Furnace problems can be a real headache, especially during cold winter months. However, many common issues can be fixed without calling a professional. Regular furnace maintenance and simple DIY repairs can save money and keep your home warm. We'll walk you through easy troubleshooting steps, from checking the thermostat to cleaning filters, to get your furnace back up and running.
Of course, some furnace repairs are best left to the experts, and we'll help you spot signs that it's time to call a professional. Safety always comes first when dealing with gas or oil furnaces. By following our guide, you'll be able to tackle minor issues and know when to get help.
Understanding Your Furnace System
Furnaces are complex heating systems with many vital parts. In this article, we'll explore the main types of furnaces and break down their key components to help you better understand how your home stays warm.
Types of Furnaces and How They Work
Gas furnaces use natural gas or propane to create heat. They ignite the fuel in a combustion chamber, warming the heat exchanger. A blower fan pushes air over the heat exchanger and through your home's ducts.
Electric furnaces work differently. They use electric heating elements, similar to a giant hair dryer. As air passes over these hot coils, it warms up before being distributed.
Heat pumps can both heat and cool homes. In winter, they extract heat from the outside air and move it indoors. This process reverses in summer for cooling.
Key Components and Their Functions
- The thermostat tells your furnace when to turn on and off based on your desired temperature.
- A pilot light or electronic ignition starts the heating process in gas furnaces.
- The flame sensor ensures gas only flows when there's a flame present.
- The heat exchanger is where the air gets warmed. It separates combustion gases from the air that enters your home.
- The blower fan moves air through the system and into your rooms. It's a crucial part of both heating and cooling systems.
- Circuit breakers protect your furnace from electrical overloads. They cut power if something goes wrong.
Regular Furnace Maintenance
Taking care of your furnace is key to keeping it running well. We'll cover the most essential maintenance tasks you can do at home and when to call in the pros.
Inspecting and Changing Filters
Dirty filters can make your furnace work harder than necessary, so we recommend checking it every month during the heating season. Hold it up to a light source; it's time for a new one if you can't see through it.
Most furnaces use disposable filters, which come in different sizes. To ensure the right fit, slide the old filter out and insert the new one, following the airflow arrows on the frame. Some also have washable filters. If you have one, vacuum it off and rinse it with water. Let it dry completely before putting it back.
Monitoring System Performance
Listen for odd noises when it turns on or off, and watch for short cycling, where the furnace turns on and off quickly. Check your thermostat settings. If rooms feel too hot or cold, your furnace might need attention. Also, look at your energy bills. A sudden jump could mean your furnace isn't running efficiently.
Ensure vents and registers aren't blocked by furniture or rugs, which helps air flow freely through your home. If you smell gas, leave your house immediately and call your gas company. Don't turn on lights or use your phone inside.
Professional Inspections and Tune-ups
We suggest having a professional check your furnace once a year. Fall is a good time before the heating season starts.
An HVAC technician will:
- Clean the burners and check the heat exchanger
- Test safety controls and the thermostat
- Lubricate moving parts
- Check electrical connections
- Inspect the flue system
Troubleshooting Common Furnace Issues
Furnaces can develop various problems that affect their performance and comfort in your home.
Dealing With a Furnace Not Producing Heat
When your furnace isn't producing heat, check the thermostat first, ensuring it's set to "heat" and higher than the room's current temperature. If the thermostat seems fine, inspect the air filter. A clogged filter can block airflow and cause the furnace to shut off. Replace dirty filters every 1-3 months.
Next, check the pilot light if you have an older furnace. If it's out, follow the manufacturer's instructions to relight it. For newer furnaces, look for error codes on the control board. Finally, check your circuit breaker, too. A tripped breaker can cut the furnace's power. If necessary, flip it back on.
Resolving Frequent Cycling and Inadequate Heat
Frequent cycling (turning on and off) often points to a clogged filter or improper airflow. Clean or replace the filter and ensure all vents are open and unblocked.
Check the location of your thermostat. If it's near a heat source or drafty area, it may misread the temperature and cause cycling. If your heat is inadequate, start by checking your ductwork for leaks. Then, seal any gaps you find with metal tape.
Ensure your furnace is the right size for your home. An undersized unit will struggle to heat correctly. Clean the blower assembly and check the fan belt, too. A dirty blower or loose belt can reduce airflow and heating efficiency.
Fixing Noisy and Blowing Cold Air Problems
Unusual noises often indicate loose or worn parts. Rattling suggests a loose Panel, while squealing indicates a worn belt. Grinding noises are serious and usually require a professional. Turn off the furnace and call a technician.
Check if the blower runs when the burners are off for a furnace blowing cold air. This could mean a faulty limit switch. Ensure the gas supply is on and the pilot light is lit. If these are fine, the issue might be with the ignition system or gas valve. Additionally, clean or replace a dirty flame sensor. If it can't detect a flame, this part shuts off the gas, leading to blowing cold air.
When to Seek Professional Furnace Repair Services
Some issues need expert help, and you should call a professional if you notice these signs:
- Strange noises from your furnace could mean serious problems. Banging, rattling, or screeching sounds aren't normal.
- A yellow or flickering burner flame is dangerous. It may indicate a gas leak or carbon monoxide problem. Leave your home immediately and get help.
- Sudden spikes in heating bills often indicate that your furnace isn't working correctly. A pro can find the cause and fix it.
- Your furnace keeps turning on and off.
- You can't get your thermostat to work correctly
- There's a strong gas smell near your furnace
- Your carbon monoxide alarm goes off
We always suggest getting help with gas or wiring, as messing with these without training is unsafe. Remember, trying to fix complex issues yourself can make things worse. It might even void your warranty. When in doubt, it's best to call a pro.
Get in touch to arrange a professional inspection of your furnace or heating system.
