Furnace Heating Repair: Common Problems and Solutions
While modern furnaces are built to last and keep your home warm during the cold months, they require regular maintenance and occasional repairs to function effectively. Without proper care, furnaces can develop issues that affect heating efficiency or cause complete breakdowns. Here, we cover some common furnace problems, troubleshooting tips, and guidance on when to call in a professional for furnace heating repair.
Clogged or Dirty Air Filter
Over time, filters accumulate dust and dirt, which restricts airflow, reduces heating efficiency, worsens indoor air quality, and can even cause the furnace to shut off. To keep your furnace running smoothly, check the air filter every 30 days. If you hold the filter up to a light and can’t see through it, it’s time to clean or replace it. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when installing a new filter.
Thermostat Issues
After checking the air filter, the thermostat should be your next point of troubleshooting. Sometimes, the thermostat is not set correctly, or it may simply need fresh batteries.
To test it, set the thermostat to “heat” and increase the temperature by five degrees above the room temperature. If this doesn’t turn on the furnace, check for other issues. Make sure the thermostat isn’t affected by external heat sources like sunlight or space heaters, as this can cause inaccurate readings.
Furnace Flame Color
The color of your furnace flame is an indicator of proper operation. A healthy gas furnace flame should be blue with a small yellow tip. If you notice other colors—such as yellow, red, or green—there may be an issue with fuel combustion or even a gas leak.
Never attempt to adjust the flame on your own. If you see anything unusual, call an HVAC professional immediately for an inspection.
Pilot Light and Gas Valve Issues
In gas furnaces with a pilot light, an extinguished pilot can prevent the furnace from producing heat. You can relight it yourself if you follow the instructions in your furnace manual carefully. Before you do, turn off the gas and wait for about 10-15 minutes. If you continue to smell gas, evacuate the building immediately and contact your gas company, as this could indicate a dangerous leak.
Proper Panel Placement
Modern furnaces have safety features that prevent them from operating if the front panel isn’t secured correctly. If you’ve recently had maintenance done or changed the filter, double-check that the access panel is firmly in place.
Unblocked Vents and Registers
In some situations, your furnace may be running, but your rooms may not feel adequately heated. Check that all vents and registers are fully open and free from obstructions. Items like rugs, furniture, or curtains can block airflow and reduce heating efficiency.
Schedule Your Furnace Heating Repair Service with Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning!
If your furnace is still not working after trying these troubleshooting steps, it may be time to contact a professional. Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning offers expert furnace repair services to help keep your home warm and comfortable. Our team can diagnose and repair a variety of furnace issues. Schedule an appointment today!
A well-functioning furnace is important for providing comfort during the cold winter months. While furnaces are generally reliable and built to last, they can still experience issues over time, especially if they’re not properly maintained. Here are some of the most frequent causes of furnace failures and tips on how furnace repair services can help.
Blower Motor Malfunctions
Even if all other parts of the furnace are working correctly, a faulty blower motor will prevent the heat from reaching your living spaces and leave your home cold. Problems with the blower motor are often due to worn belts, bearings, or fan motors. Regular maintenance by a trained HVAC technician is needed to ensure these parts remain in good condition. Replacing worn-out components right away can prevent big issues and keep your furnace running at its best.
Ignition System Failure
A malfunctioning ignition system is one of the most common furnace problems. When the ignition system fails, the burners won’t ignite, which means the furnace can’t produce any hot air. Ignition issues are often challenging to fix without specialized knowledge, so it’s best to rely on a professional for repairs. To minimize the risk of ignition problems, schedule an annual inspection.
Heat Exchanger Problems
When the heat exchanger of your furnace fails, your furnace will no longer be able to produce hot air, and you may find yourself faced with a cold home. Heat exchangers are often expensive to replace, and some homeowners choose to invest in a new furnace instead. However, replacing a worn-out heat exchanger is sometimes the more cost-efficient choice, especially if the furnace is relatively new.
Gas Burner Issues
Gas burners may not have moving parts, but they can still wear out over time. When gas burners are clogged or malfunctioning, they prevent the furnace from producing heat. This can also happen if gas valves stop working, which cuts off the gas supply to the burners. Replacing gas valves or cleaning clogged burners is a job for a qualified technician, as handling these components improperly can be dangerous.
Clogged or Dirty Air Filters
Air filters play a major role in keeping your furnace running efficiently by trapping dust and other particles before they can enter the system. Over time, however, these filters can become clogged with dirt and debris and reduce the furnace’s airflow. Not only does a clogged filter lower efficiency, but it can also lead to overheating and other mechanical issues. To prevent this, check your furnace filter every two to three months and replace it if it’s dirty.
Schedule a Furnace Repair Service with Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning!
If you’re experiencing issues with your furnace or simply want to ensure it’s in top shape for the winter, professional maintenance is the key. At Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning, our experienced technicians are ready to help you diagnose and fix any furnace problems.
Contact us today to schedule a furnace repair or maintenance appointment!
Common Furnace Issues & Quick Repairs for Your Salem, Oregon Home
As temperatures drop in Salem, Oregon, a malfunctioning furnace can quickly turn into a major problem. The key to maintaining a reliable heating system is understanding common furnace issues and addressing them promptly. By recognizing early signs of furnace trouble, you can avoid costly repairs or replacements.
The heat exchanger separates hot gases from the air circulating through your home. If cracked, it poses serious safety risks, including potential carbon monoxide leaks. While a cracked heat exchanger is a costly repair, catching this issue early through routine maintenance can prevent further damage.
2. Thermostat Malfunction
Your thermostat plays a critical role in regulating your home’s temperature. If it’s not working correctly, your furnace may not respond as expected. One telltale sign is if the fan keeps running, regardless of the temperature settings. If this happens, it may be time to check the thermostat’s settings or replace the batteries.
3. Clogged Filters
Over time, furnace filters collect dust and debris, which can lead to reduced efficiency and airflow. If left unchecked, dirty filters can strain your furnace, potentially damaging internal components like the limit switch. Regularly replacing your filters every 90 days can help keep your furnace running smoothly.
4. Pilot Light Issues
If your furnace’s pilot light is flickering or burning an unusual color like yellow, it may indicate a carbon monoxide issue. A healthy pilot light should be steady and blue. Any variations require immediate attention from a local heating expert to ensure your system is operating safely.
5. Blower Belt Problems
A squealing or screeching noise from your furnace is often the result of a worn or frayed blower belt. This belt helps drive the blower motor, which circulates air through your home. Replacing a worn belt can help restore your furnace’s efficiency and quiet operation.
6. Frequent Cycling
If your furnace constantly turns on and off, it could be cycling too frequently. This issue may be caused by a clogged filter, improper thermostat settings, or airflow problems. Frequent cycling can drive up energy bills, so it’s important to address this issue promptly to maintain efficiency.
7. Limit Switch Failure
A faulty limit switch can cause your furnace to run continuously, even when it’s not needed. This problem requires professional expertise to ensure your system shuts off properly when your home reaches the desired temperature.
Preventive Measures: Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up
At Melton’s Heating & Air Conditioning, we offer comprehensive furnace repair services in Salem, Oregon. Whether you’re dealing with a simple fix or a more complex problem, our skilled technicians are here to help.
Contact us today to schedule your furnace tune-up and keep your home warm and cozy all winter long.
