Troubleshooting Common Furnace Problems
With colder temperatures just around the corner, now is the time to make sure your home heating system is in top shape. Furnaces tend to give off warning signs before any major malfunctions occur. Taking a few moments to troubleshoot common furnace problems can help you save time, money, and a cold winter.
Health and Safety Issues
One of the most critical issues to address with your furnace is related to health and safety. Tackling these problems first will ensure you and your family’s safety.
Strange Noises
If any strange noises are coming from your furnace, it is likely a sign the unit is malfunctioning. This often indicates a problem with the motor or blower assembly, and you should act fast in calling a professional to get it repaired or replaced.
Short Cycling
Short cycling can become a problem if your furnace turns off and on every few minutes. Typically caused by an issue with air flow, this can put a lot of strain on your furnace and lower its efficiency. To resolve the issue, check your air filter and clean these out regularly.
Carbon Monoxide
The presence of carbon monoxide in your home is a major safety hazard. If you detect a strange smell when your furnace turns on, open some windows and call for help, as this is likely carbon monoxide present in the air.
Functional Issues
It is important both aesthetically and functionally to ensure your heating system works properly, and making sure you followed any troubleshooting steps is a great way to save time, money, and energy during the winter months.
Thermostat Problems
The first step in troubleshooting heating issues is to check the accuracy of your thermostat. If you are able to adjust the temperature, but nothing changes, it may be a sign the unit is malfunctioning. To test the accuracy, compare the temperature of your thermostat to a thermometer placed close by. Any discrepancies mean you should get your thermostat serviced or replaced.
Air Flow
Having a clogged air filter, blocked vent, or obstructed duct work could prevent air from properly circulating, leading to inadequate heating. If your heating system has air flow problems, you’ll need to replace the old filters and remove any debris in the duct work. If this doesn’t fix the issue, you may need to have a professional take a look at the system and repair any damage.
Ignition
If the furnace is incapable of turning on, it could be an issue with the ignition. You should first check the fuse box and reset the breaker switch. If this doesn’t work, the issue may be related to the thermostat or a component of the furnace itself and require the services of a professional.
If you are having difficulty troubleshooting common furnace problems or don’t feel comfortable attempting repairs yourself, it is best to call a local, reliable appliance repair professional such as Local Reliable Appliance Repair. With years of experience and the most up-to-date training, they have the knowledge to quickly diagnose and repair your furnace. Taking the time to troubleshoot common furnace problems before the cold weather sets in can help you and your family stay comfortable for longer. If you wish to read more information about Common Furnace Problems, click here.
Common Furnace Problems – H3
Furnace problems can range from inconvenient to catastrophic, depending on the nature of the issue. Taking preventive action can help avoid Common Furnace Problems, so San Diego residents should understand what some of these issues are, and what the recommended preventive measures are. Please find below a detailed list of Common Furnace Problems, and their corresponding preventive action.
Main Burner Issue – H4
This is the most common issue with furnaces, and often times it is caused by a lack of maintenance. To prevent Main Burner Issues, it is recommended to clean and serviced your furnace regularly, which will help keep the burner – and your furnace – in optimal condition.
Pilot Light Malfunction – H4
When the pilot light is not producing the right amount of flame, your furnace won’t be able to provide the necessary heat. To prevent Pilot Light Malfunction, check the pilot light at least twice per year, and replace the thermocouple annually. It is also important to check the air filter to make sure it is not causing a restriction of air flow.
Thermostat Issues – H4
This can be a tricky one as thermostats have complex mechanisms and can fail for a variety of reasons. To prevent Thermostat Issues, it is recommended to keep your thermostat clean, and run calibration tests on it at least twice a year. You should also ensure the connections are secure, and check for any corrosion.
Excessively Noisy Blower – H4
If the blower is too noisy, it can disrupt the peace in your home. To prevent this issue, clean the blower fan and check the connections to make sure they are secure. You should also make sure that the fan is properly balanced and lubricate any moving parts as needed.
High Carbon Monoxide Levels – H4
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, deadly gas – one of the biggest dangers in the home. To prevent High Carbon Monoxide levels, it is important to have your furnace inspected annually to ensure all parts are working properly and are ventilating correctly. It is also recommended to install carbon monoxide detectors throughout the home to help alert you to any dangerous levels.
