Common Furnace Problems to be Aware of

Common Furnace Problems to be Aware of

When the cold season arrives, many people call a professional for the same problems afflicting furnaces. By knowing what the most common furnace problems are, you can take the proper precautions to prevent them. But with the proper annual scheduled maintenance, your furnace will continue to run efficiently and reliably. Here are some of the most common factors to look out for to keep your furnace running in good shape.

Dirty filters
Dirty or clogged air filters can clog the airflow, making a furnace work harder to circulate. Sometimes a clogged filter can damage the limit switch which controls the fan.

Wear and tear
Normal wear and tear can cause airflow problems, heat control-related problems or even overheating.

Electric ignition or pilot control problems
A defective ignition or pilot could make it hard to heat a home or commercial space. Thermocouple problems, drafts or clogs in the furnace may result in an unlit pilot light.

Defective thermostat
A defective thermostat can lead to problems with the fan and/or temperature levels.

The furnace doesn’t heat at all
A furnace that doesn’t heat at all may have problems with the thermostat setting, power, gas or the pilot light.

The furnace doesn’t heat enough
In addition to issues with a clogged filter, a furnace may not produce enough heat if it’s the wrong size for the space.

Frequent cycling
Cycling between the “On” and “Off” modes may indicate a clogged filter, wrong airflow or a bad thermostat setting.

The blower continuously runs
Blower issues may be a sign of a problem with the limit switch which may need to be replaced.

The furnace is too noisy
Rumbling, squeaking and rattles aren’t normal. These sounds may be an indicator that the furnace may have a mechanical problem, airflow reduction or a clogged burner.

Check the circuit breaker and power supply
If the furnace stops working or the thermostat’s screen is blank, this could mean the circuit breaker tripped or blew a fuse.

Maintenance
It’s important to schedule maintenance for your furnace every year. At the end of the summer or beginning of fall, hire a furnace repair specialist to inspect and service the furnace. This will fix any problems that could cause breakdowns or expensive repairs during busy winter months.

Ignition control or pilot light problems
Ignition issues should be handled by a professional as it may be a result of clogged components or defective electrical components.

Mechanical issues
This is another problem that should be handled by a technician. Otherwise, you may void the warranty on the furnace or accidentally cause a larger problem.

Natural gas or propane problems
If you suspect there’s a problem with a gas valve, it should be handled immediately by a professional.