, your electronic ignitor has failed, or your furnace just clicks, understanding your options is key to restoring heat and safety.

Quick Answer: Wichita Furnace Repair Services

When your furnace won't ignite, you can call:

• 24/7 Emergency HVAC Services - For after-hours heating failures
• Licensed Furnace Repair Technicians - For diagnostic and ignition system repair
• Full-Service HVAC Companies - For comprehensive furnace maintenance and repair
• Gas Furnace Specialists - For pilot light and gas valve issues

For comprehensive heating solutions in Wichita, explore heating services or schedule a repair consultation with a qualified technician today.

Furnace ignition problems account for roughly 25% of all heating repair calls in Wichita. While some issues like dirty filters are simple fixes, others like faulty ignitors or gas valve failures require professional attention. This guide walks you through common ignition issues, what you can safely check yourself, and when to call for expert help in the Wichita area.

Why Won't My Furnace Ignite? Common Causes and Signs

When your furnace won't fire up on a cold Wichita night, understanding the cause can help you determine if it's a quick fix or a job for a professional. Your furnace displays specific signs when it refuses to ignite, and learning to read them makes all the difference.

Understanding Your Furnace's Ignition System

To troubleshoot why my furnace is not igniting, it helps to know how your furnace lights.

• A standing pilot light is a small, continuous flame that ignites the main burners when the thermostat calls for heat. If this flame goes out, you lose heat.
• Intermittent pilot systems are more efficient, using an electronic spark to light a pilot only when heat is needed. The pilot then ignites the main burners.
• Modern furnaces often use a hot surface ignitor (HSI), a ceramic part that glows red-hot (around 2,500°F) to ignite the gas. It's safer and more energy-efficient.
• Direct spark ignition systems use an electrical spark to light the main burners directly, similar to a car's spark plug, eliminating the need for a pilot light.

Each system has unique failure points. To learn more about pilot lights, our guide on Furnace Pilot Light covers the details.

Telltale Signs of an Ignition Problem

Learning to interpret your furnace's sounds and behaviors can help you spot an ignition problem.

• A clicking sound without ignition is a common clue. The system tries to light but fails to complete the sequence.
• If the blower runs but pushes only cold air, the fan is working, but the burners aren't lighting to heat the air.
• Frequent cycling (short-cycling) occurs when the furnace repeatedly tries to start and fails. This is inefficient and causes excess wear on the system.
• An unresponsive thermostat, where the furnace doesn't start or produce heat when you turn it up, can indicate an ignition problem or a communication issue.

These symptoms are your furnace's way of waving a red flag. For more details, see our article on Signs You Need Furnace Repairs.

Common Culprits Behind Ignition Failure

Several common issues can cause ignition failure in Wichita homes.

• A dirty air filter is a simple but frequent cause. It restricts airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and shut down as a safety precaution.
• A faulty ignitor is a common problem in modern furnaces. These electronic components can crack or wear out, preventing them from getting hot enough to light the gas.
• The flame sensor is a safety device that confirms a flame is present. If it's dirty or faulty, it can't detect the flame and will shut off the gas supply, leaving you without heat.
• Gas supply issues, such as a closed valve or a malfunctioning furnace gas valve, will prevent ignition.
• Thermostat problems can also be the culprit. If the thermostat is faulty or set incorrectly, it won't send the signal for the furnace to start.

Our guide on Common Furnace Repair Issues provides more insight. For specific information about ignition failures, visit our page on Furnace Not Igniting.

DIY Troubleshooting Steps Before You Call for Service

Before calling for service for a furnace that won't ignite, try these simple and safe troubleshooting steps. They might solve the problem and save you a service call.

Your Pre-Call Checklist: Simple Fixes to Try First

Start with these quick checks for easy fixes that could restore your heat.

• Check your thermostat settings. Ensure it's set to "Heat" and the temperature is higher than the current room temperature. Replace the batteries if it has them, as dead batteries prevent communication with the furnace.
• Inspect and replace the air filter. A clogged filter restricts airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and shut down. If you can't see light through it, replace it. Check filters monthly and replace them every 1-3 months. For more tips, see our guide on Furnace Maintenance Essential Tips.
• Reset the circuit breaker. Find the breaker labeled "Furnace" or "HVAC." If it's tripped, flip it completely off, then back on. Wait five minutes for the furnace's internal controls to reset.
• Verify the gas valve is open. The valve, usually near the furnace with a red or yellow handle, is open when the handle is parallel to the pipe. If it's perpendicular, turn it to the open position. For more tips, see our article on how to Repair an Unresponsive Heater.

