A furnace is a complex piece of machinery, and there are many ways it can develop problems. The most common furnace problems include dirty filters, leaks, inconsistent cycling, and malfunctioning thermostats. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your home warm this winter.
Inadequate Heat
When your home isn’t getting enough heat, it could mean one of several things. Improper insulation could interfere with your furnace’s ability to keep indoor temperatures steady. A dirty air filter can also prevent your furnace from doing its job. The furnace will have to work harder to move air through the filter, ultimately recycling dirty air back through the home. A malfunctioning thermostat can affect your furnace’s function, causing your home to be too hot or too cold. Finally, if your furnace is too large or too small for your home, it might not be able to meet your heating needs correctly.
Frequent Cycling
When your home reaches the desired temperature, your furnace should cycle off. It will cycle back on when the temperature drops below a certain level. If you notice that your furnace is cycling on and off more frequently, you might have a dirty filter, poor airflow, flame sensor issues, or a faulty thermostat.
Pilot Light Goes Out
If you have a gas furnace, your pilot light is the part that ignites the furnace. When it goes out, your furnace cannot function.
Some of the reasons why a pilot light may go out include:
- Inactivity
- Improper maintenance
- Strong drafts
- Faulty thermocouple
- Dirt in the gas tube or pilot burner
Knocking or Rattling Noises
Furnaces make noise, but some noises can indicate a problem. If you hear your furnace knocking or rattling, something may have come loose and needs to be fixed. A loud rumbling noise after the furnace has shut off could indicate fuel was left in the combustion chamber. Either way, it is good to call a professional to get it checked out to prevent your furnace from breaking down.
Trust the Pros in Madera
At Brian’s Heating & Cooling, Inc., we pride ourselves on providing excellent service for all your heating and cooling needs in Madera, CA. Contact us today for an appointment!
