The cold weather can send you in frenzy, especially if your furnace system is acting up or has some hiccups. However, keep in mind that there are some common problems that you can fix solo, as opposed to calling the professionals to repair it.
Here are some common furnace problems you are bound to experience occasionally and how to fix them.
1. No heat troubleshooting
If your furnace is not producing any heat then you could try some DIY things before calling in the experts. Some of them are:
- Verifying that your thermostat setting is on heat
- Checking your pilot light and gas valve, you can turn the gas valve to an ON position and relight your pilot light to see if they are both working
- Reset the furnace motor, as chances are that it may be overloaded. Just press the reset button once if nothing happens then try again after 30 minutes
- Also ensure that your furnace has power, by flipping its switch ON
- You can also check if your fuse or breaker that powers the thermostat is ON and working and not blown. You can turn it ON if it is not and if it is blown just replace it
2. Thermostat malfunctions
If your furnace thermostat is not working properly, you can try some home DIY tasks to get it running again. For instance, you could turn the power OFF and remove the cover before cleaning it with a soft brush or vacuum.
Also, check if there are corrosion signs before removing it with an electronic contact cleaner. You can then change its battery if this is the problem.
3. Faulty pilot lights
If your furnace pilot lights keep going out, then there could be a couple of problems like a loose or faulty thermocouple. You can just tighten it if it is the issue. Another thing is that you pilot orifice may be clogged. You can try to clear this clog with a wire piece.
It could also mean that your settings are too low for the pilot flame. You can make the flame adjustment by turning its screw for a proper size, probably between 1.5-2 inches of flame with no yellow. You can consult your furnace manual for better adjustments.
In addition, remember to shut off the gas, switch or circuit breaker before starting this kind of inspection and fixing.
4. Broken fans
You can check if your fan is actually broken by turning your heat OFF on your thermostat, then turn to Fan Only or Auto position. If your fan does not turn ON, then it is broken.
You can then check if your circuit breaker has tripped if not, then you will need to replace your broken furnace fan.
5. Bad electrical connections
If your furnace does not have any power, check your breaker box for a blown fuse or a tripped breaker. For the blown fuse you can replace it but for the tripped breaker just turn it OFF and ON again. If both do not work then your connections might be faulty and you may need the services of a furnace technician like Advanpro Calgary, to fix it.
6. Air flow problems
This problem often means that something is preventing the air from flowing within your furnace. So just check your furnace filter, it can be dirty or not installed properly. Put it in the correct position.
You can also check the vents ensure they are open, as closed vents can lead to unnecessary heat buildup within your furnace.
If the problem persists, try pressing the rest button. You can try resetting it again after 30 minutes if it does not get any better.
7. Dirty or clogged air filter
In case you have a dirty or clogged air filter, just replace it. You can buy the same one in your furnace. Take a picture and ask the store owner to help you locate it.
Take note that most filters will have arrows showing the direction of airflow. These arrows should face your furnace duct work.
8. Blower runs all the time
If your furnace gives you this problem, check your thermostat switch, if it is set to ON, then your blower will always be running. Change the setting to Auto, this way it turns itself ON and OFF as required when it reaches the set temperature.
If problem persists, call the furnace experts.
9. Furnace age
Furnaces are built to last for long, but none can run forever. So maybe it might be time to replace it, especially if it has reached or passed its manufacturer warranty. So be informed and up-to-date with your system.
Tags: energy efficiency, home improvement, repair