Addressing Specific Ignition Systems

Depending on your furnace's ignition system, you can perform a few specific checks.

• For a standing pilot light, you can try relighting it if you feel comfortable and do not smell gas. If you smell gas, stop immediately and call for help. To relight it, turn the control knob to "Off" and wait five minutes. Then, turn the knob to "Pilot," press and hold it down while lighting the pilot with a long lighter. Continue holding the knob for about a minute after it lights, then release it slowly. If it stays lit, turn the knob to "On." If the pilot won't stay lit, it indicates a deeper problem, and you should call a professional. Our Furnace Pilot Light guide has more details.
• For electronic ignition, observe the startup sequence through the viewing window. A hot surface ignitor should glow red, while a direct spark system will produce rapid clicks. No glow or spark suggests a faulty ignitor. Clicking and a gas smell without a flame could be a bad ignitor or a dirty flame sensor. No activity at all could point to a bad gas valve or control board.

These DIY steps can help diagnose simple issues when my furnace is not igniting. However, if you're ever unsure or feel unsafe, call a professional. It's always the safest choice. If your furnace is blowing cold air, our article on Furnace Blowing Cold Air might help.

Safety First: When to Immediately Call a Professional

While some troubleshooting is safe for homeowners, certain furnace problems pose serious safety risks and require immediate professional help. Knowing when to stop and call an expert is essential for your family's protection.

Critical Safety Warnings for a Furnace That Won't Ignite

When my furnace is not igniting, these warning signs indicate serious hazards that demand an immediate call to a professional.

• The smell of gas (like rotten eggs) is a critical warning. If you smell it, evacuate everyone immediately. Do not use light switches or phones inside. Once safely outside, call your gas company's emergency line (Kansas Gas Service at 888-492-4950 or Black Hills Energy at (888) 890-5554). After reporting the leak, contact a qualified HVAC professional. For more details, visit our guide on Furnace Gas.
• A yellow or flickering pilot light is another red flag. A healthy flame is steady and blue. A yellow flame indicates incomplete combustion, which can produce carbon monoxide.
• Soot streaks around your furnace also signal combustion problems. A properly working furnace should burn cleanly.
• A circuit breaker that keeps tripping after a reset points to an electrical fault. Continuously resetting it is a fire hazard and requires professional diagnosis.

If you notice these signs, stop and call for help. Our article on how to Recognize Urgent HVAC Repair Needs offers more guidance.

The Importance of Professional Diagnostics for Your Safety

A malfunctioning furnace can pose hidden, long-term health risks, making professional diagnostics essential.

• Carbon monoxide is a silent danger. This odorless, colorless gas is produced by improper combustion and can be fatal. Symptoms mimic the flu (headaches, dizziness, nausea). Ensure you have working CO detectors on every level of your home. If an alarm sounds, evacuate immediately and call for help.
• Electrical hazards like faulty wiring or worn components can cause fires. The complex wiring inside a furnace should only be handled by a licensed technician.
• A malfunctioning furnace can worsen your indoor air quality. It may circulate dust and contaminants, which is harmful for those with allergies or respiratory issues. According to EPA studies, indoor air can be significantly more polluted than outdoor air.

Professional diagnostics do more than fix the ignition; they ensure your entire system operates safely. For more on this, visit our page on Signs Your Heating System Needs Repair.

My furnace is not igniting. What are some repair services I can call in Wichita?

When you've tried safe DIY troubleshooting and your furnace still won't ignite, it's time to call the professionals. Finding a reliable furnace repair service in Wichita shouldn't add to the stress of a cold home.

How to choose a repair service in Wichita when your furnace is not igniting

When your furnace won't ignite, choosing the right Wichita repair service is crucial. Here’s what to look for.

• Check for 24/7 emergency availability. Heating systems often fail after hours, so a reliable company should offer round-the-clock service.
• Read customer reviews. Check platforms like Google and the Better Business Bureau to gauge a company's reliability and professionalism. You can check local business ratings to see how they handle concerns.
• Verify local presence. Local technicians understand Wichita's climate and common heating issues, leading to faster, more accurate repairs.
• Ask about transparent communication. A good technician will clearly explain the problem, the proposed repair, and answer your questions.

