Why Is the Heater’s Red Light On?

Many heaters have an LED light that acts as the voice of your furnace. This light can alert you to heater issues before you incur costly repairs. Normally, the light will stay on at all times. If it’s flashing, this means the furnace needs your attention. Keep reading to learn why the heater in your Indio, California, home has a red light and what to do if you notice it flashing.

What Is the Red Light On the Furnace?

You’ve probably heard of Morse code. The red light on your heater uses the same concept to communicate with you. The number of times that it flashes correlates with a certain code that indicates a certain problem. For example, let’s say it flashes three times and then pauses. Then it flashes three times again and pauses. This would indicate code 3. You’d look at the owner’s manual to find out what HVAC issue is associated with code 3. Inside the owner’s manual, there should be a code chart. 

Heaters can have several dozen codes programmed into them, easily enabling them to communicate a variety of problems. Much of the time, a code is simply communicating that basic HVAC maintenance is needed. Once you have identified the problem, you can move onto the appropriate solution. If it’s something as simple as the filter needs to be replaced, you can probably perform a quick DIY filter change to remedy the problem. Leave anything other than a basic filter change in the hands of a professional.

What Does it Mean if the Red Light Is Off?

The heater’s red light being on is a good thing. If it’s completely off, the heater has lost power. If you notice the red light isn’t on or it’s flashing, contact a professional HVAC specialist to pinpoint the reason and make the necessary repair. Knight Heating & Air Conditioning technicians specialize in a variety of heater installation, repair, and maintenance services. Contact us at (760) 772-4947 to learn more about the red light on your furnace.