Guide to Furnace Maintenance and Repair

Guide to Furnace Maintenance and Repair

Furnaces are essential components of a home's heating system and play a critical role in ensuring that the home remains warm and comfortable during the colder months. However, even the most well-maintained furnaces can experience issues that need to be addressed. Understanding how to troubleshoot common furnace issues can save homeowners time and money by preventing the need for costly repair services. 

This article will discuss the most common furnace issues, how to identify them, and when to call for professional furnace repair services.

Understanding Furnace Problems

It is essential to understand that furnace problems can occur due to various reasons, such as improper installation, insufficient maintenance, or age. Furnaces have many moving parts that can wear down over time, which can cause the furnace to fail. Some of the most common furnace problems include:

• Dirty air filters

• Blocked air ducts

• Ignition system problems

• Thermostat malfunctions

• Damaged heating elements

Common Furnace Issues and Their Symptoms

Below are some of the most common furnace issues and their symptoms:

Dirty air filters

Furnace filters should be changed regularly to prevent a buildup of dirt and debris. When the filters become clogged, the furnace will struggle to circulate air, causing the system to work harder and reduce efficiency.

Blocked air ducts

Blocked air ducts can restrict airflow and lead to a decrease in heating efficiency.

Ignition system problems

Furnace ignition systems can fail due to a variety of reasons, such as dirty burners, a faulty thermocouple, or a malfunctioning control board.

Thermostat malfunctions

A faulty thermostat can cause the furnace to fail to turn on or off, leading to inefficient heating and increased energy costs.

Damaged heating elements

Over time, the heating elements in a furnace can become damaged and stop functioning, causing the furnace to fail to produce heat.

DIY Troubleshooting Tips

Before calling for furnace repair services, homeowners can try some simple troubleshooting tips to resolve common furnace issues. These tips include:

Checking the air filters

Homeowners can check the air filters to ensure that they are clean and not clogged with dirt and debris.

Clearing air ducts

Blocked air ducts can be cleared with a vacuum cleaner or a long brush.

Checking the thermostat 

Homeowners can check the thermostat to ensure it is set correctly and properly functioning.

Inspecting the ignition system

The ignition system should be inspected for any signs of damage or dirt buildup.

Replacing heating elements

Damaged heating elements can be replaced by a professional HVAC technician.

When to Call for Furnace Repair Services

If the DIY troubleshooting tips do not resolve the furnace issues, it may be necessary to call for professional furnace repair services. Homeowners should call for furnace repair services if they experience any of the following issues:

• The furnace fails to turn on

• The furnace produces strange noises

• The furnace produces insufficient heat

• The furnace runs continuously without turning off

• The furnace smells strange

Conclusion

At Wayne's Heating and Air Conditioning, our HVAC experts in Blairsville, GA, prioritize client satisfaction. We specialize in servicing and repairing air conditioning, heat pumps, gas furnaces, and related systems. Whether you're setting up a new office or moving into a new home, our expert staff will guide you from planning to installation, ensuring the best options for your needs and budget.

 Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I have my furnace inspected?

It is recommended to have your furnace inspected annually by a professional HVAC technician to ensure that it is functioning efficiently and to prevent any potential issues from escalating into major problems.

What is the average lifespan of a furnace?

The average lifespan of a furnace is 15-20 years. However, proper maintenance and regular inspections can extend the life of a furnace and keep it functioning efficiently.

What is the cost of furnace repair services?

The cost of furnace repair services varies based on the type of issue and the complexity of the repair. It is recommended to get multiple quotes from different HVAC repair and maintenance companies to ensure that you are getting a fair price for the services.

Can I repair my furnace on my own?

While some simple troubleshooting tips can be performed by homeowners, it is recommended to call for professional furnace repair services for any major issues. Attempting to repair a furnace on your own can be dangerous and can cause further damage to the system.