Furnaces are what keep our homes warm on those cold winter nights, so most homeowners want them to work at their highest capacity at all times. But just like any other piece of mechanical equipment, anything can go wrong at any time. A broken furnace can be expensive to repair, and even more to replace. Here are some signs that can warn homeowners that they may need furnace repair, and how to fix them before they get out of hand.
No Pilot Light
Many older gas HVAC systems are run by fuel burning systems, which means that they will have a pilot light. If your pilot light has gone out, and cannot be easily relight, it may be a sign that the the pilot is clogged or the gas is set too low. Cleaning your pilot light can be easy with the right equipment; a thin piece of wire. Turn off your gas, and then poke the thin wire in the small orifice where the gas is supposed to come out. If you think your gas is too low, many pilot lights have an adjustable flame screw. The ideal pilot light with be a steady flame of about 2 inches, with no yellow in it.
Not Enough Heat
If your furnace is running, but not providing enough heat, it may be a sign that there is something blocking the flow of your heating and cooling system. First, check to see that none of the vents are blocking the air, and make sure they are all open. Changing the thermostat’s temperature by a few degrees is a good way to tell if the thermostat is working or not. If the air is still not coming through, it can be a problem with the filter, which may need to get replaced. If you still cannot get enough heat, you may have to have your furnace repaired by an HVAC contractor, as it could be an issue with your furnace’s blower, or the balance of the system.
Noisy Furnace
A good, healthy furnace shouldn’t make any disruptive noises. If your furnace is making noises, it may be a sign that there are issues with your HVAC systems mechanics. If you hear a noise that resembles a popping noise, it’s likely a sign of thermal expansion in the ducts. This can be fixed by making a small dent the the sheet metal where the sound is coming from. Squealing sounds often occur when the machine’s belt slips, a sign that they need to be replaced. If you hear a grinding noise in the blower, shut the unit off immediately. This likely means the motor’s bearings are worn, and will you will most likely need furnace repair by experienced professionals.