CORRECTING COMMON FURNACE ISSUES
During the winter, your furnace is kicking on constantly to keep your family warm. Unfortunately, frequent HVAC system usage increases wear and tear and the potential for heating issues. Early identification and correction of these problems can help you preserve your family’s comfort when they need it most. Here are a few of the most common furnace issues and what you can do to pinpoint the problem.
SYSTEM SHUTDOWNS
Your HVAC system can shut off suddenly if it’s struggling with a mechanical fault, compromised thermostat or dirty filter. Short cycling occurs when your heating system turns off before warming your home completely. One of the most common issues behind this problem is a clogged air filter. Without enough air in the system, vital components and wiring will begin to overheat. Modern furnaces have safety features that turn off the system before anything can become damaged. Constant short cycling can harm the heat exchanger’s integrity as well as the furnace’s life span. Your filters need to be switched out every one to three months, depending on your household.
BAD PILOT LIGHT
The furnace’s pilot light is meant to ignite the system’s gas at the start of a heating cycle. Without proper maintenance and cleaning, this light will frequently go out or malfunction. There may be an issue with the flame sensor or gas supply line. If you can’t keep the pilot light going after relighting it, call us for professional furnace maintenance. Avoid attempting to clean or replace any of the gas-related parts in your furnace. These components are delicate and require professional handling to minimize damages and gas leaks.
LEAKING WATER
High-efficiency furnaces produce a moderate amount of water in the form of condensation. All of this moisture should be directed out of the system via the condensate line. Standing water or leaks around your furnace may mean there’s a clog in the line or an issue with the drain pan. If you’re not sure how to identify and clear your condensate line or don’t want to risk disturbing your system, schedule HVAC care with our expert team.
TEMPERATURE INCONSISTENCIES
Temperature inconsistencies or fluctuations often point to problems with the thermostat. Older devices can struggle to accurately read your home’s internal temperature. If your thermostat believes it’s already too warm, it won’t tell your furnace to kick on. Compare your indoor thermometer to your thermostat’s readings. If it’s more than a couple of degrees off, it may be time to replace your thermostat with an improved model. Other thermostat issues to watch out for include the inability to follow your setting preferences, a malfunctioning display and visible external damage.
CONTINUOUSLY RUNNING BLOWER
Your furnace’s blower is responsible for pushing the newly heated air through your ductwork and into your home. When your thermostat is set on AUTO, your blower will only turn on when your furnace is starting a heating cycle. If you turn your thermostat settings to ON, the blower will stay perpetually active. This constant blower usage can make your home feel colder and less comfortable. Another potential cause for this problem is a damaged limit switch, which may need to be replaced by a technician.
IRREGULAR FUNCTIONING NOISES
All furnaces make some rumbling or buzzing noises as they produce heat. It’s important to watch for new, odd sounds like grinding, rattling or screeching. A grinding noise may mean the blower motor’s bearings have become worn out. Rattling often points to loose bolts or panels. Screeching can indicate that a vital belt is frayed or damaged. All irregular noises should be professionally investigated as soon as possible. A strained furnace under too much stress is more likely to break down or need expensive repairs.
RELIABLE INDOOR COMFORT SOLUTIONS
Home Heating Service, Inc. is your best choice for dependable heating and cooling services in Colorado Springs, CO. We’re a Lennox Premier Dealer who’s been serving our community since 1988. Our BBB-accredited team is proud to have been recognized with an Angie’s List Super Service Award. You can trust us to offer exceptional products and free estimates that prioritize your household’s comfort. We’re ready to maintain and repair your furnace, gas fireplace and air conditioner. We can also provide insulation services, indoor air quality solutions and home energy audits. Schedule your next HVAC maintenance appointment with Home Heating Service, Inc. in Colorado Springs today.
