As a homeowner, you try your best to protect your family and home from threats such as leaks or external damages. Another important to-do is keeping them warm during cold days and nights. One way to do this is by checking your windows to see if they are closed and/or provide everyone with a comfortable blanket, but this isn’t nearly enough. Above all else, you must ensure that your furnace is functioning correctly, keeping your house at an ideal indoor temperature.
When a furnace malfunctions, there can be several reasons behind it. A professional can inspect the machine, but it is also important for you to recognize signs when a repair is needed to prevent future problems. Here are five common signs that indicate a repair or replacement is required.
Malfunctioning Thermostat
If you are a homeowner that uses their furnace regularly, then there will be a time when your thermostat will start to glitch. One cause of this is dead batteries. However, if your furnace fails to function, you may have a more significant issue, such as a faulty thermostat that isn’t giving correct commands to the furnace system. With a defective thermostat, your heating system may start to consume extra energy and wear out the components sooner than expected. If the batteries are dead, you will need to purchase new ones, making for a quick and easy “repair” job. However, if the thermostat is defective, you may need to call a professional to have it repaired or replaced.
Blocked Air Filters
Regardless of the season, having a home that can stay warm when you need it is beneficial to anyone. However, this may not be possible if your air filters are blocked. Causes of blockages can include everything from improper maintenance and constant use to old, worn-out components. Clogged filters can force your furnace to work harder, produce insufficient heat, and circulate air inefficiently. To avoid damage, try your best to replace air filters periodically, especially during the winter season. Once every 90 days or so is a best practice worth adopting.
Pilot Light and Ignition Issues
If the home you live in has an older furnace, an issue you may encounter is a malfunctioning pilot light. This can start to flicker due to the pilot orifice being blocked, low flame settings, or a faulty safety switch. You can relight the pilot light by following the steps provided by the manufacturer. However, if the light still is out after this, try washing the pilot orifice and increase the flame setting. During this process, ensure that the light remains blue. If this is not the case, call an HVAC service technician for help.
Gas Leaks
Any foul smell can ruin a perfect day. However, when these odours start seeping from your furnace, it can signify a possible gas leak. Most gas leaks will smell like sulphur or rotten eggs, though there are also gases that aren’t easily detectable without specialized equipment due to being odourless. If you suspect a gas leak, open all windows and get out of the house right away. Most importantly, call a professional to perform an inspection and repair the source of the leak.
Wear and Tear
A furnace that has gone years without maintenance will face complications. Like any machine, a furnace consists of many parts that rely on one another; as one begins to wear down, the others may soon follow. Having your system work harder than it should can cause permanent damage, such as blower belts malfunctioning or loose furnace panels. To avoid this, remember to check and maintain your furnace regularly.
Having a heated home, especially during cold Canadian winters, is crucial. Before your furnace starts to face issues, be aware of the signs and maintenance best practices needed to keep it running smoothly for years to come. To help support you, our professionals at Top Hat Home Comfort Services will sit down with you, perform a thorough furnace inspection, and discuss options on how to maintain your HVAC setup. Book an appointment today for informed and friendly assistance, and for peace of mind.
