Imagine a bone-chilling winter day, as you and your steaming cup of coffee head over to the thermostat. The house is cold, and you wonder why your furnace has been slacking in your time of need.
In a moment like this, you need a quick solution to keep your family warm. Empire Heating & Air has compiled a list of the typical culprits behind furnace issues, and offers a few practical tips for troubleshooting.
Let’s get you warmed up, shall we?
Check Here First
Your thermostat is the central control unit for your heating system. Right now, it’s probably giving you visual confirmation of what you already figured out: something is wrong with the furnace.
Before you dig too deep, you should know that incorrect settings on the thermostat can make your heating problem appear much worse than it actually is.
We recommend checking for two common mistakes. First, ensure that your thermostat is not stuck on the “cool” setting from the previous season. Switch it to “heat” mode to activate your furnace. Second, check that the fan setting is “auto” rather than “on.” This keeps your furnace and its fan in perfect sync so that it heats most efficiently.
Airflow Is Vital
Air filters are crucial in maintaining healthy indoor air quality and allowing for efficient furnace operation. When these filters become dirty and clogged, they can hinder the flow of warm air throughout your home.
Make it a habit to inspect your air filter every 30 to 90 days, depending on your system and local air quality conditions. If you have pets and/or children in the home, a monthly change is probably required.
Replace the air filter promptly when it shows signs of dirt or clogging. A clean filter allows for proper airflow, preventing overheating and furnace shutdown.
Ductwork and Condensate Lines
While your home’s ductwork and condensate lines may remain out of sight, they should never be out of mind. They are often the “hidden culprits” behind your heating issues.
Inspect your ductwork for leaks, blockages, or damage. Leaks can result in heat loss, while blockages can impede airflow, leading to inefficient heating.
If you have a high-efficiency furnace, it likely has condensate lines responsible for removing moisture. Regularly check these lines for clogs, as blockages can prevent your furnace from igniting.
Pilot Light and Flame Sensors
The operation of your furnace often depends on the condition of its pilot light or flame sensors.
If you have an older furnace with a pilot light, it must remain continuously lit. If you can’t see that tiny blueish flame, then you should follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it.
Modern furnaces utilize flame sensors instead of pilot lights. These sensors can become coated in dust, preventing them from detecting the flame. Cleaning them gently can restore their functionality.
Addressing Gas Supply Issues
Gas supply interruptions can be a significant concern for those with gas furnaces. If your pilot light flickers out or refuses to light, it could indicate a deeper issue with the gas supply. In such cases, immediate professional assistance is essential. Call your gas company, and then call Empire Heating & Air so we can help.
Tackling Electrical Challenges
Electric furnaces operate differently from gas furnaces and may experience unique issues. Since electric furnaces rely on heat strips, they are susceptible to failure which will cause your furnace can blow cold air. Troubleshooting electrical issues in these systems is complex and typically requires professional diagnosis and maintenance.
If you suspect this to be the issue, we’ll be happy to help. Just give us a call and a service tech will be on his way to restore your family’s comfort.
Overcoming Heat Pump Limitations
Heat pumps are efficient in moderate climates but may struggle in extremely cold temperatures. When the mercury dips below 40°, heat pumps may not provide sufficient warmth.
To overcome this limitation, you should switch to emergency heat mode when the heat pump is really struggling. Consider using an air handler with heat strips or a supplemental gas furnace, depending on your home’s characteristics. Understanding how to manage this switch on your thermostat is crucial for maintaining consistent warmth.
Is Your Furnace Beyond Its Years?
As with all mechanical systems, age takes its toll on furnaces. A furnace nearing or beyond its 15th birthday might start showing signs of wear and tear, leading to overheating and inefficiencies.
Regular maintenance can prolong the lifespan of any HVAC system. We highly recommend enrolling in an ongoing maintenance plan to keep your furnace in peak condition.
Eventually, even the most well-cared-for furnace may need replacement. If you find yourself in this situation, give us a call. Our technicians can assess your needs and find budget-friendly options to restore your comfort.
It’s Called Preventative Maintenance
The Key word is “preventative”. If you find yourself in a situation where your furnace is blowing cold air on a frigid winter day, it’s likely you forgot to call for a tune-up.
The most conscientious homeowners understand the value of annual furnace maintenance. Skipping this ritual can leave your furnace vulnerable to surprises when the first cold snap arrives.
During an annual tune-up, our technicians thoroughly check all pertinent components of your HVAC system and identify any potential issues. Addressing these problems early can help you avoid a frigid disaster later in the season.
As in most cases, it is far more cost-effective to pay a small fee for maintenance than to face the hefty costs of prematurely replacing an entire HVAC system.
DIY vs. Professional Service
While some furnace issues, like thermostat settings and dirty filters, are suitable for DIY solutions, others require professional expertise.
If you suspect a problem with your gas supply, never attempt to fix it yourself. Gas-related issues are dangerous and require immediate professional intervention.
Problems involving intricate parts of your HVAC system should always be handled by trained professionals. An inexperienced hand could end up making a mountain out of a molehill. Let Empire Heating & Air get the warm air flowing again!
Final Thoughts
A well-maintained furnace is essential for winter comfort and peace of mind. If the air blowing from your vents this winter is not as warm as you’d like, hopefully this article helps you address common issues.
If you face more significant problems or need professional assistance, call Empire Heating & Air at (682) 233-3367 for prompt and reliable furnace care. Stay warm and cozy all winter long!