5 Common Furnace Problems – And What To Do About Them
When you have furnace troubles, it can sometimes remind you of Murphy’s law – anything that can go wrong will go wrong.
While it’s true that there are many things that can go wrong with the furnace in your home, it’s also true that you can often recognize the issue and get it fixed early – before it becomes a bigger headache.
Here are five common furnace problems you can look out for as well as what you should do about them.
Faulty blower belt
The blower fan in the furnace has a rubber belt that can become loose, fray, or even break over time. Signs that your blower belt is wearing out include a high-pitched squealing noise. Sometimes the belt just needs to be adjusted but often it should be replaced to prevent further damage.
Frequent cycling
Have you wondered if it’s normal that your furnace is repeatedly turning on and off? The answer is no, probably not. This is called a short cycle, and it’s usually caused by a faulty thermostat or clogged air filter. There are other, more serious causes of short cycling, so it’s a good idea for an HVAC professional to inspect the issue.
Blower continuously running
The limit switch is a device that turns the air handler system to distribute warm air to the ductwork. If you hear the furnace fan constantly running, then the limit switch may be malfunctioning. Sometimes, this can be due to airflow issues, so check and replace the air filter. If the problem doesn’t go away, then it’s time to call an HVAC professional.
Worn out ball bearings
Another sound you should pay attention to is a scraping noise. This is a sign that the ball bearings are worn out. If ignored, this can cause even more significant (and expensive) damage to your furnace. Turn your unit off right away and call an HVAC professional.
Cracked heat exchanger
One of the worst furnace issues that can happen is damage to your heat exchanger. This part is a set of tubes or coils that helps convert the energy source to warm air. If the heat exchanger becomes damaged, dangerous gases can leak into your home. The best way to prevent a heat exchanger from cracking is by keeping up with scheduled maintenance on the unit. But if a crack does occur, it will be a costly repair or you’ll need to replace the entire furnace.
Professional furnace repair and maintenance
A furnace is a complicated piece of equipment. There are numerous moving parts that can wear out, and one issue can trigger another. So it’s important that you stay alert for signs and noises coming from your furnace.
When that happens, don’t troubleshoot the issue alone – call the experts at Robert B. Payne, Inc. We are here for all your furnace repair and maintenance needs. To schedule an appointment, send us a message or call today at (540) 373-5876.