What Are the Most Common Furnace Problems?

When the cool fall and winter weather arrive, hundreds of people call Portland furnace repair experts because of a problem with their heating system. Whether it’s a commercial or residential setting, the same basic problems plague furnaces. By knowing what the most common furnace problems are, you can take proactive measures to prevent them.

Top 10 Furnace Problems

Below are the 10 most common furnace problems. Read on for advice on how to repair and fix future furnace problems.

1. Lack of maintenance

You fail to schedule annual furnace maintenance and inspections that could prevent unexpected problems and breakdowns. These routine inspections can help the appliance run more efficiently and reliably.

2. Dirty Filters

Dirty or clogged air filters reduce airflow, making a furnace work harder to circulate. In some cases, a clogged filter may damage the limit switch, which controls the fan.

3. Wear and tear

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

4. Electric ignition or pilot control problems

A faulty ignition or pilot could make it difficult to heat a home or commercial space. Thermocouple problems, drafts or clogs in the appliance may result in an unlit pilot light.

5. Malfunctioning thermostat

A faulty thermostat can lead to problems with the fan or comfort levels.

6. The furnace doesn’t heat at all

A furnace that doesn’t perform its main task may have problems with the thermostat setting, power, gas or the pilot light.

7. The furnace doesn’t heat enough

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

8. Frequent cycling

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

9. The blower continuously runs

Blower issues may indicate a problem with the limit switch, which a professional may need to replace.

10. The furnace is too noisy

Rumbling, squeaking and rattling aren’t normal. The sounds may indicate a mechanical problem, airflow reductions or a clogged burner.

Steps You Can Take To Maintain Your Furnace

• Maintenance: Every year, at the end of the summer or beginning of fall, scheduling routine maintenance with a furnace repair specialist is crucial to maintain your furnace. The professional will get the unit ready for the upcoming cool weather and fix problems that could cause breakdowns or expensive repairs during busy winter months.
• Check the circuit breaker and power supply: If the furnace stops working or the thermostat’s screen is blank, check if the circuit breaker tripped or blew a fuse. Also, make sure the power cord is plugged into an outlet.
• Reduce drafts: If a draft causes problems with the pilot light, you may need to close the windows or doors in the room.
• Change the air filters: Dirty air filters lead to a multitude of furnace problems. Clean or replace the filter one a month, according to the manufacturer’s directions.
• Check the thermostat: If it seems as if your furnace doesn’t produce any heat, check the battery level in the thermostat. In some models, simply replacing the battery may do the trick.

If nothing seems to work, you may need to purchase a new furnace or have an furnace technician stop by to repair your furnace.

Tasks To Leave To a Furnace Repair Expert

When troubleshooting your appliance doesn’t solve your furnace issues, never hesitate to contact a trained HVAC contractor. Any furnace, regardless of its age, may pose combustion or gas-related safety hazards, so it’s always a good idea to have an expert examine the unit and suggest the best course of action.

• Furnace installation: If you need to replace your furnace, use a furnace contractor’s expertise to determine the right type and size for your home or commercial space.
• Ignition control or pilot light problems: As problems may result from clogged components or faulty electrical components, leave ignition issues to the experts.
• Natural gas or propane problems: When you suspect problems with the gas feed or valve because of a malfunction with the gas pressure regulator, call a professional for help.
• Mechanical issues: Unless you received training to repair furnaces, let professionals handle problems related to mechanical wear and tear. Otherwise, you may void the warranty on the appliance or accidentally cause a larger problem.

We are your go-to Portland HVAC company! For over 60 years our team of furnace repair experts have worked with both commercial and residential clients. Contact us today!