Preventative maintenance can help extend the life of your furnace. It can also save energy costs by ensuring that your system is working efficiently.
Unusual noises such as banging, whining, and rattling are warning signs that your furnace needs repair. A skilled technician can quickly diagnose the problem and make the necessary FURNACE REPAIR CINCINNATI.
1. Faulty Thermostat
When a thermostat stops functioning properly, it can affect your home’s comfort. The thermostat is a key component of your heating system, controlling the temperature throughout the house and turning on the furnace when needed. Luckily, there are some simple steps you can take to troubleshoot your thermostat.
If your thermostat’s screen is blank, the first thing you should do is replace the batteries. This will restore power to the unit and allow it to monitor the room’s temperature. Make sure to use a battery that is specifically designed for your thermostat. It’s also a good idea to change out your old alkaline batteries for lithium ones, which have longer life.
Thermostats that aren’t working may be indicating a bigger problem with your heating system. You might need to replace the furnace control board or another electrical component. Regardless, you’ll want to consult with an HVAC professional before proceeding with any repairs on your own.
Another sign that the thermostat is faulty is when it’s constantly running. If you have a programmable thermostat, check that it’s set to “Heat” and not the continuous fan option. It’s also important to ensure that nothing is blocking the vents and that the time on the thermostat is correct.
You can also try resetting your thermostat if it has a memory issue, which is common in many modern smart thermostats. However, you’ll need to have the documentation from your manufacturer if you need to do this.
Lastly, if the thermostat is making strange noises, such as banging, rattling or irregular hums, it’s best to call in an HVAC professional to diagnose the problem. The humming could be due to the presence of a dangerous leak in your system or an internal fault that needs professional attention.
If the thermostat isn’t getting any power, you might have a blown fuse or a tripped circuit breaker. You can check the breaker in your electric panel, and you should reset it if it’s tripped. If it trips again, you’ll need to contact an HVAC professional. You can also open up the thermostat and inspect the wires for loose connections or damage. Be careful, since messing with thermostat wires can be very dangerous.
2. Blower Motor
The blower motor is an essential part of the furnace’s ventilation system, directing air from the bottom of the combustion compartment into the heat exchanger to warm it, and then forcing the heated air into your home’s ductwork so that it can be distributed throughout your home. Like many other components, the blower motor can be affected by a variety of problems that may require professional repair or replacement to restore full functionality.
In order to perform a comprehensive inspection of your furnace, technicians typically test the blower motor’s operating performance and inspect all of its related parts. They may also clean the burners, inspect the ignition system, and check the safety controls. These major repairs are necessary to prevent any impediments that could cause the furnace to malfunction, including issues that may threaten the safety of your home’s occupants.
Common problems that can affect your blower motor include mechanical obstructions that severely limit its operation, such as a dust or dirt buildup that may impair the blower door’s closure. They can also be caused by electrical component failures, such as a blown capacitor that fails to deliver starting power or a damaged circuit board that disrupts vital control signals.
Occasionally, your blower motor’s bearings will need to be lubricated in order to reduce friction and prolong their lifespan. This process is usually performed in conjunction with the blower door being opened to allow access. Technicians will carefully inspect the bearings for any signs of wear and add a few drops of the appropriate machine oil to them.
In addition, the blower fan and blades will be cleaned of any dust and debris that can negatively impact their performance. They’ll also be carefully inspected for any electrical signs of damage, such as melted wires or a popped fuse. Moisture damage can also be problematic for blower motors, resulting in corrosion of the motor casing and internal components or shorted wires.
3. Condensate Pump
The condensate pump is one of the most important parts of your heating and cooling system. It collects condensation produced by gas furnaces, dehumidifiers, and refrigeration systems, and moves it away from the equipment to prevent rust and other damage. If the condensate pump becomes clogged, water can leak from the system, creating a health and safety hazard for your home or business.
If you see standing water underneath your furnace or air conditioner, it’s likely that the condensate pump is clogged. It’s important to call a professional immediately, because the water will build up over time and potentially cause flooding or even mold problems in your home.
Depending on your specific needs, there are several different types of condensate pumps available to meet your home’s unique needs. For example, some pumps are designed to handle sludge and other solid materials while others are better at handling liquids.
When deciding on a new pump, make sure you choose one with an appropriate collection chamber to accommodate the amount of condensation your HVAC system produces. Additionally, choose a model with a good reputation for quality and a robust warranty to minimize the risk of premature failure.
To prevent the pump from clogging, it’s important to clean it regularly. Before you begin, turn off the power to your air conditioning unit and gas furnace. Then, disconnect the pump and remove it from the reservoir. Using clean water, rinse the pump and the reservoir. Make sure to also check the pipes for clogs and mold growth, and remove them if necessary. You should also clean the main float, and if it’s stuck, give it a gentle tap with a plastic bottle or similar tool.
Once the pump is cleaned, reconnect it and reattach any drain lines. Test the pump by pouring water into the large drain line hole on the pump. You should hear a soft humming sound when the pump is working properly. If you have any further questions or concerns, call a professional at Climate Control Company. They are trained to recognize if your condensate pump is clogged and can quickly and easily fix the problem.
4. Electrical Issues
Your furnace uses a lot of energy to keep your home warm, and electrical issues can interfere with the proper operation of this equipment. If your furnace is repeatedly tripping the circuit breaker or blowing fuses, this could indicate that there is a serious problem with the system’s electrical components.
First, check to make sure the thermostat is set to “Heat” and has fresh batteries. You can also try switching the breaker to the “On” position and then back to the “Off” position, or replacing the fuse. If these simple steps do not help, it’s time to call our team to troubleshoot and resolve the electrical problems.
Thermostat control wiring issues can cause sporadic furnace power problems. Over time, the wiring can naturally wear out and loosen, which disrupts the flow of electricity to the thermostat. You can perform a quick inspection to check for burned, loose or disconnected wires that should be addressed by a professional. However, we recommend that you do not touch any live wires. This is best left to an electrician who can handle the delicate job of inspecting and repairing your heating system’s electrical system safely.
Many older furnaces still use pilot lights to ignite the burners. Newer systems, on the other hand, typically ignite by electronic ignition. If the igniter malfunctions due to electrical problems, your furnace will not start at all.
If your furnace is prone to shutting off during peak operation, this is a sign that it’s overheating. While this can be caused by a variety of factors, including dirty air filters, blocked vents, or ductwork problems, it could also point to electrical issues in the system.
The decision to repair or replace a furnace is a complex one that requires careful consideration of multiple factors, including the age and condition of the existing unit, the nature and extent of the problem, and the homeowner’s budgetary and long-term objectives. Our experienced and knowledgeable technicians can help you weigh these options, ensuring that your residential furnace is both safe and efficient. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with a member of our team.
