Furnace repairs are rarely pleasant, nor do they seem to be needed at an opportune time. No, it isn't the moderately cool day or evening that the furnace quits working; it is inevitably the coldest day of the season that the heat doesn't kick in, as it should! And, of course, that day is after hours, which means you now have the added expense of overtime pay worked into the final cost!

But, what if you could ascertain the cause of the heating malfunction on your own? Perhaps, if you have a few basic skills, you can make either a temporary furnace repair that get you through the immediate need.  To help out the next time you are faced with needing to call a furnace repair company, here are some common solutions to consider.

• It sounds silly, but first be certain that your heater is turned on, and that the temperature switch is turned from "cool" to "heat". Then, note what the temperature is set for. After all, it may simply be that the house is not sufficiently cold enough for the heater to turn on!
• If using a programmable thermostat, be sure that the setting is for the right time of the day, a.m. or p.m.
• Check the battery. If you have had a recent power outage and the battery was dead, then the thermostat will not reset.
• Open the thermostat and gently blow out any dust or dirt that may be interfering with the thermostat and furnace's effectiveness.
• Did you know that if the thermostat is uneven or not properly attached to wall, that it can cause the heater not to work properly? Be sure that it is installed properly.
• When was the last time you changed the filter? A dirty filter can prevent the furnace from working properly. Be sure that you change the filter on your furnace as often as the manufacturer recommends.
• If your furnace is a gas one, be sure that the gas line is turned on. If you have a heating system with pilot light, ensure that it is lit.
• Clean away any leaves or debris from the outside heat pumps or intake/exhaust vents.

Furnace repairs can't always be avoided, but you can do a number of things to keep from always needing to call the HVAC company. If you are the Shoreview area and in need of furnace repair, then call the pros at Aabbott Ferraro to help.