As the harsh cold weather arrives, you will most likely rely on the furnace more. Furnaces are amazing machines that keep the house warm and comfy. Like all machines, furnaces are also made up of several components to become functional. One such important component is the “Furnace Switch.”

Also known as the furnace disconnect switch, it helps you turn it on or off. Along with other benefits, it allows furnace services in Pasadena to disconnect the power supply without going to the main circuit panel. So, let’s take a deeper look into what a disconnect switch is and how it works.

How Do Disconnect Switches Work?

A furnace disconnect switch is present within sight of the furnace itself. You can see it usually mounted on the side of the furnace or an adjacent wall. Generally, a disconnect switch looks exactly like an ordinary wall switch.

Now, most residential furnace installation in Pasadena requires a dedicated circuit. A dedicated circuit means that it should not supply power to any other system other than the furnace. This circuit works independently by including its circuit breaker in the breaker box (service panel). The circuit wiring starts from the service panel to the disconnect switch and reaches the furnace.

A disconnect switch can help you maintain safety whenever you work on the furnace. For example, during a furnace repair or inspection, you can shut off the power to the furnace’s circuit through the disconnect. Apart from adding convenience, it also acts as an additional safety feature. It ensures no power is supplied to the furnace even if the circuit breaker remains on accidentally.

What Are The Types of Disconnect Switches?

Furnace disconnect switches can be of two types:

• A single-pole switch is similar to a standard wall switch that controls light fixtures. These switches are installed according to the voltage and amperage of the furnace circuit.

• Fused switch: It is a speciality switch consisting of a fuse and a toggle switch. Thus, you can disconnect the power by unscrewing the fuse or shutting off the switch. Many local codes and furnace manufacturers require fused switches. You can find these kinds of switches in some older furnaces, particularly old oil-burner models.

Some local codes might allow a “Lockable Breaker.” Unlike the traditional disconnect switches near the unit, it is often situated away from the system. However, the best HVAC repair near me doesn’t recommend this setup, given the lack of convenience and potential safety risk. But if your old furnace doesn’t have a disconnect switch near the furnace itself, make sure it has a lockable breaker instead.

A disconnect switch is an essential safety aspect of a furnace. If your furnace’s switch isn’t working or doesn’t have a switch at all, we can fix it. We are known for expert repair, installation, and furnace replacement in Pasadena and surrounding areas of Maryland.