Sudden and abrupt furnace issues can leave homeowners at risk when the temperatures dip below the extreme in the winter season. Troubleshooting and repairs can range from a basic and simple do-it-yourself fix to complex and extensive professional services.
A DIY correction can be handled quickly and easily; however, having a relationship with a reputable and quality professional furnace repair company is essential. Find an example of a top option in the local Dayton at https://www.logan-inc.com/dayton/furnace-repair/.
Companies like this one strive for thorough and prompt assessment and repairs to keep the furnace operating at peak performance for optimal homeowner comfort and safety in the coldest temperatures.
As a homeowner, it’s important to gain insight from a heating specialist as to the cause of malfunctions to better manage care and upkeep between service calls. Let’s examine some common reasons for reaching out to your furnace repair professional.
Frequent Component Repairs for Furnaces
Qualified furnace repair contractors have the knowledge and expertise to quickly diagnose the underlying cause of malfunctions and correct these so there’s no recurrence or further complications down the road.
Furnace malfunctions usually involve parts that fail, preventing heat from being distributed throughout the household. Regardless of the furnace type, gas, electric, or oil, problems inevitably develop at some point despite adequate maintenance.
The priority is having a reliable service provider specializing in repairs and replacements to keep the system running seamlessly. Visit Guide To Heat Pump And Furnace Maintenance – Make It Right® – for tips to keep your furnace or heat pump operating smoothly. Here are the furnace parts most often replaced.
The pilot control
There can be a few reasons that the pilot doesn’t stay lit in older equipment, such as an issue with the gas supply. In any case, it’s essential to contact a credentialed heating specialist to accurately diagnose the underlying cause and help avoid harmful exposure to carbon monoxide.
As the pilot control ages, it can start to malfunction. Replacing this part restores furnace safety.
However, when a heating system reaches roughly ten years old, the contractor could recommend that the equipment be replaced. Installing a modern and more energy-efficient unit will save you from frequent repairs and high utility costs.
The ignitor
The thermostat is the control center for the furnace helping to regulate temperature and keep the house comfortable. The incoming gas is sparked by the ignitor when the thermostat signals the furnace. Those controlled electronically generate a high-voltage spark.
The hot surface ignitor system responds almost like a light bulb filament with its resistance heating element.
The furnace won’t function if there’s a problem with the ignitor. This component can fail for a few reasons, such as:
- Faulty wiring
- Wear due to age
- Power surge damage
The thermostat
The thermostat works cohesively with the furnace by signaling it to start and stop generating heat to reach the desired temperature. The furnace can become erratic with heating when the thermostat develops an issue, uneven heating throughout the house.
If the problem is thermostat-related, it can be due to a blown fuse, faulty sensor, or issues with the wiring. If the thermostat is not adequately maintained, built-up dust and dirt can cause it to malfunction. Homeowners can troubleshoot by cleaning the device before reaching out to a professional furnace technician.
Potential solutions when problems develop with the thermostat include the following:
- Replace damaged wiring or tighten loose wires
- Clean the device
- Move the thermostat to a location away from the heat source or drafts
- Change out the batteries
- Ensure the settings are accurate
- Professional service to either repair or replace the thermostat
The vent pipe/flue
Combustion byproducts are produced when the furnace generates heat. These must vent to the outside. When the vent pipe or flue becomes damaged, gases are trapped and can become dangerous if not promptly repaired by a credentialed heating specialist.
For optimal safety, exhaust gases must be properly released. Also, in order for the heating system to run at its most efficient, it relies on fresh air for combustion. Regular preventive inspections and repairs help to prevent premature ventilation fails.
Homeowners can troubleshoot potential issues or damages between service calls by paying attention for:
- Increasing utility costs
- Visible corrosion/rust
- Decreasing furnace performance
- Odd odors
- Moisture surrounding the vents or increasing humidity
A few reasons can lead to damage to this component, such as:
- Extreme weather conditions or high temperatures
- Improper installation
- Corrosive gases
- Rust
- High humidity
Final Thought
When the furnace malfunctions or stops working, homeowners can troubleshoot for simplistic causes such as thermostat batters or air filter clogs. A priority is to have the system inspected sooner rather than later to have faulty parts repaired or replaced before the damage extends to other components.
Regular preventive maintenance with a Dayton furnace repair contractor once or twice each year in the spring and fall allows the service provider to detect defects and make prompt corrections for safe and efficient operation. Read here for steps for fall furnace upkeep and why it’s vital.
