As anyone who has ever gone through a cold winter knows, a furnace is a crucial appliance. It not only keeps your home warm and comfortable, but it also helps to prevent pipes from freezing and provides essential ventilation. However, furnaces can sometimes have problems that can be frustrating and expensive to fix. Here are some of the most common furnace issues and how to avoid them.
1. Dirty Air Filters
Not only do dirty air filters reduce the efficiency of the furnace, but they can also cause a number of other problems. For example, dirty filters can lead to poor indoor air quality, increased dust and allergens in the home, and even premature furnace failure. In addition, dirty filters put additional strain on the furnace, leading to higher energy bills.
2. Pilot Light Issues
A pilot light is a small flame that is kept lit inside the combustion chamber of a furnace. This flame is used to ignite the gas when the furnace is turned on. If the pilot light goes out, the furnace will not be able to turn on. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including a dirty burner, a clogged fuel line, or a faulty igniter. You should have your pilot light checked by a professional on a regular basis to ensure that it is operating properly. Otherwise, you may find yourself without heat during the winter months.
3. Malfunctioning Thermostat
A thermostat controls the temperature in your home by turning the furnace on and off as needed. If the thermostat is not working properly, your furnace may constantly run, resulting in higher energy bills.
In addition, a malfunctioning thermostat can cause your home to become too hot or too cold, making it uncomfortable for you and your family. With proper care and maintenance, a furnace can last for many years, but if a problem like a malfunctioning thermostat is left unchecked, it can lead to much bigger problems down the road.
4. Electric Ignition Problems
Electric ignition problems occur when there is a break in the electrical current that ignites the gas in the furnace. This can cause the furnace to shut down abruptly or not ignite at all. In some cases, it can also cause a fire. A professional can fix the problem by replacing the igniter or repairing the electrical circuit.
5. The Blower Running Nonstop
This problem can be caused by a variety of issues, including a problem with the limit switch or a dirty air filter. In some cases, the blower may also be set to run continuously in order to circulate air more effectively. Regardless of the cause, a constantly running blower can result in a number of problems, including increased energy costs and excessive wear and tear on the furnace.
Fortunately, a professional heating technician will be able to quickly diagnose the problem and repair the blower if necessary. In most cases, simply replacing the limit switch or cleaning the air filter will solve the problem. However, more serious issues, such as a damaged motor, may require more extensive repairs. Either way, it’s important to have the problem fixed as soon as possible to prevent extensive damage to your furnace.
6. Leaky Ductwork
A leaky ductwork problem occurs when the ducts that carry hot air to the rooms in your home are not sealed properly. As a result, heated air can escape through the gaps and cracks, making your furnace work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature. In addition, leaky ductwork can also lead to higher energy bills and reduced indoor air quality.
By sealing the gaps and cracks in your ductwork, a professional can help to improve the efficiency of your furnace, reduce your energy bills, and help improve your indoor air quality.
7. Too Much Noise Coming From Your Furnace
Squealing, banging, or rattling noises can all indicate something is wrong with your furnace. And while some sounds may be harmless, others could be signs of a serious issue.
If your furnace is squealing, it could be a sign that your blower belt is loose or damaged. A loose blower belt will cause the blower to slip, which will make a squealing noise. Alternatively, a damaged blower belt will also make a squealing noise and can cause your blower to overheat.
A banging noise from your furnace is usually caused by delayed ignition, which occurs when the furnace’s igniter doesn’t create a spark fast enough to ignite the gas. This can be caused by a build-up of dirt or other debris on the igniter. Another possible cause of bagging sound is clogged air filters. If the filters are too full of dirt and dust, they can restrict air flow, causing the furnace to work harder and make more noise.
Finally, if your furnace is making a rattling noise, it’s likely due to loose parts inside the unit. Over time, screws, nuts, and bolts can work themselves loose. This can cause all kinds of problems, including decreased efficiency and shortened lifespan for your furnace.
If your furnace is making any kind of strange noise, don’t ignore it! Furnace problems always start small but can quickly turn into big and expensive repairs down the line. Contact a qualified HVAC technician to come take a look at your unit and get it running quietly again.
8. The Furnace Not Heating Enough
There are a few possible reasons for this issue. One possibility is that the furnace isn’t getting enough power. This could be due to a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse. Another possibility is that the pilot light is out. If this is the case, relighting the pilot light should solve the problem.
If neither of these things fix the issue, it may be necessary to call a professional for help. By troubleshooting these common issues, a professional should be able to get your furnace up and running again in no time.
9. Cracked Heat Exchanger
A heat exchanger is responsible for transferring heat from the combustion chamber to the air that is circulated through the home. A cracked heat exchanger can be a serious problem, as it can allow carbon monoxide to escape into the home. This can be dangerous to both people and pets, and it is important to have a professional inspect and repair any cracks as soon as possible.
In addition to posing a health hazard, cracked heat exchangers can also lead to decreased efficiency and higher energy bills. Fortunately, most furnace companies offer warranty coverage for cracked heat exchangers, so it is essential to check your warranty before scheduling a repair.
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Looking for quality heating, cooling, and plumbing services in Denver, CO? Look no further than Summit Heating & A/C. We’re a locally owned and operated business with over 80 years of experience serving Denver and the surrounding areas. We’re committed to providing our customers with the highest quality service possible, and we offer a 100% guarantee. So, if you’re not satisfied with our work, we’ll make it right – at no cost to you. Call us today to schedule a consultation.
