Furnace Troubles: Top Problems Homeowners Face

You need a furnace to keep your house cozy and warm in winter. But like any appliance, it can experience issues from time to time. Whether your furnace isn’t heating properly or is making strange noises, furnace trouble can be frustrating. The good news is that most problems can be fixed with a bit of knowledge and the right help.

A Furnace That Won’t Turn On

One of the most frustrating issues homeowners encounter is a furnace that won’t turn on when the temperature drops. This is especially annoying when it happens unexpectedly and leaves your home feeling cold and uncomfortable. Before you panic, it’s worth checking for a few common issues. First, check that your thermostat is set to Heat and the temperature is high enough to trigger the furnace to kick on. Taking a minute to double-check can save you some hassle and get your furnace running again.

Another common issue could be a tripped circuit breaker. If the furnace’s power supply is interrupted, it won’t operate. Check your electrical panel to see if the breaker is in the off position. If so, flip it back on. If the furnace still doesn’t turn on, you may have a more serious issue, such as a malfunctioning ignition system or a clogged filter, which will need professional heating repair by a furnace expert.

Strange Noises

It’s normal for furnaces to make a little noise as they run, but if you start hearing loud or unfamiliar sounds, pay attention. Noises like rattling, banging, or squealing are usually signs that something isn’t right. For instance, a banging sound might suggest a delay in the ignition process, causing gas to build up before it finally ignites. This can be dangerous, so don’t ignore it. You should get your heater checked out if you hear any strange or loud noises. Squealing noises often come from the furnace’s blower motor. The motor’s bearings could be worn out or need lubrication.

Constant Cycling

If your furnace constantly cycles on and off, it’s not operating efficiently. A malfunctioning thermostat or clogged air filter is usually the cause. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, causing the furnace to overheat. If the thermostat is misreading the temperature, it may cause the furnace to turn off prematurely or run too long before cycling off again.

Another possible cause for this issue is an oversized furnace. If your furnace is too powerful, it could easily heat the area too quickly, resulting in a quick shutdown. This constant cycling will create wear and tear damage with your machine. If you notice this problem, consult a professional to determine whether your furnace is the right size for your home and if it needs any adjustments.

No Air Blowing

If your furnace is running but no air is coming out, the problem could be with the blower motor. Over time, the motor can become worn out or clogged with dirt and debris, preventing it from working correctly. Another possible issue could be a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse.

If your furnace isn’t blowing air, it might be due to a malfunctioning fan limit switch. This part plays an important role in controlling the blower’s operation by making sure it only runs when the furnace is generating heat. If the switch isn’t working correctly, the blower won’t start when it’s supposed to, leaving you without warm air. You’ll need to call an HVAC technician.

Neglected Maintenance

Going without maintenance is a major cause of furnace difficulties. Checking and cleaning your heater on a regular basis will keep it going well. During maintenance, a technician will look for possible problems, clean the system, and make any required changes to guarantee peak performance. Regular maintenance can extend the life of your furnace and help you avoid expensive problems.

Inconsistent Heating

When you notice that some rooms are warm while others are freezing, there’s a good chance that your furnace isn’t distributing heat evenly. This problem can occur for a few reasons. A common culprit is a clogged air filter. When the filter is dirty, it severely limits airflow, leading to uneven heating and poor air quality. Replacing the filter every few months is a simple way to boost the airflow.

Another potential issue could be with the ductwork. Over time, ducts can become leaky or disconnected, reducing the efficiency of heat distribution. If your ducts are damaged, heated air may be escaping before it can reach certain rooms. If this is the case, a professional must inspect and repair the ducts to restore even heating in your home.

Ignition Issues

If you have an older furnace with a pilot light, it might go out from time to time. This could be due to a faulty thermocouple or a draft that blows it out. If the pilot light keeps going out, it’s important to turn off the gas and call a technician to take a look.

If your furnace has an electronic ignition system, a malfunctioning ignitor can prevent it from firing up. Over time, these ignitors can wear out and need replacement. You’ll need professional help for this, too.

Yellow or Orange Pilot Light

If you have a gas furnace and notice that your pilot light is a yellow or orange color instead of blue, it could be a sign of incomplete combustion. A yellow or orange flame indicates that your furnace is burning gas inefficiently, which could lead to the production of harmful carbon monoxide. This is a serious safety concern that tells you it’s time to call a tech. They’ll check things out to see if there’s a blockage or something else causing the problem.

Cold Air Blowing Out

If your furnace is blowing cold air instead of warm air, it’s likely malfunctioning. The first thing to check is the thermostat, which should be set to Heat. If the thermostat is fine, the issue may be a malfunctioning ignition system or a dirty flame sensor. When the flame sensor is dirty, it can’t detect the flame and will shut off the gas supply, preventing the furnace from producing heat.

Reach Out Today for Furnace Help

Furnace problems can be stressful, but knowing what to look for can save you time and money. Regular maintenance and understanding the common issues that can arise are key to keeping your heating system in great shape. When something goes wrong, our team at Associated Heating & Air can help.

If your furnace starts acting up, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Catching issues early can save you a lot of trouble. Whether it’s a strange noise, uneven heating, or anything else that seems off, getting it checked out sooner rather than later can prevent a major breakdown. In addition to professional heating services we can also take care of all your AC, indoor air quality, air purifiers, humidifiers and dehumidifiers, UV lights, and smart thermostat needs.

If you need repairs or simply want some expert guidance, reach out to Associated Heating & Air today.