Furnace Repair is a necessary part of keeping your home warm during the coldest days and nights of the year. Whether you have a gas furnace or an electric model, regular maintenance is a great way to keep your heating system running at peak performance all winter long.
A few easy tasks can make your Furnace Repair work more efficiently and cost less to operate than it would otherwise. By doing these small routine tasks, you’ll save money and ensure your home stays comfortable and cozy all season.
Check the Pilot Light
A properly functioning pilot light is a safety feature of many furnaces. This light illuminates when the unit is on and helps you see where the flame is if it should go out. If the pilot light is not lit, it’s time to call a furnace technician for a repair.
Identify Noises
There are several different furnace sounds that can be heard, including pinging or popping, rattling and squealing. If these sounds are present, they can be caused by thermal expansion in the ductwork or loose panels.
If the sound is squealing, it could be caused by the blower belt that connects the motor to the fan slipping. If the sound is clunking, it may be caused by the blower bearings that connect to the blower bearing cover and other parts.
Inspect the Heat Exchanger
Your furnace’s heat exchanger is a very important part of your system, and it can be damaged by debris or improper maintenance. This is why it’s crucial to have your system inspected every year by a professional.
When your system’s heat exchanger is damaged, the air it produces can contain dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. This can result in a fire or health risk.
The good news is that if you catch these issues in time, you can avoid significant damage and costly furnace repairs.
Inspect the Power Circuit
First, check to make sure that your furnace is receiving power. This can be done by manually testing the breaker or fuse that controls the circuit. If the breaker is tripped, it means that there’s a problem with the power to the unit.
Some furnaces have a separate power entrance at a panel near the main one, so it’s worth checking to make sure that you’re getting power from this location.
If it’s not, check to see if the circuit is tripped by another appliance or by a ground fault in the electrical system. A tripped circuit can also be caused by a short in the wiring, so be sure to check that the wires are all connected and free from obstructions or other issues.
Be sure to test the thermostat and any other electrical components that you have access to. This is an essential step in catching potential problems before they turn into full-blown disasters, so be sure to take the extra time to perform this task.
Check for a Burning Smell
A slight burning smell coming from your furnace is a common sign of a broken or loose component that needs repair. This smell typically dissipates within an hour of being activated, but it’s still a sign that you should have your technician look at your system.