You all know how it feels to have your furnace up and running efficiently one day and then face problems the next. If your furnace starts giving you trouble, don’t immediately assume that you need to replace the entire unit.
Instead, check for these common issues. Better still, have an expert inspect the entire unit, including the ductwork. A simple furnace repair might be all you need to get it running efficiently.
Dirty or Clogged Filter
A dirty or clogged filter is one of the most common furnace issues. When the filter clogs with dirt, dust, and other debris, it restricts airflow causing the furnace to work harder to circulate warm air.
This issue not only causes your energy bills to increase but also shortens your furnace’s lifespan. It takes longer to heat your home, and the furnace will run more frequently, leading to parts wearing out prematurely. To avoid this, check and replace the filter when dirty.
The Pilot Light Is Out
If your furnace is gas-powered, it has a pilot light that ignites the burners. Without the pilot light, your furnace can’t heat your home. If the pilot light goes out, relighting it is usually a simple process.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for relighting the pilot light. If it doesn’t light, there may be a problem with the thermocouple, a safety device that tells the furnace when to turn on and off. Have the thermocouple replaced by professionals.
The Furnace Is Making Strange Noises
If your furnace makes strange noises, it could be due to various issues, such as loose screws or bolts, a broken belt, or debris in the blower wheel. These problems can cause severe damage if not addressed. Call a professional to inspect the unit and make the necessary repairs. Possible solutions are:
- Tightening any loose screws or bolts
- Replacing a broken belt
- Cleaning the blower wheel
The Furnace Doesn’t Produce Enough Heat
There are a few possible explanations if your furnace doesn’t blow out enough hot air. It could be the thermostat is set too low, the furnace filter is dirty, or there’s an issue with the blower motor. Another possibility is that your furnace is too small for the space it’s trying to heat. In this case, upgrade to a bigger furnace.
The Fan Running Constantly
The fan switch should only be turned to the “On” position when the furnace is heating your home. If you find the fan running constantly, it could indicate that the limit switch needs resetting. The limit switch is a safety device that turns off the furnace when the temperature gets too high.
You can reset the limit switch yourself, but it’s best to have a professional do it for you, ensuring it’s done correctly. When using a thermostat, set it to “Auto” rather than “On” so the fan only runs when the furnace is heating.
Heat Goes Out
When no heat comes out of the furnace, it could be that the heat exchanger is cracked. This is the metal coil located inside the unit. It’s what heats the air circulated through your home. A cracked heat exchanger can leak carbon monoxide which is a deadly gas. If you suspect it’s cracked, turn off the furnace and call a professional for replacement.
Manage Problems Quickly
Furnace issues can lead to considerable discomfort and expense if not addressed on time. Familiarizing yourself with some of the most common problems enables you to take steps to prevent or manage them quickly.
If you have any concerns, it’s always best to call a professional for an inspection. Also, follow the maintenance guidelines for your specific furnace model to keep it running efficiently and safely.
