A blinking red light on a furnace is never a good sign. If you have noticed this happening with your furnace, it’s important to identify the cause immediately. This blog post discusses what these different types of lights mean and the most common reasons for them appearing on your system, according to electric panel companies in Tacoma, WA.
A blinking red light may appear solid, flashing, or alternating between red and green colors on your furnace control board. The type of light that appears could provide insight into what might be causing the issue with your heating system, so it’s essential to note if any of these different colored lights appear.
According to electric panel companies in Tacoma, WA, the most common causes for a blinking red light are a lack of power, high limit switch tripping, pressure switch trip, flame sensor problem and heat exchanger overheating issues inside the furnace unit itself. Each requires professional attention from an experienced HVAC technician who can diagnose the cause and safely fix it. The sooner the problem is dealt with, the sooner you and your family will be comfortable again.
Lack of Power
If all power has been cut off from the electrical outlet where your plug is, your furnace won’t turn on despite pressing buttons or turning knobs over its control board display panel. Known as a dead short circuit condition, this requires a service call from experienced technicians. Some furnace and air conditioning companies in Tacoma, WA, are available around the clock for emergency calls.
High Limit Switch Tripped
A high limit switch can trip when the furnace runs continuously without being properly shut down. Due to the temperature rising higher than the average operating level, the high limit switches — also referred to as temperature limit switches — will trip off and cut the supply voltage from the main control board. This will result in a no start-up condition upon clicking the ON button. A known indicator of this problem is a slow flash rate on the LED display, informing the user about improper power-up or shutdown.
Pressure Switch Trip
Sometimes, the pressure switch inside the furnace could be triggered due to a blocked vent or chimney. When this happens, it will cut off power from the furnace and cause it to display a blinking red light on its control board.
Flame Sensor Problem
The flame sensor is a crucial component in a gas-powered furnace, as it is responsible for detecting whether there is an ignition occurring when the pilot light is on. Any issues with its parts can cause power loss and result in a blinking red light on your control board.
Heat Exchanger Overheating
One of the most common causes identified by experienced electric panel companies around Tacoma, WA, includes heat exchanger overheating conditions. These occur when the internal temperature reaches beyond safe limits, thereby shutting down automatically and displaying warning signals over LED screens. It’s recommended to call professional HVAC technicians specializing in gas furnace systems and repairs. Doing so avoids causing further damage or wasting time troubleshooting. Most of the time, troubleshooting requires a few weeks for complete repair or replacement.
It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the many different components and potential causes of the dreaded blinking red light on your control board. The internet may offer various suggestions, but it can be confusing, especially when you lack the technical know-how.
For the best service and expertise on your furnace, contact one of the professional HVAC furnace companies in Tacoma, WA. These experienced professionals have the knowledge and equipment to properly diagnose and repair any furnace issue.
All Seasons Inc. in Tacoma, WA, offers a wide range of services to keep your furnace running efficiently all year. Our team of experienced HVAC technicians can quickly diagnose the root cause of the problem and repair it for your peace of mind and comfort. Set up a free consultation with All Seasons Inc. in Tacoma, WA. Contact us at (253) 879-9144 today for professional heating system services.