The furnace is an important part of your home’s heating system. It not only provides warmth and comfort, but also helps prevent the spread of harmful germs and airborne toxins such as dust, pollen and mold spores.
While many problems with a furnace can be corrected by a homeowner, there are some issues that require the help of an experienced HVAC technician to diagnose and fix. Knowing when to schedule a furnace repair is essential to the operation and longevity of your system.
It is a good idea to have your furnace serviced and maintained by a professional on a regular basis, as this will help you to avoid costly repairs and reduce energy costs over time. It will also prevent your unit from becoming clogged and overuse.
A dirty burner is a common cause of furnace problems, especially during colder months when condensation and soot are more likely to build up on the burners. Cleaning the burners with a vacuum cleaner will help to remove any debris from the area.
Poor Airflow: If your heating system isn’t distributing heat throughout your home, it could be a sign of a problem in the ductwork or the air handling components. If this is the case, it is a good idea to have your ductwork cleaned before your next heating season.
High Utility Costs: As furnaces age, they become less efficient and use more energy. If you notice that your energy bills are rising, it is a sign that your furnace may need to be repaired.
Noisy Operation: Furnaces are built to make noise, but if it is grinding, whirring or clunking, this could indicate a broken component inside your furnace.
Ignitor Trouble: The ignitor is the spark that ignites the gas, and it can be the culprit for your furnace’s problem. The ignitor will glow orange after it receives the signal that it is ready to light, and it will click when it is finally lit.
If you are having a problem with your ignitor, you will need to call in an HVAC technician to assess the issue and replace it if necessary. You should also take note of other warning signs that may indicate that the ignitor isn’t functioning properly.
No Pilot Light: If the pilot light on your furnace isn’t working, this is an indication that you need to have it replaced or re-lit. There are a number of reasons why your pilot light might not be working; some of the most common problems include a faulty ignitor, a gas leak and a clogged pilot light valve.
Other issues that may be a sign that your furnace needs to be repaired include an inability to turn on or off the blower, a squealing fan, an uneven temperature reading and strange smells from your furnace.
Not Enough Gas: You can’t run your furnace without gas, so a leaking hose or pipe can be a serious safety hazard. If you have a leaking furnace, it is best to shut the unit off immediately and call in an emergency plumber to inspect the line and fix any leaks.