For more guidance, visit our Wichita Heating Repair Guide 2025.

What to expect when you call for furnace repair in Wichita

When you call us because my furnace is not igniting, we follow a professional process to restore your heat safely and quickly.

• Thorough System Diagnostics: Our technicians use advanced tools to inspect the entire system and find the root cause of the failure.
• Ignitor and Flame Sensor Service: We inspect, clean, test, and replace these critical components as needed.
• Gas Valve and Burner Cleaning: We ensure the gas valve functions correctly and that burners are clear of debris for proper ignition.
• Control Board Testing: We test the furnace's "brain" to ensure it's sending the correct signals for the heating sequence.
• Safety Checks: After every repair, we test for gas leaks, carbon monoxide, and proper combustion to ensure your system is operating safely.

Our commitment is to prompt, accurate, and lasting repairs. Learn more about our process to Schedule Heater Repair Services.

Information to Have Ready When You Call for Service

To help us serve you faster, please have the following information ready when you call:

• Furnace Make and Model: This is usually on a sticker on the unit and helps us prepare for the visit.
• Age of the Unit: This helps us determine whether a repair or replacement is the more sensible option. Our guide on How Long Can Your Furnace Last? can help.
• Detailed Description of the Problem: Note any sounds, smells, or specific behaviors (e.g., blowing cold air).
• List of Troubleshooting Steps You've Taken: Tell us if you've already checked the filter, thermostat, or breaker to save time during diagnosis.

For more tips, read our Furnace Repair Wichita, KS Guide.

Frequently Asked Questions about Furnace Ignition Problems

Many Wichita homeowners have questions when their furnace won't ignite. Here are straightforward answers to some of the most common ones.

How often should I change my furnace filter?

Change your furnace filter regularly to prevent many issues, including ignition failure. Check it monthly and replace it at least every 90 days. Homes with pets or allergies may need more frequent changes (every 30-60 days). A clogged filter restricts airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and shut down as a safety measure.

Regular maintenance is your best defense against costly repairs. For more tips, check out our article on Furnace Maintenance for System Efficiency.

What's the difference between a furnace that won't ignite and one that blows cold air?

Though both leave you cold, these are different problems. A furnace that won't ignite fails to produce a flame, pointing to an issue with the ignitor, flame sensor, or gas supply. You might hear clicking, but no heat is generated.

A furnace blowing cold air may be producing heat, but it isn't reaching your vents. This could be due to a severely clogged filter, incorrect fan settings ("on" instead of "auto"), or ductwork problems. Our guide on Furnace Blowing Cold Air dives deeper into this issue.

Is it worth repairing an old furnace with ignition issues?

Deciding whether to repair or replace an old furnace depends on a few key factors.

• Furnace Age: A furnace over 15 years old with ignition problems may be nearing the end of its lifespan, making replacement a more cost-effective option in the long run.
• Repair Frequency: If your furnace needs frequent repairs, it's a sign that it's becoming unreliable, and replacement might be a better investment.
• Energy Efficiency: Older furnaces are much less efficient (60-70% AFUE) than modern ones (90%+ AFUE). A new unit can lead to significant savings on your energy bills.
• The "50% Rule": If a repair costs more than half the price of a new furnace, replacement is often the smarter financial choice.

We can help you make an informed, pressure-free decision by assessing your furnace's condition and explaining your options. For more guidance, see our article How Long Can Your Furnace Last?.

Conclusion: Restoring Warmth and Safety to Your Wichita Home

When my furnace is not igniting during a frigid Wichita winter, it's a problem that needs prompt attention. We've covered common causes, from dirty filters to faulty ignitors, and the safe DIY steps you can try before calling for service.

The key takeaway is that while some fixes are simple, many ignition problems require a professional. Your safety is paramount. If you smell gas, see a yellow pilot light, or notice other critical warning signs, don't hesitate—call for professional help immediately.

We understand the stress of a heating failure and are committed to providing prompt, reliable service to our Wichita neighbors. Our experienced technicians perform thorough diagnostics to ensure your system is fixed correctly and operates safely, restoring your comfort and peace of mind.

Whether you need an emergency repair or want to schedule routine maintenance to prevent future issues, we are here to help. Timely service extends your furnace's life and keeps your home comfortable. Don't wait in the cold—reach out to us for your heating needs and let us restore warmth and safety to your home.