When you come home after a long, cold day, there’s nothing worse than realizing your furnace is broken. Many furnace issues are relatively easy to correct. If you’re experiencing major furnace problems, then a professional tanks water heater repair may be the best choice. This guide will help you fix the most common furnace problems that are more manageable.
Thermostat
One of the most common problems with a furnace is a broken thermostat. The thermostat is the heat-regulating part of the furnace that tells it when to turn on and when to switch off. If this device is broken or malfunctioning, then it can have a severe impact on how your furnace works.
The thermostat is an easy problem to fix. First, check if the batteries are dead by replacing them. If this doesn’t solve the problem, or your thermostat doesn’t work with batteries, then you can open the thermostat and gently blow on it to remove any dirt or debris. Check that the time and date settings are correct if you have a digital or programmable unit. If none of these steps work, then you might have to replace the thermostat.
Air Filter
A dirty or clogged air filter can reduce the efficiency of your furnace. The air filter draws air into the unit, warms it up, and blows out and if the filter is clogged, it could lead to furnace damage. Air filters are simple to replace. If the filter is a problem, then it will look like the furnace has died. Replace your air filters at least every six months, ideally once every three months.
Frequent Cycling
Your furnace should not constantly be turning on and off. If your unit turns on shortly after it finishes a cycle, it’s called a short cycle and thiscan happen because of a faulty thermostat or dirty air filters. Checking and replacing both of these should help the unit cycle properly. If this doesn’t work, it may be a more severe problem, and you’ll have to call out a professional.
Blower Belt
The blower belt is a rubber band that’s instrumental in making the machine work. If it becomes frayed or damaged, it can cause your furnace to malfunction. You’ll usually hear a high-pitched squealing sound if the blower belt becomes faulty. Replacing the belt will usually sort out the problem.
Heat Exchanger
Sometimes your furnace heat exchanger cracks. A cracked heat exchanger often happens if you don’t replace your air filters often enough or if you overheat your house regularly. The heat exchanger is fundamental for a safe and reliable unit by separating the warming flame from the air. Unfortunately, a cracked heat exchanger is a significant and expensive problem to solve. If you notice your heat going out and you’ve checked all the previous issues, then it may be time to call in a professional.
Final Thoughts
Your furnace is an integral part of your home, keeping you warm and cozy when the weather outside is cold. If your unit starts giving trouble, a few things on the list are often the cause. Most of these are generally easy to fix, but a more significant issue sometimes crops up. In this case, you should call a professional to ensure the safety and reliability of your furnace.
