With the official start of winter just around the corner, ensuring your furnace is in top-notch condition is a high priority. However, even the most meticulously maintained systems can encounter problems occasionally. From incessant cycling to complete failure to start, furnace issues can range from minor annoyances to major inconveniences, especially during the coldest part of the year. This article will take a close look at the most common furnace problems, their possible causes, and how to troubleshoot them. Need a reliable professional to help with a furnace repair in Fort Collins? Contact Bison Home Service!
1. Dirty or Clogged Filters
A prevalent issue with furnaces is dirty or clogged filters, which force your furnace to work harder than necessary. This issue can cause significant wear and tear on the furnace, shorten its life, and significantly reduce energy efficiency. Filters often become filled with dust, pet dander, and other debris which impede airflow. Regular maintenance is the best way to prevent this problem. Changing your air filter is a great place to start for furnace maintenance. Most people need to change their air filter every three months. We suggest that when the season changes, you change your air filter.
2. Pilot Light or Ignitor Problems
The pilot light or ignitor are essential components within a furnace as they provide the initial ignition source for the heating process. If these components are faulty or malfunctioning, it can lead to a series of problems with the furnace’s operation. For instance, if the pilot light fails to stay lit or the ignitor fails to spark, the burner won’t ignite, resulting in no heat being produced.
Frequent extinguishing of the pilot light can be due to a faulty thermocouple or a problem with the gas supply, leading to the furnace shutting off randomly. On the other hand, a malfunctioning ignitor could be due to dirt accumulation or general wear and tear, which can prevent the furnace from starting up at all. Therefore, any issues with the pilot light or ignitor can significantly impair the efficiency and functioning of your furnace.
3. Blower Motor Issues
The blower motor plays a critical role in a furnace’s operation as it is responsible for pushing heated air throughout a building’s ductwork. If the motor is damaged or begins to fail, it may stop working completely, thus preventing heat delivery. A struggling motor may also cause inconsistent heating, with some rooms getting warm while others remain cold.
If you notice excessive noise when the furnace is working that may be another indication that you have a faulty blower motor. Complications with the blower motor can result in a variety of furnace issues, affecting its efficiency and overall performance.
4. Thermostat Malfunction
Thermostat issues can drastically affect indoor comfort and cause increases in heating costs. Some of the most common thermostat issues can be attributed to something simple such as dead batteries or incorrect settings. If you suspect that you have a thermostat issue, always make sure to first check and see that your thermostat is set to the “heat” position. Also, check to see that it’s been set at the desired temperature. In Northern Colorado, it’s not uncommon to have a warm, summer-like day followed by freezing cold and snow so it’s possible that someone in your household just forgot to switch your furnace back to the heat setting.
You should also confirm that the temperature isn’t set too low. Although the house may feel cold, if it hasn’t reached the temperature that your thermostat is set at, the furnace won’t kick on.
If everything looks as it should but it’s still not working correctly despite battery changes and resetting, you may need to have your thermostat replaced.
5. Faulty Limit Switch
A limit switch is a safety device integrated into your furnace that stops the burner when the furnace gets too hot. It is created to prevent overheating and damage to the furnace. When the limit switch is faulty, it can create a range of furnace problems, disrupting its normal operation and potentially creating a hazardous situation.
If the limit switch does not function properly, it can cause the furnace to overheat, causing significant damage and possibly even a fire. Moreover, a malfunctioning limit switch may incorrectly gauge the temperature and shut the furnace down prematurely, or it may fail to switch off the burner when the heat is extreme. Both scenarios can lead to uncomfortable living conditions due to either a lack of heat or an excess of it. On the other hand, if the limit switch constantly turns the furnace off because of a false overheating signal, it can lead to continuous cycling, reducing the furnace’s overall efficiency. Therefore, keeping the limit switch in optimum condition is essential for the safe and efficient operation of your furnace.
6. Unusual or Loud Noises
Your furnace should operate quietly. If you note unusual sounds—like humming, popping, screeching, or clanging— that could be an indication something is wrong. Each noise can indicate a specific issue, like mechanical problems, airflow reductions, or a loose belt. These are issues you should never ignore, as they can escalate to severe damages and costly repairs.
Recognizing these common furnace issues early can prevent serious inconveniences, breakdowns, and high repair costs down the line. Regular maintenance and inspection of your furnace system, preferably before winter sets in, can avoid most of these problems. However, if you encounter chronic furnace problems, it’s advisable to reach out to a professional HVAC company to ensure your home remains warm and cozy all winter.
How to Troubleshoot a Furnace Problem
Understanding and identifying common furnace problems can prevent major issues and costly repairs. One of the most common signs of furnace problems is when it doesn’t start, or it continually switches off due to short cycling. If the furnace doesn’t turn on at all, check the power switch, circuit breaker, and thermostat settings. Short cycling could also be due to a dirty air filter that can restrict airflow, causing the system to shut off frequently due to overheating.
If the furnace is running but not producing any heat, it could be an issue with the ignitor or the fuel source. Ensure that the gas or oil supply is turned on and the ignitor is functional. Unusual noises and sounds during operation often indicate mechanical issues, such as a loose belt or a broken internal component. It’s always advisable to hire a professional HVAC company to perform a regular maintenance check and troubleshoot minor issues early to get the furnace running efficiently. Although there are some issues that you can potentially diagnose and fix yourself, hiring a professional will allow you to avoid any safety risks and ensure that you get the right fix for your size furnace.
Things You Can Do to Maintain Your Furnace
Maintaining your furnace is crucial for its optimal functionality and effectiveness. Regular furnace check-ups and cleaning not only prolong the lifespan of the furnace but also ensure it functions at its best during those chilly winter months. There are several things you can do to maintain your furnace, such as regularly replacing or cleaning the filter, checking and cleaning the system’s blower, and regularly inspecting the furnace’s belts for breakage. Keeping the area around the furnace clean and unobstructed is another simple but effective way to maintain its performance.
Signing up for a furnace check-up with a reputable HVAC company like Bison Home Service in Fort Collins is a great way to ensure your furnace’s proper maintenance. We conduct comprehensive check-ups, inspecting all key furnace components. We will also replace the furnace filter, if needed, and check for possible issues so they can be addressed quickly. Signing up for our furnace maintenance service not only saves you time and effort but also provides peace of mind.
Contact Bison Home Service for Furnace Repair in Fort Collins
Have a furnace problem? If you’re looking for a trustworthy HVAC company to provide furnace repair in Fort Collins, contact Bison Home Service. Our team of experienced, certified, and knowledgeable professionals is here for you whenever you need us. Our quality service and fair pricing make us the reliable choice for all of your furnace repair needs. Call today to schedule an appointment!
