Though it’s past winter, it’s never too early to start preparing for the next cold season. HVAC systems can have issues at any time of the year, and furnace problems should not go ignored as they can lead to discomfort in your home or a serious safety hazard. You should familiarize yourself with some of the most common furnace problems and repairs so you can address these issues as soon as they appear.
Here are 10 common furnace problems and repairs you should be aware of:
1. Cleaning Dirty Ductwork:
Dirty ductwork can prevent your furnace from properly circulating warm air throughout the home. So if you notice that the air in your home isn’t getting warm, check the ducts for dust buildup. You can test this by placing your hand over or a sheet of paper over the vent register in your home. If the paper doesn’t move or you don’t feel the airflow on your arm, then you have dirty ductwork and should contact a professional to clean and repair it.
2. Changing Filters:
The filters in your furnace help to keep the air clean and should be changed regularly. If they become clogged or dirty, then it will cause the blower motor to work harder, leading to higher energy bills. It is recommended that you change the filter every 3 months or as needed for optimal performance. If you’re not getting as much heat as you think you should be, check your filter and replace it if necessary.
3. Fixing the Starting Components:
If your furnace won’t turn on or stay on, there could be an issue with its starting components. These include the thermostat, igniter, and limit switch. Each of these components can cause problems for the furnace if they become damaged or stop working properly. Starting mechanisms are different for each furnace, so consult the user manual or an HVAC specialist to troubleshoot any problems with your specific system.
4. Inspecting and Replacing Belts:
Belts are a key component of furnaces that allow the blower motor and other parts to communicate effectively. If your furnace suddenly stops blowing hot air or is making loud noises, it could be due to a worn-out belt. It’s important to inspect your furnace belts for wear and tear, and replace them when necessary. If you are unsure how to do this yourself, contact an experienced HVAC technician to help you out.
5. Checking the Heat Exchanger:
The heat exchanger is responsible for transferring heat from the furnace to the air passing through it. If the heat exchanger develops cracks, there can be severe repercussions, including the release of carbon monoxide into your home. Regular inspections of the heat exchanger are necessary and should always be done by a professional HVAC technician.
6. Cleaning the Flame Sensor:
The flame sensor is an essential component of the furnace and its job is to detect when the gas pilot light is lit. If it gets contaminated with dust or debris, it can cause problems with your furnace’s operation. To resolve this issue, you will need to clean the flame sensor regularly using a soft cloth or brush. The frequency of cleaning will depend on the specific furnace model you have.
7. Fixing the Limit Switch:
The limit switch is a safety feature that turns off the furnace when it reaches certain temperatures. If your furnace shuts off unexpectedly, it could be due to an issue with the limit switch. You will need to call in a professional HVAC technician who can inspect and replace any faulty switches.
8. Replacing Blower Parts:
The blower is responsible for the circulation of air within your home and is an essential part of the furnace system. If you find that your blower isn’t working properly, it could be due to worn-out fan belts or damaged fan blades. To resolve this issue, you will need to replace any faulty parts with new ones. It’s important to get a professional HVAC technician to complete this repair in order to ensure that it is done correctly.
9. Damaged Blower Capacitor:
The blower capacitor helps the motor on your furnace start and run efficiently. If the capacitor becomes damaged, then you may experience a decrease in airflow. To repair this issue, you will need to replace the broken capacitor with a new one that meets the correct specifications for your furnace. It’s important to call in an experienced HVAC technician to do this job as it requires precise knowledge of electrical systems.
10. Repairing Your Thermostat:
If your furnace isn’t responding to changes you make with your thermostat, then it may need to be repaired. An experienced technician will be able to diagnose and repair the problem. They might suggest replacing the thermostat if they believe that’s necessary or if the unit is outdated and needs an upgrade. In some cases, a simple troubleshooting procedure may do the trick. Regardless of the cause, it’s important to schedule an appointment and have the problem fixed as soon as possible in order to ensure your home remains comfortable and energy-efficient.
Work With Carney & Son 72 Degrees
It’s always best to call in a professional HVAC technician who has experience with furnace repairs so that it can be properly diagnosed and repaired. This is especially true when dealing with Carney & Son 72 Degrees, a reliable HVAC company in the area. Our technicians are highly trained and experienced in furnace repairs, so you can rest assured knowing your system will be fixed promptly and correctly. We also offer regular maintenance services to keep your furnace running properly and efficiently. With our help, you can avoid costly furnace repairs in the future by keeping your system in top condition. Contact Carney & Son 72 Degrees today for all your furnace repair needs.