When it is cold outside, you want to make sure that your furnace is in working order. However, furnace malfunctions are a common issue for many homeowners. This can leave you in the cold during those bone-chilling days in Oklahoma City. Here is a look at some of the most common problems that can occur with a furnace.
Not Producing Heat
The top problem with furnaces occurs when they do not produce warm air. A variety of factors can cause this issue. If your furnace is not receiving power, it will not be able to produce heat. Sometimes, this problem can be due to a tripped circuit breaker or a blown fuse. You should check your home’s electrical panel to make sure that the furnace’s circuit breaker is in the “on” position.
A thermostat controls the operation of your furnace. It may prevent your unit from producing heat when it is not set at the right temperature. You can check the device and make sure that it is in the “heat” position.
For gas furnaces, the pilot light or ignition system is responsible for igniting the gas that heats your home. If the pilot light is out or the ignition system malfunctions, your furnace will not produce heat. The pilot light can be lit, but if there is an issue with the ignition system, call a professional. Dealing with gas appliances can be dangerous.
Other Common Issues
With furnaces, there are other issues that you can face. Some of them include:
Blowing Cold Air
Another common issue homeowners face with their furnace is cold air coming out of the return vents. Clogged air filters can restrict airflow and cause your furnace to distribute cold air. Also, if the ducts in your home are blocked or have leaks, it can result in cold air being blown out of your vents.
Another potential cause is a malfunctioning blower motor. The blower motor is responsible for pushing heated air through the ducts in your home. When it malfunctions, it may not be able to distribute warm air. The symptoms of this problem include an unusually low indoor temperature and weak or cold airflow from your vents.
There are several potential solutions to this problem. Replacing or cleaning your air filters can ensure proper airflow. If you suspect that the issue lies with your ducts, have a professional inspect them for any blockages or leaks and make the necessary repairs. For potential blower motor issues, a professional can check the interior components of your system.
Strange Sounds
You should never hear any weird or unusual noises coming from your furnace. Rattling, squealing, or banging sounds are not normal. Unusual vibrations could indicate a potential issue within the furnace system.
Loose or damaged components within the furnace can cause rattling or banging sounds. Dirty burners can also lead to unusual noises as the furnace struggles to function. Additionally, a worn-out blower motor can create a high-pitched squealing sound.
A professional can tighten or replace loose parts to eliminate rattling sounds. Cleaning the burners can help the furnace operate more efficiently and reduce noise. If the blower motor is worn out, repairing or replacing it can eliminate any high-pitched squealing sounds.
Cycling On and Off
This problem is called short cycling. During the heating cycles, the furnace turns on and off more frequently than usual. You can be left with uneven heating in your home, with some rooms warmer than others.
Clogged air filters can restrict airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and shut off prematurely. Issues with the thermostat, such as incorrect settings or malfunctions, can also lead to short cycling. Dirty and malfunctioning flame sensors can cause the furnace to shut off as a safety precaution.
Higher Than Normal Energy Costs
Your furnace may be to blame if you have consistently high heating costs that don’t align with your typical energy usage. Poor insulation in your home can lead to heat loss, causing your furnace to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Leaky ducts can also contribute to high energy bills. They can allow heated air to escape. Also, an older furnace can consume more energy than necessary due to the decreased efficiency of aging parts.
A professional can help address these problems. They can help you improve the insulation in your home to prevent heat loss and reduce the amount of energy required to heat your home. These professionals will also seal duct leaks and ensure that heated air is efficiently distributed throughout your home. If it is time to upgrade to a new furnace, consider a more energy-efficient unit to reduce your heating costs.
Ignition Issues
A faulty pilot light, ignition control problems, or issues with the gas supply can cause the furnace to malfunction. This pilot light may not stay lit, preventing the furnace from igniting. Ignition control problems can also prevent the furnace from starting, while issues with the gas supply can affect the furnace’s ability to ignite and produce heat.
A faulty pilot light will require repairs or replacement. Ensuring a proper gas supply is also important for the furnace to ignite and operate correctly.
Producing Poor Air Quality
Poor indoor air quality in your home can result from several factors related to your furnace. Dirty or clogged air filters, duct contamination, and inadequate ventilation are some reasons for this problem.
These issues can cause allergies or respiratory problems for the people living in your household. If you want to improve the air quality, consider replacing or cleaning your air filters more frequently. You might even want to consider scheduling a routine duct cleaning. Maintaining good indoor air quality is not just essential for the operation of your furnace but also for your health and comfort.
A Professional Can Assist
It is always ideal to leave furnace service to the professionals. Experienced technicians have the training and skills needed to diagnose and fix furnace issues. They understand the nuances of different furnace models and can identify problems that may not be apparent to the untrained eye.
These professionals have access to the right tools and equipment for the job. Some furnace repairs or installations require tools that may not be readily available to homeowners. By hiring a professional, you can be confident they have all the equipment to complete the job efficiently and safely.
Safety is a major concern when dealing with furnaces. Furnaces involve components like gas lines and electrical connections that can be dangerous if mishandled. Professionals are trained to work with these components safely, reducing the risk of accidents.
Additionally, many furnace manufacturers require regular professional servicing to maintain warranty coverage. By hiring a professional, you’re ensuring the safe operation of your furnace and protecting your investment.
All Tech Heat & Air is a dependable HVAC service provider offering reliable services in Oklahoma City, OK, for over 20 years. We have a team of professionals who can get to the heart of the problem and can complete any job with precision. Whether you need maintenance, repair, or installation services, All Tech Heat & Air is committed to providing high-quality HVAC solutions to meet your needs. We also offer indoor air quality assessments, insulation services, and duct cleanings. Schedule an appointment with one of our technicians today.