By following these preventive measures, San Diego residents can help ensure that Common Furnace Problems are avoided. Taking the time for regular maintenance and ensuring safe Carbon Monoxide levels are both important for proper furnace operation. If you have any questions or concern, it is best to consult with a local appliance or HVAC technician.
Average Repair Cost for Common Furnace Problems in San Diego
For professionals and reliable advice on average repair cost for common furnace problems in San Diego, we recommend calling Local Reliable Appliance Repair.
The major parts commonly replaced when repairing furnaces in San Diego are:
- Ignitors – price can range from $90 to $115.
- Blowers – price can range from $180 to $200.
- High-Limit Switch – price can be $40 to $60.
- Gas Valves – price can range from $175 to $200 for installation.
- Transformer – price can be as low as $40 and can reach up to $50 for installation.
In addition to the cost of parts, labor cost must also be taken into consideration. generally, the labor cost in San Diego when repairing furnaces can be anywhere from $50 to $100. extra cost is added if any new materials are required.
For exceptional service and the best repair cost for common furnace issues in the San Diego area, get in touch with Local Reliable Appliance Repair.
Common Furnace Problems and How to Keep Your Home Warm
No matter where you live, chances are that cold winter evenings come with their share of furnace troubles. Common furnace problems can range from easily-fixed nuisance chores to more invasive repairs, and knowing what the problem is can help you save time, money and a few headaches.
At Reliable Appliance Repair, a local San Diego HVAC and appliance repair company, our highly trained technicians have a minimum of five years of experience dealing with all sorts of common furnace problems. We offer same-day services and fair, affordable pricing. Plus: as a first-time customer, you can get $25 off your labor fee!
From physical wear-and-tear to malfunctioning parts, there are a few troubleshooting steps you should take when it comes to identifying common furnace problems. Start by making sure the power switch is on and that the thermostat works and is properly adjusted. Additionally, ensure that the filter is clean and any vents are clear of obstructions.
If these basic steps don't solve the issue, it may be due to a faulty limit switch, which monitors the temperature of the heater and turns it off if it gets too hot. Another possibility is a gas issue, as a malfunctioning gas valve, faulty pilot light or dirty burners can all cause frequent furnace problems.
In some cases, the furnace itself may be old and need replacing entirely. While repairing or replacing your furnace can be costly, opting against doing so may leave your home subjected to cold weather or, even worse, potentially hazardous heating issues. For the safety of your home and family, it's important to routinely monitor the performance and health of your furnace.
For all your home heating needs, rely on Reliable Appliance Repair for same-day service and reparations for common furnace problems. When it comes to safety and keeping your home warm and comfortable, our experienced technicians are on call to help. Contact us today at tel:(866) 516-1222 and start taking care of your home heating needs – and get $25 off your labor fee when you sign up. Let Reliable be your go-to choice for all your home appliance needs!
FAQ – Troubleshooting Common Furnace Problems and Common Furnace Problems
How Can I Tell If My Furnace Is Not Working Properly?
Signs that your furnace is malfunctioning might include irregular noises, lower temperatures than expected, and occasional blasts of cool air. You may also notice signs of decreasing energy efficiency, higher energy bills, and uneven heating throughout your home.
What Are Some Common Causes of Furnace Issues and Malfunctions?
The most common causes of furnace malfunctions are lack of maintenance, clogged air filters, and broken belts or other worn out components. Poorly specified or installed furnaces are also a common source of issues.
How Can I Tell If My Furnace's Air Filter Needs to Be Changed?
Signs that your furnace's air filter needs changing may include unusual smells or odors, dust accumulation around the filter, and decreased air flow. You should also check your filter regularly to check for dirt and debris.
What Steps Should Be Taken to Fix a Broken Furnace?
If you suspect your furnace is broken, the first step should be to shut off the power to the furnace. Next, check the pilot light if your furnace has one. Look for clogged air filters, and check to make sure electrical connections and wiring is intact. If the problem persists, it may be necessary to call a professional service technician.
What Do I Need to Know Before Calling a Professional Service Technician?
Before calling a service technician, make sure you have information about your furnace model and any repair history. You should also consider taking pictures of any visible damage on the furnace beforehand.
For more information and assistance, please call Local Reliable Appliance Repair at (866) 516-1222.