As the cold season sets in, every home should have a furnace that can keep a family warm and comfortable. However, even a new furnace can develop mechanical problems or break down unexpectedly. This could leave a home and its occupants vulnerable during the chilly weather.
However, property owners who understand the common furnace problems and how to troubleshoot them can restore full functions as soon as possible. This article highlights quick solutions to furnace problems.
Ensure the Furnace Is Switched on
The first step to repairing a broken furnace during an emergency is checking if the system has connection or ignition issues. The starting mechanism initiates the heating cycle, enabling the heater to produce and distribute warm air in the house. Therefore, homeowners should ensure the furnace receives power by turning the switch on or resetting a tripped circuit breaker.
A faulty or malfunctioning ignition system might prevent the furnace from producing adequate heat for a home. The ignition button is the first thing technicians check when repairing a broken furnace. A reliable technician can repair or replace the switch or ignition to ensure the system is consistent and reliable.
Check the Air Filters
Dirty and clogged air filters are common issues that make a furnace malfunction by allowing dust and debris to enter the ductwork. In some cases, the system might shut down unexpectedly.
The best way to resolve this problem is to hire an expert to clean or replace the air filters. Technicians understand the right time and frequency to replace filters.
Check the Thermostat
The thermostat is a key component that regulates the functioning of the heater. Therefore, the heater might not function as expected if the thermostat is not set right. However, setting the thermostat to heating mode and the desired temperature could resolve the problem.
Note that this setting should be higher than the room temperature since the appliance cannot start if the temperature set is below the present room temperature. The thermostat commands the system to provide adequate heat to the room, and the heater will start running. It is also important to change the thermostat's batteries if they are dead.
Cleaning the Ductwork
Dust and debris may enter the furnace’s ducts and restrict air flow, causing the system to overheat and malfunction. Consequently, some rooms fail to receive adequate warm air.
However, HVAC technicians can resolve this issue by cleaning the ductwork. They can also identify and repair any damages. It is important to schedule regular maintenance with professional technicians to ensure the furnace functions efficiently.
Strange Noises
Furnaces make different noises to signify various mechanical issues. For instance, banging might indicate delayed ignition, while high-pitched squealing indicates a malfunctioning motor or blower belt.
The best way to address these issues is to clean the burners and lubricate the motor. Repairing a broken furnace also requires a technician to tighten the screws connecting different components.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
The key to preventing a furnace from breaking down is scheduling regular maintenance. Competent technicians inspect and repair or replace the system components to ensure they function as usual. They also offer maintenance tips on how to maintain the heating system and notice warning signs. Routine inspection is the most effective way to prevent stressful emergency repair situations.
These are the common furnace issues and how homeowners can fix them. Understanding potential furnace issues and learning quick troubleshooting techniques is an effective way to make a home more comfortable during winter. Homeowners should engage heating repair technicians for efficient and timely intervention if these troubleshooting techniques don't work.
