When your furnace stops working, it’s more than just an inconvenience — it can disrupt your comfort, especially during those cold winter months. Understanding the common causes of furnace failure is key to effective furnace repair and keeping your home warm and cozy all year round. Below are some common causes of furnace failure:
Improper Installation
An improper furnace repair can make it run inefficiently and break down more quickly. The most common furnace installation problems you may experience are improper unit wiring and a heavy-duty furnace with small ducts. Confirm that a professional HVAC technician with experience in your specific furnace type handles the installation.
Gas Line Issues
A gas line issue occurs when the line in which the furnace receives its fuel experiences blockage or is too small for your needs. When there is an obstruction in the gas supply, the furnace won’t get enough natural gas to start up correctly and safely.
Your furnace might require a bigger gas line than you are using. You can confirm that with a gas pressure gauge. The best solution to such a problem is to contact the furnace manufacturer and buy an adapter. This can allow you to connect a larger gas line.
Only a little gas should flow through the furnace since it may damage the internal parts like the safety control and pressure regulator. If there is only a small amount of gas in your furnace, add extra lengths of natural gas piping or install an adjustable regulator.
Malfunctioning Thermostat
Signs of a malfunctioning thermostat include a furnace that may refuse to turn on or may turn on but not produce any heat. Replace the thermostat or have a professional technician inspect the furnace. The technician can spot any behind-the-scenes issues with your thermostat.
Failing Inducer Motors
The furnace inducer motor draws air through the combustion area, heat exchanger, and exhaust pipe. It has a significant role in the furnace’s overall functionality. Check if the inducer motor is the first thing you activate once the furnace starts. The motor can keep your system paths free while providing enough ventilation.
The bearings that make the motor run may go out for numerous reasons. Since you may only use the inducer motor during winter, all kinds of critters can enter the furnace during summer. Though the updated standards and flue types will keep most things out, blockages are still possible.
If you hear a high-pitched squeal, it could be the bearings or the motor housing indicating a problem with the inducer motor. Keeping your furnace clean can help it to function optimally year-round.
Failing Blower Motors
The capacitor, the motor itself, or the electrical components and the bearings can cause issues with the blower motor. A dirty blower motor can cause fan imbalances, degrading the bearings and emitting weird noises. Routine maintenance may help you avoid costly blower motor repairs. Clean your furnace regularly and stay on top of the filter replacements to protect the blower motor.
Cracked Heat Exchanger
A cracked heat exchanger may affect the appliance’s energy efficiency long before it causes a furnace failure. Depending on your type of furnace, you might have a deadly carbon leak from a cracked heat exchanger.
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Hire the Best HVAC Experts for Your Furnace Repair
Understanding these common causes of furnace failure can help you identify when to call in the professionals for a furnace repair. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues can keep your furnace running efficiently, saving you from unexpected breakdowns and providing a comfortable home temperature. When it comes to furnace repair, safety is paramount. Always consult with a professional to handle repairs and maintenance.
