Common Furnace Problems & How To Prevent Them

Your furnace is vital to your home’s heating system — particularly during the frigid Pennsylvania winters. It ensures that your living space remains warm and comfortable; however, like any home appliance, it can be prone to problems.

Understanding these problems and how to prevent them can help you enjoy a more comfortable indoor environment when it counts.

In this blog post, we’ll discuss the most common furnace problems you might experience and provide some valuable maintenance tips to prevent these issues in your home.

Six Common Furnace Problems

Several issues can hinder your heating system’s performance unexpectedly. The most common furnace issues include:

Poor Maintenance

One of the most common reasons for furnace failures is neglecting routine maintenance. Over time, dust and debris can accumulate in the furnace, reducing efficiency and causing unexpected breakdowns.

To prevent this, schedule annual professional maintenance and follow some basic maintenance tasks, such as regularly changing filters.

Dirty Filters

Dirty or clogged air filters can restrict airflow, making your furnace work harder to heat your home. This decreases efficiency and can lead to overheating and damage to key components.

Replace your filters according to the manufacturer’s recommendations, usually every one to three months, depending on usage.

Ignition Issues

If your furnace’s ignition or pilot control system malfunctions, it may not start or heat properly. This could be due to a faulty ignition system or a dirty pilot light. Regular cleaning and inspection can help prevent these issues.

Thermostat Troubles

Sometimes, the problem isn’t with the furnace but rather the thermostat. A malfunctioning thermostat can cause temperature inconsistencies or prevent the furnace from turning on. Make sure your thermostat is in good working order and replace it if necessary.

Inadequate Heating

If your furnace is blowing cold air or not providing enough heat, it may be due to issues such as a malfunctioning blower motor, a faulty limit switch, or an issue with the gas supply. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can address these problems.

Strange Noises

Unusual noises from your furnace — such as banging, squealing, or rattling — could indicate various problems, including loose components or a failing blower motor. These noises should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage.

Preventing Furnace Problems Through Maintenance

Now that we’ve covered some of the most common furnace problems, let’s explore some ways regular maintenance can help prevent them:

• Annual inspections: Schedule a yearly furnace inspection by a qualified technician. They can identify and address potential problems before they get worse.
• Replace filters: Regularly replace air filters as recommended by the manufacturer. This improves airflow, reduces strain on the system, and maintains indoor air quality.
• Clear vents: Make sure all vents and registers are unobstructed to maintain proper airflow throughout your home and prevent your system from overworking.
• Check thermostat: Verify that your thermostat is functioning properly and replace the system if it’s outdated or showing signs of malfunctioning.
• Thorough cleaning: Regularly clean the furnace’s blower and fan, and lubricate moving parts to reduce friction. These steps are usually covered during your annual maintenance appointment.
• Flue & ventilation: Inspect your system for blockages or leaks in the flue and ventilation system to prevent carbon monoxide buildup from threatening your family’s health.
• Eliminate clutter: Maintain a clean and clutter-free area around the furnace to prevent dust and debris from entering the system and leading to unit failure.

Get Expert Furnace Repair With BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning

Have you noticed any of these common furnace issues with your home’s heating performance? BVSM Heating & Air Conditioning can help. With over 60 years of dedicated service to Pennsylvania families, we’re confident we can quickly resolve even the most complex malfunctions.

Request fast, effective furnace repair in Beaver Valley, PA, by calling BVSM at 724-417-9550 today.