A furnace that stops and starts unexpectedly can turn a cozy home into a stressful situation especially during the cold winter months. Recently, the team at Vive Brant was called to a home where the furnace was producing intermittent heat. The homeowner noticed the system would warm the house briefly, then shut off on its own, and later attempt to restart. While it might seem minor at first, this kind of issue can signal an underlying problem that requires attention.

Understanding the Problem
When we arrived, the furnace initially appeared to function normally. The thermostat called for heat, the burners ignited, and warm air began flowing through the home. But just a short time later, the system shut down unexpectedly. After a brief pause, it tried to start again, only to repeat the cycle.

Even when no error codes are displayed, this type of behavior is often the furnace’s way of protecting itself from a potential hazard. In many cases, intermittent heating is linked to airflow restrictions, safety switch issues, or minor mechanical faults that can escalate if left unresolved.

How We Diagnosed the Issue
Upon closer inspection, our technicians discovered that one of the pressure switches inside the furnace was opening at random intervals. This caused the gas valve to lose power, shutting the furnace down as a safety precaution.
Further investigation revealed that loose exhaust vent connections were affecting airflow, creating brief pressure drops. These small disruptions were enough to trigger the furnace to stop heating even though the problem was subtle and not immediately visible.
Other checks included ensuring the condensate drains were free of obstructions and cleaning the flame sensor to optimize ignition and system reliability.

Restoring Reliable Heat
Once the venting was properly secured, the furnace began operating smoothly. To ensure long-term reliability, our team monitored the system through multiple heating cycles, adjusting and testing as needed. The result was consistent heat, improved efficiency, and peace of mind for the homeowner.

Why Intermittent Heat Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Many homeowners assume brief heating interruptions are minor or thermostat-related, but ignoring these signs can lead to:

• Frequent furnace breakdowns during the coldest months
• Higher energy bills due to inefficient operation
• Shortened furnace lifespan
• Complete loss of heat when you need it most

Even small airflow or venting issues can have a big impact over time. Catching problems early can prevent expensive repairs and keep your home comfortable all winter long.

Furnace Repair You Can Trust in Brantford
The team at Vive Brant has been helping homeowners across Brantford maintain safe, reliable, and efficient heating. From minor adjustments to more complex furnace repairs, we focus on addressing the root cause, not just the symptoms.
If your furnace is shutting off unexpectedly, struggling to maintain heat, or behaving unpredictably, don’t wait until it leaves your home cold.
Furnace problems? Not a problem.

Call Vive Brant today and ensure your home stays warm and comfortable all season long.