Is Your Furnace on the Fritz?
A problematic furnace is the last thing Rutherford homeowners want to deal with, but the truth is that there are many complications that can occur with heating systems. If your furnace isn’t operating the way it used to, you should schedule furnace repairs with an experienced HVAC contractor promptly so that your furnace doesn’t experience permanent damage.
What’s Wrong With Your Furnace?
- Improper Cleaning and Maintenance – Replacing a heating system is expensive, so avoiding frequent replacements of HVAC components is essential. Maintenance and cleaning tasks are necessary because if you don’t take care of your furnace, it won’t function properly, resulting in a high energy bill. In addition to regular cleaning, you should schedule occasional furnace tune-ups with your HVAC contractor.
- Clogged Air Filter – A clogged air filter may be to blame if your furnace turns on but won’t blow hot air for long. Dust and debris collect on the air filter, reducing the airflow and causing your furnace to turn off. A clogged air filter and restricted airflow can also allow soot to accumulate in the heat exchanger, so you should clean this component along with the air filter. If your air filter is more than a month old, consider replacing it instead of cleaning it.
- Insufficient Heat – Reduced airflow can hinder your furnace’s ability to heat your home. If your furnace is struggling to warm up your home, you may be tempted to increase the thermostat, but you should check for problems with the air filter, blower motor, and ductwork instead.
- Faulty Thermostat – A defective manual thermostat can cause the furnace to stop producing heat, the blower to release heat intermittently, or the fan to stop forcing warm air through the home. Your thermostat can also make your furnace run for very long cycles. Your HVAC contractor will probably recommend replacing your manual thermostat with a programmable thermostat, but even programmable thermostats can pose problems if they’re not set correctly.
- Unusual Noises – Furnaces are capable of making strange noises when they malfunction. High-pitched sounds may result from problematic motors or belts, so you should ensure that all heating components are lubricated to prevent strange sounds. Squeaking or screeching occurs when a faulty blower motor turns on at the beginning of the furnace’s cycle, and rumbling occurs when a gas burner is dirty or a pilot light isn’t set properly. Loud roaring sounds can indicate a serious combustion problem that should be addressed by an HVAC specialist as soon as possible.
A trusted HVAC contractor like Parham Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric, LLC has the tools and expertise you need to solve all of your Rutherford furnace problems, so don’t hesitate to reach out if your heating system isn’t heating up your 88Rutherford home properly.
