As winter approaches, your furnace becomes an extremely important part of your home. However, like any other mechanical system, furnaces can have problems with wear and tear as they age. Knowing the common furnace issues will help you in understanding how to find and quickly resolve them to keep your home comfy and warm.
Understanding Common Furnace Issues
Every homeowner should know about common furnace issues. It will not only help you to identify the problem at an early stage but it may also save you from expensive repairs or replacement after some time. Moreover, you can take good care of your furnace by knowing the problems, which will increase its life and keep it running efficiently.
1. Thermostat Problems
Of course, the most common furnace issues are related to a problem with the thermostat. If your furnace isn’t heating or continuously cycling on and off, the problem may lie in a bad thermostat.
2. Improper Settings
Often, this is due simply to a problem with settings: sometimes people overlook the simple stuff-check that the thermostat is indeed on “heat” and the desired temperature exceeds the current one inside the room.
3. Problems with the Batteries
If your thermostat is a battery-powered device, then dead batteries can also be an issue. Replace the batteries if your thermostat isn’t responding or displaying information correctly.
4. Dirty or Clogged Air Filters
The dirty air filters are another most common furnace problem that should be known to homeowners. The clogged filter restricts the flow of air which forces your furnace to work more and less efficiently.
Effects of Dirty Filters
When your filters are dirty, your furnace has to work harder to push air through. This can lead to:
- Decreased heating efficiency
- Increased energy bills
- Potential damage to your furnace parts
How to Fix This
This common furnace issue is pretty easy to prevent. Just regularly change or clean your air filters. Check them monthly during heating season and replace or clean as needed.
5. Pilot Light Problems
Common to gas furnaces are problems associated with the pilot light and can prevent your furnace from heating.
How to Identify Issues with Your Pilot Light
A pilot light should be blue in color. If your pilot light flickers, is weak, or an abnormal color for example yellow, this can indicate a problem.
Pilot Light Issues
If your pilot light goes out, you may be able to relight it by following the directions in your furnace’s manual. But if you are not sure or if the problem persists, it is better to call a professional.
6. Strange Noises
Unusual noises from your furnace are most often indicative of common furnace problems that require attention.
Types of Noises and What They Mean
- Popping or pinging: This may be the result of expanding and contracting ductwork.
- Squealing: A loud, high pitched squeal may mean that the blower belt is the problem.
- Rumbling: This may indicate a severe problem with the burner.
What to Do About Furnace Noises
Though some noises are normal, those that are persistent or loud should be checked by a professional. Don’t ignore these noises, as they could indicate a serious problem.
7. Frequent Cycling
If your furnace is turning on and off more frequently than usual, this is a common furnace issue that needs attention.
Causes of Frequent Cycling
Several factors can cause your furnace to cycle too frequently:
- Dirty air filters
- Improper airflow
- Thermostat issues
Addressing Frequent Cycling
Start by checking and replacing your air filter if necessary. If the problem persists, it may be time to call in a professional to check your furnace’s airflow and thermostat settings.
8. Blower Problems
The blower’s job is to circulate your heated air throughout your home. Issues with the blower can significantly reduce performance of your furnace.
Signs of Blower Issues
- Furnace operates and doesn’t appear to push air
- Noises unusual occur in operation of the blower
Fixing Blower Issues
Blower problems can be complicated and mostly require professional attention; however, you might want to see whether the blower access panel is shut, as many furnaces will not operate if this panel is open.
9. Dirty or Malfunctioning Burners
Dirty or malfunctioning burners are another common furnace problem that might disturb your heating system.
Effects of Dirty Burners
The consequences of having dirty burners are:
- Inefficient heating
- Higher utility bills
- Possible safety hazards
How to Fix Problems in Burners
While cleaning of burners is better left for professionals, you can have a look at them visually. If the flames are uneven or yellow instead of steady blue, then it’s time to call for service.
10. Lack of Maintenance
A lot of the common furnace problems result from a lack of maintenance. Neglecting your furnace will result in reduction of efficiency, high bills, and a short span of your heating system.
Importance of Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance can:
- Avert many common furnace problems
- Improve the energy efficiency
- Prolong the life of your furnace
Do-It-Yourself Maintenance Tips
While some maintenance tasks must be conducted by a professional, it is still possible to take the following steps:
- Regular replacement or cleaning of air filters
- Keeping the area around your furnace clean and clutter-free
- Ensuring that all vents and registers in your home are unobstructed
When to Call a Professional
While homeowners can resolve certain common issues related to furnaces, others require professional assistance. If you are not comfortable confronting the issue or if you’ve tried some basic troubleshooting and didn’t get it, then it’s time to call a professional.
Signs You Need Professional Help
- Prolonged strange noises
- No heat coming out from your furnace
- Frequent cycling
- Yellow pilot light
- Any signs of gas leaks
These common furnace issues should not find you by surprise, and with that, one can easily have a very comfortable home during winter. With such conditions, it’s easy to operate a furnace with less efficiency, just by regular maintenance, prompt attention when problems arise, and knowing when it is time to call a professional. Truly, a well-maintained furnace keeps your home warm and may also help you save on energy bills and avoid costly repairs later on.
At Berks Energy Heating and Air Conditioning, we are here to help with all your furnace needs. Whether you are experiencing one of these common furnace issues or just need routine maintenance, our team of experts is ready to ensure your home stays warm and comfortable all winter long.
Call us to learn more about the services offered at Berks Energy Heating & Air Conditioning and schedule yours today!
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