November 14, 2021
Cities from Rocklin to San Jose can see cold temperatures and wet storms during the winter season. Furnaces are reliable heating equipment for comfort and survival in cold winter weather, but they need regular professional tune-ups and homeowner upkeep to run efficiently. Even with proper maintenance, your furnace can break down and develop problems that impact functionality.
The certified HVAC techs at Service Champions have some helpful furnace troubleshooting tips to help you find a solution if your furnace is malfunctioning.
If you encounter a furnace issue, start with these thermostat troubleshooting tips:
If your furnace won't turn on, it might be an electrical issue. A dirty air filter, a failing blower motor, or a short circuit can repeatedly trip the circuit breaker. Here’s how to inspect the furnace circuit breaker and power switch:
When your furnace is short-cycling, it could be due to a dirty or clogged air filter. A dirty air filter impedes airflow, worsens indoor air quality, and may cause your furnace to shut down or even prevent it from turning on altogether. Clogged air filters are also a potential fire hazard, potentially causing premature breakdowns that require professional repairs or complete replacement.
Ideally, you should plan for a furnace filter replacement every 30 days, a key part of good routine maintenance. To inspect the filter, hold it up to a light source and see if the light passes through. If not, clean or replace the filter and note that the arrows should point in the direction of the airflow.
If your furnace pilot light is out, you’ll need to relight it, but it’s important to do so safely. Start by checking your owner’s manual for proper instructions, then follow these steps:
One of the most common HVAC troubleshooting methods for a gas furnace is to check the electronic ignition and flame sensor for potential issues. If the furnace ignites but turns off immediately, you may have a dirty flame sensor.
To inspect the electronic igniter, locate the component near the burners and look for signs of cracks or damage. Any type of damage means the hot surface igniter should be replaced.
Here are some ways to identify why your furnace is not blowing hot air, even when the heat is on:
If your home isn’t getting proper heat or airflow, inspect all the supply and return vents. All vents should be fully open and free of obstructions, such as furniture or area rugs. If you notice anything over or in front of the vents, move those items away from the vents to keep them open and unblocked. Blocked vents and registers affect your comfort and may cause duct leaks due to excessive air pressure, which can lead to premature furnace repair.
Unusual sounds that require noisy furnace repair include rattling, screeching/squealing, booming, or buzzing. Rattling noises are typically caused by loose panels, screws, or ductwork, while screeching or squealing sounds may be due to a worn-out blower belt, motor bearing issues, or problems with the blower motor. Booming sounds are usually a sign of delayed ignition or high-pressure air duct expansion. A humming or buzzing sound is most commonly associated with an electrical issue or a straining blower motor.
To inspect your blower motor for obstructions, turn off the power at the circuit breaker and remove the blower door panel (you may need a screwdriver to remove any screws). Inspect the blower wheel with a flashlight to look for excess dirt, dust, or foreign objects.
Gently spin the blower wheel by hand to make sure it turns freely without scraping against the housing. If you notice dust or debris, use a soft-bristled brush or a vacuum with a hose attachment to gently clean the blades, then secure the door panel.
Trust the team at Service Champions for reliable electric and gas furnace repair when you notice:
Choose Service Champions for heating, cooling, plumbing, electrical, insulation, and ductwork across the Sacramento area, South Bay, Concord, and the East Bay.
Contact Service Champions today!