How to Check Your Emergency Switch on Your Gas Furnace or Heat Pump
January 25, 2024
Virginia's crazy weather can really do a number on your heat pump and/or furnace!
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.
- 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!
First, a little background on Labor Day and how it came to play into American history. Labor Day is celebrated to honor the contributions and achievements of American workers and the labor movement. It recognizes the role of workers in building the strength, prosperity, and well-being of the country. The Holiday began in the late 19th century, during a time when working conditions were often harsh—long hours, unsafe workplaces, and little time off were common. Labor unions pushed for better conditions, fair wages, and reasonable workdays. The first Labor Day parade took place in New York City in 1882, organized by the Central Labor Union. In 1894, after years of growing support and following major labor strikes, Congress officially made Labor Day a federal holiday. It’s observed on the first Monday in September, serving both as a tribute to workers and as a symbolic “end of summer” celebration. Not to be confused with International Workers’ Day which is celebrated May 1st worldwide and focuses more on activism and workers’ rights, Labor Day focuses more as a tribute to workers with family time, picnics, parades, and community events like our concer series at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront. Hampton Roads -- which encompasses the Penninsula (Williamsburg, Newport News, and Hampton) AND South Side (Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Chesapeake, and Suffolk) has always been a working community, from the shipbuilders at Newport News Shipbuilding, to the longshoremen at the Port of Virginia, to the military and civil service workers who keep our bases running. Labor Day really ties into that history because it’s a reminder of how much the region’s workforce has shaped the local economy and even national security. For many families here, Labor Day is also (for the lucky) the last long weekend before school starts, so you’ll see people heading to the beach at Virginia Beach, picnicking at local parks, or attending community events. It’s both a recognition of hard work and a chance for people in Hampton Roads to pause, recharge, and enjoy the fruits of their labor before the busy fall season kicks in. From the A-1 American Services family to yours... Please have a safe and happy Labor Day!! And if you find you need help with any clogs, water heater leaks, HVAC hiccups, clooged toilets our guys are standing by ready to help you and your family at a moments notice!
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Our team of experienced technicians can handle just about anything your home heating and cooling system might need. When you contact us, you can expect responsive, professional service and transparent pricing every time!
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