Having a functional furnace is vital to keep your home warm and cozy during the winter. Unfortunately, like any other appliance, furnaces are prone to problems and breakdowns. As a homeowner, it’s essential to be aware of the most common furnace problems so that you can take preventative measures and avoid costly repairs.
At Santa Cruz Heating & Cooling, we have been providing furnace service in Olney, MD, and heating repair in Nogales, AZ, for many years. Through our experience, we have identified the top 10 furnace problems that homeowners face. In this blog post, we will discuss these problems and provide you with tips on how to prevent them.
Dirty or Clogged Air Filters
Air filters play a crucial role in keeping your furnace functioning properly. They help to trap dust, dirt, and other debris from entering the furnace. However, if not cleaned or replaced regularly, they can become clogged and restrict airflow, causing your furnace to work harder than it should. This can lead to overheating and potential breakdowns.
To avoid this problem, make sure to clean or replace your air filters every 1-2 months. This will not only prevent furnace problems but also improve indoor air quality.
Ignition Problems
If your furnace is not turning on, it could be due to an ignition problem. There are two main types of ignitions: hot surface and intermittent pilot. Hot surface ignitions use a heating element to ignite the gas, while intermittent pilot systems use a spark to ignite the gas. If either of these components is faulty, your furnace won’t turn on.
To prevent ignition problems, make sure to schedule regular maintenance for your furnace. Our team at Santa Cruz Heating & Cooling offers comprehensive furnace maintenance services to keep your system in top condition.
Thermostat Malfunction
Your thermostat acts as the brain of your furnace, controlling when it turns on and off. If your thermostat is not working correctly, it can cause your furnace to cycle too frequently or not enough, leading to inconsistent temperatures and higher energy bills.
To avoid this issue, make sure to check your thermostat regularly for any signs of malfunction. Swap out batteries as necessary and consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat for enhanced precision in temperature control.
Pilot Light Problems
If you have a gas furnace, the pilot light is essential for igniting the gas and starting the heating process. If the pilot light keeps going out, it could be due to a faulty thermocouple or a draft in your home. These issues need to be addressed promptly to avoid further problems with your furnace.
To prevent pilot light problems, make sure to schedule regular maintenance for your furnace and address any drafts or air leaks in your home.
Blower Motor Issues
The blower motor is responsible for distributing the warm air throughout the indoor space. If it stops working, you will feel little to no warm air coming from your vents. This could be due to a faulty motor itself or an issue with the motor’s belt.
To prevent blower motor issues, make sure to schedule regular maintenance for your furnace and address any unusual noises coming from your system. Additionally, keep the area around your furnace clean and free of debris.
Lack of Maintenance
Regular maintenance is vital to keep your furnace functioning properly. Skipping yearly tune-ups can lead to various problems, including dirty filters, clogged burners, and inefficient performance. It can also shorten the lifespan of your furnace, leading to costly repairs or replacement.
To avoid this problem, make sure to schedule annual maintenance for your furnace with our technical team at Santa Cruz Heating & Cooling. Our experts will thoroughly inspect your system and address any potential issues before they escalate.
Wear and Tear
Over time, your furnace will experience wear and tear due to regular use. This can lead to various problems, including cracked heat exchangers, faulty electrical connections, and worn-out components.
To prevent wear and tear from causing significant issues with your furnace, make sure to schedule regular maintenance and address any minor issues promptly before they become more significant problems.
Dirty Burners
Dirt, dust, and debris can build up on your furnace’s burners over time, reducing their efficiency and potentially causing them to malfunction. This may result in inconsistent heating and increased energy expenses.
To prevent this problem, make sure to schedule periodic furnace maintenance and clean the burners as needed.
Noisy Furnace
Unusual noises coming from your furnace, such as banging, squeaking, or rattling, can be a sign of various problems. These include loose or damaged components, clogged burners, and airflow issues.
To avoid noisy furnaces, make sure to schedule regular upkeep and address any unusual sounds promptly.
Age of the Furnace
Just like with any other mechanical device, furnaces have a lifespan. If your furnace is nearing its 15-20 year mark, it’s more prone to problems and breakdowns.
To prevent unexpected furnace problems due to age, consider upgrading to a new, more energy-efficient model before your old one completely fails.
Ensuring your furnace is functioning correctly is essential for maintaining a comfortable and cozy home. By familiarizing yourself with the most common furnace problems and taking preventative measures, you can save on costly repairs and keep your system running smoothly.
Since 2006, Santa Cruz Heating & Cooling has been offering comprehensive furnace repair in Olney, MD, and heating repair in Nogales, AZ, to keep your furnace in top condition. Contact us to schedule a maintenance visit now or address any furnace problems you may be experiencing.
