Furnaces are designed to last, but as with any mechanical device, they require routine maintenance. When you hear noises, such as banging or rattling coming from your furnace, it may be time for repair services to arrive.
Before calling in a technician, try these straightforward troubleshooting steps at home first; they could save money on costly repairs.
Faulty Igniter
A furnace igniter is one of the essential elements in any home heating system, heating up small pieces of metal in order to combust gas in your burner chamber. Because igniters tend to burn out over time, you should anticipate needing replacements from time to time.
An improper ignition system is usually the root cause of furnace nonstarter issues. This issue typically pertains to either the igniter itself or safety mechanisms meant to keep gas from combusting, potentially endangering you and your family’s safety.
If you suspect your igniter may not be functioning correctly, testing it yourself before consulting an expert is one option to explore.
A multimeter can be purchased at most hardware stores or online. You can learn more by clicking the link. First, shut off power to your furnace by turning off both thermostat and circuit breaker before disconnecting all wiring connected to it before taking steps to remove and reconnect the igniter from the furnace and disconnect wires from it.
Next, use two-meter leads on both sides of the igniter plug to test its resistance. A good igniter should register between 40 to 200 ohms on both leads of your meter; otherwise, it registers infinity and must be replaced immediately.
Ensure you purchase an identical replacement model; use your furnace manual or ask an employee at your local hardware store to help identify its number accurately.
Faulty Thermostat
Thermostats are typically designed to operate quietly, but if something goes amiss, they may make odd noises. If you hear any strange squeaking, clunking, or banging noises coming from your thermostat, it could indicate it needs professional repair. Pros like the ones at Larsen Heating should be able to diagnose your issue quickly. Be sure to research reputable professionals in your area.
Larsen Heating and Air Conditioning
1553 S 580 E #103, American Fork, UT 84003, United States
801-983-7333
Your thermostat’s heating functionality relies on its blower motor for distribution of heated air throughout your home. If you hear a high-pitched squealing sound coming from it, that indicates deterioration in its belt that needs replacing as soon as possible.
As furnaces are complex systems that may pose potential safety risks if improperly handled, professional repairs should always be considered to ensure warranty validity. If DIY repair attempts prove unsuccessful, it’s wise to seek the advice of an expert technician for any repair work needed on your furnace.
Faulty Combustion Chamber
If the flame in your furnace’s burner appears to dance or jump when your blower turns on, this could be an indicator of a cracked combustion chamber. Cracks allow waste gases from outside to mix with warm air blown into your ducts by the blower and cause serious health risks.
Most furnaces feature a small window, allowing homeowners to monitor what is taking place inside. If flame flickers or dances during the heating cycle it indicates improper combustion is taking place and you should schedule an appointment for professional inspection immediately.
If your furnace is cycling on and off frequently, this could indicate either mechanical problems or ineffective thermostat settings. Also pay attention to how your blower sounds while it is operating – any rattles, rumbles, or squealing sounds could indicate worn motor bearings or frayed belts in its operation.
Faulty pilot light or ignition sensor issues are another source of furnace inactivity. You can click the link: https://www.energy.gov/getting-ready-set-thermostat-low-and-keep-it-there for more information about furnace settings.
To check for this issue, start by making sure your thermostat is set to heat and your breaker hasn’t tripped; alternatively, you could manually toggle your furnace switch in your home’s breaker panel until it comes on. If this doesn’t help, then professional assistance may be required for gas supply issues that need addressing immediately.
Carbon Monoxide Leak
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, tasteless gas that can be deadly in high doses. It is produced when fuels like natural gas are incompletely burned by furnaces and other appliances.
One of the best ways to prevent carbon monoxide leaks is having your furnace regularly inspected and serviced by a professional. An inspector will check to make sure the heat exchanger is in proper working condition, as well as ensure all aspects of your system are functioning as intended.
Keep an eye out for dirty furnace filters; regularly changing them could prevent carbon monoxide and other combustion gasses from building up in your system and potentially backflowing.
Finally, installing carbon monoxide detectors in your home can be invaluable when you have children or elderly individuals living there. When CO levels rise unexpectedly, the alarm will sound and alert all family members of an imminent threat – an inexpensive yet effective way to keep everyone safe from potentially life-threatening scenarios.
