Most Common Furnace Repair Problems
Potential furnace problems are likely the furthest thing from homeowners' minds during the peak of the summer.
Potential furnace problems are likely the furthest thing from homeowners' minds during the peak of the summer. Come fall, however, and the attempt to turn on what was believed to be a fully operational furnace might reveal a serious need for furnace repair. Avoid the emergency call by giving the furnace a once-over before it grinds to a sudden halt in the middle of the coldest night of the year. As citizens of the northern latitudes well know, no number of blankets, wool socks, or snuggies can compensate for the toasty feeling of a working furnace. Do not give up on the furnace altogether; there might be hope yet beyond the new furnace installation. Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms that could indicate the need for immediate furnace repair.
When dealing with furnaces that are fueled by highly flammable substances such as natural gas and propane, it's best to leave most fixes to the professionals, as property or personal damage could result from attempting a DIY solution.
Furnace Is Not Providing Heat
Probably the most obvious sign that a furnace needs attention is if it fails to perform the one job it is there to do: provide heat. If it is not heating the home adequately or is only blowing cold air, there could be a number of possible causes. The air filter could be too dirty to allow proper airflow, the ducts could have leaks or inadequate insulation, the furnace might be the incorrect size, or the duct system might not have been installed correctly.
Furnace Won't Turn On
Like all appliances, furnaces eventually wear out. If the furnace has been in use for about fifteen years, it is probably time to look into a more modern and energy-efficient furnace installation. A failure to operate could indicate that the old furnace's time has passed. The most common causes of this problem are a malfunctioning thermostat, a problem with the electrical circuit, and a broken pilot light. Tinkering with the thermostat to ensure that it is set to heat and has the correct temperature and fan settings is a good start. Check the circuit breaker to ensure it isn't tripped or blown.
Decreased Efficiency
If it's noticed that the furnace is cycling quickly or it turns on frequently for only short periods of time, it may be overdue for furnace repair. Heaters are most efficient when they heat the home to a few degrees above the desired setting every so often. If the furnace seems to be working overtime with lackluster results, the thermostat might not be recording the surrounding air's temperature accurately. Check to see whether it is located near any heat sources, such as a vent or light, or if its batteries need replacing. Sometimes, a lack of ventilation from dirty or old air filters or ducts might cause the furnace to overheat. However, the furnace is not always the culprit for inefficient heating. A contractor should take a look at the home's insulation and sealing. Under-insulated windows or rooms might be leaking warmed air outside, causing the furnace to frequently go into overdrive to compensate.
Strange Sounds or Smells
No heating system is silent, which is why furnaces tend not to be placed near bedrooms in the best of home layouts. However, when the furnace is banging, groaning, or making other unnatural noises, it definitely needs furnace repair. One of its parts or processes, be it the belt, ignition, or other component, is most likely taking its last shaky breaths before failing permanently. A fossil fuel-powered furnace is sure to give off whiffs of a noxious gasoline smell occasionally, but if that smell starts invading the rest of the home or becomes unbearable, a leak could be present.
Multiple Repairs
The average furnace lasts approximately ten to twenty years. They are a long-term investment in comfort and health. Even newer systems have occasional issues, but if the furnace has been repaired multiple times in the past two years, it is probably time to consider investing in a new furnace. Furnace repairs are costly, and replacing old parts that are no longer in production is even more expensive. Newer, more energy-efficient models may cost a significant amount initially but will quickly earn back the investment and then some in utility costs.
When it is suspected that the furnace is in need of repair, it's vital to call upon a reliable and skilled heating contractor who will provide the right fix the first time, helping the furnace to last for years to come.
Forecast Heating, Cooling, and Refrigeration serves residential and commercial customers in Summerlin, Anthem, North Las Vegas, Boulder City and Las Vegas. Call us at 702-919-4546.
