Cold Night in Las Cruces: Furnace Won’t Start - Safe Troubleshooting Steps Before You Call
If your furnace won’t start, check the thermostat, power switch, breaker, air filter, and vents. However, if you smell gas or notice burning smells or loud noises, shut off the system and call a professional immediately.
Las Cruces homeowners know how quickly desert temperatures can drop at night, especially during winter cold snaps. Without heat, your home can become uncomfortable or even unsafe. Waiting for heater repair is the last thing anyone wants during a chilly evening.
In this guide, learn troubleshooting steps to try if your furnace is not turning on in Las Cruces, NM, before calling a professional HVAC company. For immediate furnace repair, call Air Control Services at 575-567-2608. We’re located at 1945 Cruse Ave, Las Cruces, NM 88005.
Furnace Troubleshooting Steps Las Cruces
If your furnace won’t start in Las Cruces, check the thermostat, breaker, air filter, ignition, and vents for common issues that can trigger a shutdown. Simple steps, such as replacing batteries, resetting the breaker, or clearing a clogged filter, may get your heat running again without requiring a service call.
1. Check the Thermostat Settings
If your thermostat is not calling for heat in Las Cruces, check the temperature and batteries, or restart the system to see if the system responds.
Start by confirming that the thermostat is set to “Heat” mode. If it’s on “Cool,” “Off,” or just running the fan, the heat won’t turn on. Then check the temperature setting. It should be at least 3–5 degrees higher than the current indoor temperature to trigger a heating cycle.
Next, inspect the temperature controller display. If the screen is blank, flickering, or dim, the batteries may be dead. Replace them with fresh ones and wait to see if the system activates.
If the display is on but the system still doesn’t respond, try resetting the thermostat. Turn it off, wait 30 seconds, and turn it back on.
If none of these steps restores the heating unit’s function, the control system may have a wiring fault or internal failure that requires professional repair.
2. Inspect the Furnace Switch and Breaker
If the furnace breaker is tripped, reset it once and monitor the system to see if it starts working again.
Every heating system has a dedicated power switch, usually located on or near the furnace. It often looks like a standard light switch and can get turned off by accident during storage or cleaning. Make sure this switch is in the “On” position. If it’s off, flip it on and give the system a few minutes to respond.
Next, go to your main electrical panel. Look for a circuit labeled “Furnace” or “HVAC.” If the breaker is in the middle position or clearly marked as tripped, flip it fully to the “Off” position, then back to “On.” This resets the power.
A breaker that trips more than once points to an electrical issue within the system. In that case, shut it off and call for professional help.
3. Look at the Furnace Air Filter
A clogged air filter can block airflow and cause the heating system to shut down as a safety measure. Replacing the air filters can restore the heating system’s efficiency.
Over time, dust, pet hair, and other debris collect on the furnace filter. When buildup restricts airflow, the system may overheat or stop working altogether. Common dirty furnace filter symptoms include reduced airflow from vents, uneven heating, rising energy bills, and frequent system cycling.
Check the filter by locating its slot near the blower or return duct. Remove the filter and hold it up to the light. If little or no light passes through, or if the surface is visibly gray and dusty, replace it with a new one having the same size and MERV rating as the old filter.
4. Check the Pilot Light or Ignition
If the furnace ignition is not lighting, inspect the pilot light on older units or listen for clicking in newer models. This may indicate a failed ignitor or ignition control issue.
Older furnaces in Las Cruces often use a standing pilot light. Remove the access panel and look for a small, steady flame. If the flame is out, the heat won’t start. Follow the manufacturer’s relighting instructions if you know how to do it safely.
Don’t relight the pilot if you smell gas! Instead, shut off the system and call for professional help immediately.
Newer heating systems use electronic ignition, such as a hot surface ignitor or spark ignitor. If the furnace ignition is malfunctioning, you may hear repeated clicking or see the system trying and failing to start. This typically indicates a dirty flame sensor, a failed ignitor, or a faulty control board.
Since ignition components are sensitive, don’t attempt to clean the heater yourself. Call our HVAC technician for emergency furnace repairs near you.
5. Inspect the Vents and Intake Pipe
If your furnace won’t start, check the exterior intake and exhaust pipes for blockages that may be restricting airflow or triggering a safety shutoff.
High-efficiency furnaces use PVC pipes to bring in outside air and vent combustion gases. In cold Las Cruces weather, these pipes can become blocked by wind-blown debris, dirt, or even ice. When the airflow is restricted, the heater may shut down automatically to protect the heat exchanger or prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
Step outside and locate the intake and exhaust pipes near the foundation wall. Look for leaves, snow, nests, or other obstructions at the openings. Use your hand (not tools) to clear away any visible debris. Do not stick objects inside the pipe or attempt to disassemble anything.
Indoors, check that supply and return vents are open and not covered by furniture or rugs.
Once airflow is restored, give the furnace a few minutes to restart. If it still doesn’t come on, contact us for HVAC services at 575-567-2608.
When to Call for Emergency HVAC Service Las Cruces NM
If your furnace still isn’t running after you’ve checked the thermostat, breaker, filter, ignition, and vents, it’s time to call a professional HVAC company.
Persistent no-heat problems, repeated breaker trips, unusual smells, or ignition failures all point to issues that should not be handled without proper training.
For homes with gas heating, scheduling a gas furnace safety check in Las Cruces is especially important. A technician can inspect the heat exchanger, gas connections, ignition components, and venting system to make sure your unit is running safely and efficiently. This reduces the risk of carbon monoxide leaks, fires, and unexpected shutdowns during cold nights.
Call Us for Furnace Repair in Las Cruces
Don’t wait in the cold. Whether your furnace stopped working suddenly or you need a gas safety check, Air Control Services is here to help.
We offer after-hours furnace repair in Las Cruces to keep your home safe and warm, no matter the time.
Call 575-567-2608 now to schedule an immediate service. We’re located at 1945 Cruse Ave, Las Cruces, NM 88005.
FAQ
Why is my air conditioner blowing warm air in winter?
Even if your AC isn’t actively cooling, it may still run the fan. If it’s blowing warm air, the system may be stuck in fan mode, or there could be a control setting issue.
Can I use a heat pump all year in Las Cruces?
Heat pumps are designed for both warm and cool climates and can run year-round. In summer, they cool the space, and in cooler months, they reverse to maintain comfort.
What’s usually included in HVAC maintenance plans?
Most maintenance plans cover seasonal inspections, filter replacements, coil cleaning, and system tune-ups. These plans help catch small problems early and keep your system working efficiently throughout the year.
How can I improve air conditioning efficiency in Las Cruces homes?
To get better performance from your air conditioning, make sure vents are clear, filters are clean, and the outdoor unit isn’t blocked by dirt or debris. Regular tune-ups also help lower energy use without sacrificing comfort.