How to Check Your Emergency Switch on Your Gas Furnace or Heat Pump

A-1 American Services has been in business for over 30 years and during that time we have learned a thing or two about what to do when your gas furnace or heat pump goes "caput". Sometimes the simplest solutions work, annnnd... sometimes we need to delve a bit further to find out  the problem.

Checking the emergency switch on your gas furnace or heat pump involves a few simple steps.

1. Locate the Emergency Switch:

• Gas Furnace - The emergency switch is typically a red switch located on or near the furnace unit. It may be mounted on the side of the furnace or on a nearby wall.
• Heat Pump - The emergency switch for a heat pump is typically a red switch located near the outdoor unit. It may be on the unit itself or on a nearby wall.

  2. Check the Switch Position:

• The emergency switch is a toggle switch. Check if it's currently in the "ON" or "OFF" position.

  3. Toggle the Switch:

• If the switch is in the "ON" position and you need to turn off the system for an emergency or maintenance, toggle the switch to the "OFF" position.
• If the switch is in the "OFF" position and you want to turn on the system, toggle the switch to the "ON" position.

  4. Verify System Response:

• Gas Furnace - After toggling the emergency switch, monitor the furnace to ensure it responds accordingly. If there are any issues, or if the system doesn't start (or stop), further investigation may be needed.
• Heat Pump - After toggling the emergency switch, observe the heat pump to ensure it reacts accordingly. If there are any issues or if the system doesn't start or stop, further investigation may be necessary

  5. Resetting the Switch (if applicable):

• Some emergency switches may have a reset button. If the system has shut down due to a safety feature, pressing the reset button may restart the system. Check your user manual for specific instructions.

Always refer to your system's user manual for manufacturer-specific guidance on the emergency switch and any related safety features.

If you encounter problems or are unsure, one of our master techs at A-1 American Services will be happy to help!