Furnaces are like the unsung heroes of our homes, working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep us warm during the chilly months. But even they need a little help sometimes, and that’s where furnace repairs come into play. Knowing the most common furnace repairs can help homeowners identify issues early and prevent a small problem from becoming a wallet-draining ordeal. Here are the typical repairs that furnace technicians often encounter:
- Faulty Thermostat
The thermostat is your furnace’s commander, instructing it when to start and stop. When it malfunctions, your furnace might not turn on, or it could run non-stop, leading to an uncomfortable home and high energy bills. Technicians often find themselves replacing or repairing thermostats to restore order.
- Ignition or Pilot Control Problems
A furnace that won’t ignite is like a car that won’t start – it’s going nowhere fast. Whether it’s a faulty ignition system or a pilot light that won’t stay lit, these are common issues that need fixing. Modern furnaces use electronic ignitions, which can be more complex and require professional expertise.
- Frequent Cycling
A furnace that frequently turns on and off, known as short cycling, can be symptomatic of a clogged filter, improper airflow, or a bad thermostat setting. It’s not just annoying; it can also put undue stress on your furnace and increase your energy bills.
- Blower Belt Issues
Squealing sounds from your furnace can indicate that the blower belt is frayed or slipping. Replacing or adjusting the belt is a typical repair that restores quiet and efficient operation.
- Worn-Out Ball Bearings
A scraping sound indicates that the ball bearings have worn out. These bearings help the blower motor run smoothly, and when they wear out, they can cause significant damage if not replaced promptly.
- Dirty or Clogged Filters
One of the most common and preventable furnace problems is a dirty filter. A clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing the furnace to work harder, which can lead to a host of other issues. Regularly changing the filters is an easy DIY task that can prevent costly repairs.
- Air Flow Problems
Weak airflow might point to issues with the belts, fan motor, or bearings. These problems can impede your furnace’s ability to circulate warm air throughout your home, leading to cold spots and inefficiency.
- Heat Exchanger Problems
The heat exchanger is crucial for safely heating your home. If cracked or damaged, it can not only hinder your furnace’s ability to heat your house but also pose serious health risks by allowing carbon monoxide to enter your home. This is a more serious repair that requires immediate attention.
- Malfunctioning Thermostat Sensors
Thermostat sensors can become uncalibrated over time, causing erratic furnace behaviour. Recalibrating or replacing the sensor is a straightforward fix that a technician can perform.
- Leaky Ducts
Leaky or poorly insulated ducts can result in lost heat and inefficient system performance. Sealing and insulating ducts can help resolve these issues, ensuring that warm air gets where needed.
- Inadequate Maintenance
Lastly, many furnace problems stem from a need for regular maintenance. Annual check-ups can catch minor issues before they lead to major repairs and can extend the life of your furnace.
When your furnace starts acting up, trying to fix it yourself is tempting. However, furnaces are complex machines with components that require specialized knowledge. That’s why it’s best to call in professionals who can diagnose and fix the issue correctly the first time.
And that’s where Hamilton Home Comfort comes in. Don’t let the problem leave you in the cold if you’re facing furnace troubles. Contact us for reliable, efficient, professional furnace repair services that ensure winter comfort.
