Thursday, January 17, 2019

Top Furnace Troubleshooting Tips

Regardless of its age or type, if your furnace does not get maintenance checks and tune-ups on a regular basis, it will break down eventually.  Some common signs of furnace issues you should look for are:
  • Tripped carbon monoxide detector
  • Persistent noises
  • Poor air quality
  • Discolored pilot light
  • Inadequate heat
It should be noted that a faulty furnace could be a significant hazard to your health and safety. Using a malfunctioning furnace could result in carbon monoxide poisoning or cause a fire.

Learn More About Our Heating Services: (631) 667-3200

Common Furnace Issues You Could Experience


This article will explore some of the common issues that result in a furnace malfunctioning.  These include:

Dirty and Blocked Air Filters Result in Furnace Problems


A dirty, blocked air filter will decrease airflow into the furnace and escalate the wear and tear on the heater; this will cause it to work harder and longer to heat the home.  Basically, the heating system will end up becoming less efficient.  To prevent this, a qualified HVAC contractor should be hired to regularly clean the furnace and change the air filter.

Thermostat-Related Problems with the Heating System

The thermostat could malfunction because of thermostat-related problems.  These could include wiring issues, incorrect calibration, mismatched components and dust and debris.  For example, faulty or aging wiring could disrupt the connection between the thermostat and the furnace, causing the heater to malfunction.  Likewise, a faulty heat anticipator could lead to the furnace short cycling.  The varying nature of thermostat-related problems is a sign that you should resist the urge to fix or troubleshoot these issues yourself.  You should actually hire a knowledgeable HVAC specialist to troubleshoot and resolve the problem.

Call Now: (631) 667-3200

Issues with a Broken Heat Exchanger in the Heater

Comprising a metal passageway and chamber, the heat exchanger has the responsibility of separating the air inside the home from the combustion process.  It ensures the home stays free of carbon monoxide and other toxic flue products.

Unfortunately, the metal that covers the heat exchanger is thin and susceptible to cracking because of several factors.  These include rust, repeated moisture exposure and debris.  If this occurs, furnace problems are likely to develop.  Particularly, the furnace could fail to heat air or could completely stop blowing air.  Even worse, the previously mentioned flue products will leak into your home, creating potential health risks.  To prevent this from happening, an experienced HVAC expert should be called as soon as possible to replace the cracked heat exchanger.

Causes of Furnace Blower Motor Problems

In forced-air HVAC systems, the key function of the blower motor is to facilitate the flow of conditioned air. However, if not regularly maintained, it is likely the blower motor will malfunction for several reasons. The primary reasons for this failure include:

  • Accumulation of Dirt: Dirt accumulation and other debris could block the blower motor and cause it to fail.
  • Electrical Failure: The blower motor could fail due to electrical problems.  Common causes include capacitors issues and insufficient voltage. Issues with the blower could be difficult to troubleshoot and repair, particularly if the necessary expertise and knowledge are lacking. As such, an HVAC professional should be called to repair the issues.
  • Mechanical Failure: Mechanical problems could cause the blower motor to fail. For instance, bearings that are worn will ultimately result in the blower motor malfunctioning.  Likewise, if there's a worn-out limit switch, the blower motor will continuously run. As such, instead of conditioned air, cold air will be circulated.  Additionally, a worn-out belt drive will make starting the blower motor more difficult.  It should also be noted that tight drive belts are inclined to get worn out quicker and place needless pressure on the bearings as well.
Call For A Free Estimate: (631) 667-3200

 

Conclusion

The common furnace issues that could come about include cracked heat exchanger, blower motor issues, dirty air filter and thermostat-related issues. If any of these problems are experienced by you, an HVAC professional should be called in to resolve the problem.  Bear in mind that the furnace is a potentially dangerous and complex appliance.

When the services of an HVAC contractor are needed, Hart Home Comfort should be contacted. We deliver extraordinary heating and cooling services, which include HVAC installations, AC repairs and furnace tune-ups.

All our HVAC technicians have NATE certifications and ample experience.  They are knowledgeable about the inner workings of the heating and cooling system and can diagnose any issue accurately and provide practical solutions.  Whenever possible, all the available solutions will be presented to you so you can choose the best option for your plan and budget.

Our tremendously professional technicians are quite friendly and they have the required knowledge and expertise.  A stringent process is used when our staff is being hired to make sure your experience with us will be pleasant and extremely satisfying.  All the work we do is guaranteed. Call us now to get a free estimate.  

Call Today: (631) 667-3200