There are numerous ways to heat your home. One of the most popular in many regions--where electricity is less expensive than other fuels--is with an electric furnace. Other ways of heating homes include gas and oil furnaces, steam boilers, and wall or freestanding electric heaters.

How Does It Work?

An electric furnace is a simple device that uses heating elements to warm air for distribution. If you're not getting heat, first check the unit's breaker or fuse panel.

An electric furnace uses electrical energy to warm air for distribution throughout the home. An electric forced-air heating (EFA) system includes a heating element, comfort controls, and a forced-air distribution system, each covered in other guides. The source of power, electricity, runs through the electrical service panel .

What Can Go Wrong?

The furnace may not come on. The system may not produce enough heat. The furnace may short cycle (turn on and off repeatedly). The blower may run continuously. The furnace may be noisy.

Fix-It Tip

Don't try to repair electric furnace heating elements or other major electrical components. Refer to the Heating Element Fix-It Guide and other fix-it guides for troubleshooting information and call a professional HVAC (heat-ventilation-air conditioning) technician for service.