Did you know having a furnace in optimal conditions can save up to 10% on your yearly heating cost? The average lifespan of furnaces is between 15 to 25 years. But, they need regular maintenance for them to last that long.
Having routine checkups prevents most common furnace problems from happening or worsening. Yet, some furnace issues can still occur even if you take good care of the system.
The vital thing is to know the signs of a faulty furnace and when to call a professional who can help repair the home furnace.
Here are the 8 common furnace problems you may encounter.
1. The Furnace Not Producing Heat
The furnace’s only work is to distribute warm air throughout your home, especially when it’s cold outside. When the furnace is not producing heat, it’s a cause for alarm.
In most cases, it is usually not a big issue. If it is only blowing air but not warm air, you might have a setting on the thermostat preventing it from producing heat.
You have to check the thermostat to see if it is on or set to heat. Adjust the temperature level if it’s too low. If you worry about the furnace, the first thing to check should be the thermostat settings.
Dust and debris might also result in cold air from the furnace. You have to replace the air filters regularly.
Dust and debris build up and prevent warm airflow from the furnace. Most times replacing the filters is enough to fix the issue.
2. The Furnace Does Not Turn On Automatically
When the furnace is performing in the right condition, it turns on and produces heat after getting a signal from the thermostat. There is a problem if it gets chilly in the house and the furnace doesn’t turn on automatically.
As with other issues, it may be a quick fix or a major issue that needs urgent fixing from a professional who knows to handle furnace repairs. For example, if it does not turn on, the circuit breaker might be off. In such as case, look at the breaker box and flip the furnace switch.
Settings on the thermostat may also be an issue. When the temperature settings are too low on the thermostat, the furnace will not start until low heat registers. Adjust the thermostat and see whether the furnace will begin to work.
Other issues include no fuel, clogged air filters, and faulty ignition of the pilot light.
3. The Furnace Keeps Turning On and Off
The furnace cycles on and off to maintain the set temperature on the thermostat. Depending on the set temperature, it might cycle on and off a few times an hour.
Something is wrong when it begins short cycling or frequently turning on and off without even reaching the set temperature. It runs for only a few minutes for short cycles, and then it turns off. Lack of airflow in the home furnace is the cause of short cycles due to overheating.
Also, clogged furnace filters restrict airflow, making it overheat, and the safety switch goes off. Replacing the furnace filter should be the first thing you do when you notice this issue. If the problem is still there, you need to contact an expert to have a closer look.
4. Strange and Loud Noises
The weird and loud noises from the furnace are an indication that it has residue and soot buildup. Excessive dirt in the burners delays the combustion process causing the gas to go unburned. After that, the gas that ignites creates a booming sound.
When metal parts start to rub on each other, it produces a loud scraping sound. Like the blower wheel might be hitting against the blower case.
5. Blower Problems
Issues with the limit switch cause the blower to run continuously. You may also have a belt problem and not a blower problem. The belt needs lubrication, or in case it’s worn out, it will need replacing.
You need to check on the blower motor. It may be needing repairs or a replacement depending on its condition.
Regular inspections and maintenance are going to find blower issues. Hire a professional who knows what they are looking for and how to fix the issue. It’s important to follow a maintenance schedule to avoid future problems.
6. Cracked Heat Exchangers
Cracks on the heat exchanger affect the overall furnace performance. Carbon monoxide can also fill the entire house, which is very dangerous.
Other signs of a cracked heat exchanger are:
• Unpleasant smells
• Water pools on the floor near the furnace
• Soot on the inside of the furnace
Once you notice any of those signs, shut down the furnace and call an expert right away. They can fix the issue fast.
7. Rotten Egg Smells
Pipe defects or lack of regular maintenance might cause natural gas to leak in gas furnaces. The gas leak usually smells like sulfur or a rotten egg. The methanethiol added to the natural gas is the reason why it stinks.
When you smell sulfur in your house, immediately turn off your gas valve. Then, open all the windows and get out of the house. After that, you need to call the gas company and a furnace repair company to prevent serious explosions.
8. Worn Out Ball Bearings
The ball bearings aid the motor to work properly. Over time they wear out and need replacements. Please turn it off immediately once you start to hear scraping sounds. You should call an expert to handle the repair.
Look Out for the Above Furnace Problems
The better you take care of the home furnace, the fewer problems you will likely experience. Knowing the common furnace problems and ways to fix them will help to keep the system in good condition. Reach out to an expert to fix the issues in case they arise.
At Florida Heat & Air, we offer the best air conditioning, heating, and maintenance services in Florida. We service the Lee County area as well as Naples, Port Charlotte, and Punta Gorda. Our team of professionals understands how all HVAC systems operate.
If you’re having difficulties with your home furnace, get a free quote from us today, or schedule a time for furnace repairs.
