Can I remove switch that controls my furnace?
#1
03-16-15, 10:17 AM
Can I remove switch that controls my furnace?
Hello guys, hopefully some of you will be able to give this young chap a history lesson here.
In my (older) house, there is a switch on the wall at the bottom of my stairs that turns power to my furnace on and off. I think I remember someone telling me that this was something needed for older furnaces (for one reason or another)... can someone please enlighten me on this?
Also, is it necessary to keep that switch? I am in the process of renovating my basement and if it is no longer needed, I could remove it while I am in there.
Thanks!
Nic
In my (older) house, there is a switch on the wall at the bottom of my stairs that turns power to my furnace on and off. I think I remember someone telling me that this was something needed for older furnaces (for one reason or another)... can someone please enlighten me on this?
Also, is it necessary to keep that switch? I am in the process of renovating my basement and if it is no longer needed, I could remove it while I am in there.
Thanks!
Nic
#2
03-16-15, 10:27 AM
Group Moderator
That is either a service switch or an emergency shut off switch based on where it's located in relation to the furnace.
Usually the switch is installed right outside the furnace room. If the furnace is not in its own room then a switch should be near the entrance to that room.
That switch is customarily installed in most homes for a fossil fuel burning furnace. I'm not sure if it's a code issue for you in Canada.
Usually the switch is installed right outside the furnace room. If the furnace is not in its own room then a switch should be near the entrance to that room.
That switch is customarily installed in most homes for a fossil fuel burning furnace. I'm not sure if it's a code issue for you in Canada.
#3
03-16-15, 04:28 PM
Member
Its an emergency switch and as far as I know code requires there to be one outside of the furnace room. Probably to keep you away from harm should your furnace go on the fritz.
You could move it, but don't delete it.
You could move it, but don't delete it.
#5
03-17-15, 09:12 AM
and replace it with a nicer switch
#6
03-17-15, 10:26 AM
Member
To expand on ray's suggestion...
This is usually what you would see for your furnace switch.
https://hdsupplysolutions.com/wcssto...328895_K_L.jpg
The nice thing about the emergency plate is it stands out so you're more likely to pay attention to it in case you accidentally bump it and shut it off. An after hours call because your "furnace isnt working" one winter is still going to cost you $150 - $200 just to flip a switch back on.
Depot may sell them, but likely you will need to go to an electrical wholesaler. I'm not sure which province you are from but try Eecol, Graybar, Choice, Wesco.
This is usually what you would see for your furnace switch.
https://hdsupplysolutions.com/wcssto...328895_K_L.jpg
The nice thing about the emergency plate is it stands out so you're more likely to pay attention to it in case you accidentally bump it and shut it off. An after hours call because your "furnace isnt working" one winter is still going to cost you $150 - $200 just to flip a switch back on.
Depot may sell them, but likely you will need to go to an electrical wholesaler. I'm not sure which province you are from but try Eecol, Graybar, Choice, Wesco.
