KitchenAid Furnace: Won't Start or Turn On
Commonly a faulty igniter, a dirty flame sensor, or a blower or control fault. Add a photo of your KitchenAid Furnace in the box below: the Triage Profile says what it is, how urgent it is, and who to call.
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In the next five minutes
Safe first steps, before the call. Nothing here needs a tool.
If you smell gas, a carbon monoxide alarm sounds, or anyone feels dizzy or sick: don’t touch any switch or plug, leave and get everyone out, then call 911 or the gas company from outside.
No gas smell? Switch the furnace off at the thermostat and at its breaker.
Don’t use it again until it’s checked, and keep people away from it.
Everything else about this problem
Is it an emergency?
Is a KitchenAid furnace that won't start an emergency?
Usually not, but it can be. Because this can be an emergency, leave it off and get it checked; don't reset it or turn it back on. Stop and call a pro if it keeps tripping the breaker, smells like burning, or you smell gas.
Symptoms & causes
The KitchenAid furnace is completely unresponsive, showing no signs of power, fan operation, or ignition attempts. This often indicates a complete power loss to the unit or a critical safety lockout preventing any operation. Common root causes include a tripped circuit breaker, a faulty thermostat not sending a call for heat, or a problem with the furnace's main power switch or control board.
Tools & parts
A multimeter is essential for testing electrical continuity and voltage at various points. You will also need a screwdriver set (Phillips and flathead) for accessing panels and a new air filter. Specific parts like a new flame sensor or ignitor might be needed, if tests point to their failure.
Safety first
Always begin by shutting off the electrical power to the KitchenAid furnace at the main breaker panel to prevent electrocution. Additionally, turn off the gas supply valve to the furnace to eliminate any risk of gas leaks or explosions during inspection. Be aware of sharp edges inside the furnace and potential for hot surfaces if the unit recently attempted to run, wearing gloves is advisable.
When to call a pro
A professional technician is required if the control board is suspected to be faulty, as checking and replacing this complex component requires specialized knowledge and tools. Issues involving gas valve malfunctions or persistent gas leaks demand immediate professional intervention due to severe safety risks. If the heat exchanger is cracked, which can lead to carbon monoxide leaks, a professional must condemn the unit and recommend replacement, as this is a critical safety failure.
Questions people ask
Why is my KitchenAid furnace not turning on even though the thermostat is set to heat?
First, check your circuit breaker for a tripped switch, as this is a common electrical interruption. Also, ensure the furnace's power switch, usually located near the unit, is in the 'On' position.
Could a dirty air filter prevent my KitchenAid furnace from starting?
Yes, a severely clogged air filter can restrict airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and trigger a safety lockout, preventing it from starting. Replacing a dirty filter is a simple first step in troubleshooting.
What does it mean if my KitchenAid furnace clicks but doesn't ignite?
This often indicates an issue with the ignition system, such as a dirty or faulty flame sensor or a failing ignitor. The furnace attempts to light but fails to detect a flame, leading to a safety shutdown.
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What it is, how urgent, who to call
Add a photo of your KitchenAid Furnace in the box at the top. The Triage Profile says what it is, how urgent it is, and who to call.