Even here in Florida, your furnace becomes essential during winter. Ensuring it functions safely and effectively is critical to be ready for a cold snap. Although they can last 15 to 30 years, they require proper furnace maintenance and prompt repairs to protect their lifespan. Our team at Snowbird Heating & Cooling in Auburndale, FL is here to help you learn about common furnace problems and the associated signs so that you can take proper action.
1. Dirty or Clogged Air Filters
Air filters are critical for your furnace’s function. They trap dust, debris, and allergens and become dirty or clogged over time. Dirty or clogged air filters force your furnace to work harder than necessary. You may notice less efficiency and overheating. Other signs of dirty or clogged air filters include:
- Reduced airflow
- Uneven heating
- Increased dust throughout the home
- Frequent short cycling
- Sudden increases in electricity costs
Inspect your furnace filters regularly for any signs of dirt and debris. Most manufacturers recommend changing or cleaning furnace filters every one to three months, depending on usage. If airflow issues persist after a changed filter, other matters could require help from one of our technicians.
2. Failing Thermostat
Thermostats are critical for normal furnace function because they control the temperature during operation. A faulty thermostat can cause your furnace to run continuously or never come on at all. Thermostat issues can occur because of dead batteries, wiring problems, and wear and tear from age.
You may experience inaccurate temperature readings, failure to respond, or temperature swings. If your display does not light up, try changing the batteries. Our HVAC technicians can inspect and test your thermostat to diagnose the problem. Then we can calibrate, repair, or replace the thermostat based on our findings.
3. Pilot Light or Ignition Issues
Older furnaces use pilot lights while newer systems require electronic ignitions. The furnace will not produce heat without a working pilot light or ignition. Dirt buildup, sensor issues, or a faulty thermocouple may cause furnace malfunctions. We offer diagnostic services to determine the cause of your furnace issues.
Signs of pilot light or ignition issues include short cycling, a yellow or flickering pilot light, or clicking sounds with an electronic ignition system. Pilot light issues on older furnaces can be dangerous because they allow carbon monoxide buildup in your home. Professional servicing is necessary to clean or replace failing components. Never ignore your carbon monoxide detectors — they could save your life.
4. Blower Motor Failure
Your furnace’s blower motor is an essential component that powers the fan that blows warm air through your home’s ductwork. A failing blower motor may prevent air circulation even though the furnace heats correctly.
To spot blower motor failure, pay attention to these warning signs:
- Little to no air coming from vents
- Silent blower
- Burning smells or smoke
- Unusual noises like humming or grinding
Turn your furnace off immediately if you notice burning or smoke. These two signs likely mean overheating or internal component damage to the motor. Before operating your furnace, rely on our technicians for blower motor replacement.
5. Cracked Heat Exchanger
A heat exchanger transfers heat from the combustion process to the air circulating through your furnace, preventing harmful gases from entering your home’s air supply. Wear and tear from age or overheating can lead to heat exchanger cracks, which allow dangerous carbon monoxide to escape the combustion chamber. You may notice the following signs:
- Soot around the furnace unit
- Carbon monoxide detector warnings
- Ineffective heating
- Flu-like symptoms among household members
If you suspect a carbon monoxide leak, shut off the furnace immediately, and evacuate your home. Carbon monoxide is odorless, tasteless, and colorless. You must have carbon monoxide detectors installed. The only safe solution for heat exchanger cracks is a professional replacement.
6. Clogged or Obstructed Vents
Supply and return vents help circulate warm air throughout your home. Keep vents open in all rooms, even if they’re unoccupied, and monitor for blockages caused by furniture, toys, or other items. Obstructions and clogs limit circulation and cause your furnace to work harder than it should.
Some rooms may fail to heat, have weakened airflow, or have a louder or whistling operation. Your furnace may short cycle if the obstruction is severe. You may need ductwork cleaning or repair if the issues persist without any blockages inside your home.
7. Short Cycling
Short cycling is a common problem that causes furnaces to shut on and off frequently. Failing to complete the heating cycle strains the furnace components and reduces your system’s efficiency.
Signs associated with short cycling include:
- Shutting off before reaching the desired temperature
- Sudden increases in electricity costs
- Increased component wear and tear
- Running inconsistently
A dirty or clogged air filter could be to blame for short cycling, so check it first. Our technicians will inspect your furnace and perform testing to find the problem, which could result from thermostat or flame sensor issues.
8. Noisy Operation
Over time, you grow accustomed to your furnace’s normal operating sounds. Excessive or unusual noises may indicate failing parts or airflow concerns. Squealing and banging suggest loose components, worn belts, and motor failure. If you notice these sounds, ask our furnace repair team to check the problem. Loud noises may indicate only a minor issue like a loose screw, but significant problems can also cause louder or unusual noises.
9. Thermocouple Failure
Thermocouples are safety devices installed in gas furnaces. These components shut off the gas supply in case of a pilot light problem. Thermocouples can protect your household from dangerous gas leaks.
A failing thermocouple may falsely detect pilot light issues and cause gas supply problems. One primary sign of thermocouple issues is a lack of gas supply, but you may also notice that your pilot light will not stay lit. Our technicians can test your thermocouple to determine whether you need repairs or a new furnace to be safe.
10. Furnace Not Heating
Furnaces will fail to heat for many reasons, including electrical, gas, or ignition problems. You may also discover that your furnace will not heat because of a clogged air filter or a thermostat malfunction. Your furnace may run but produce only cold air. The thermostat may fail to trigger proper operation.
To see what’s wrong, set your thermostat to a temperature higher than your current room temperature and the heat setting. You can also check the gas supply and pilot light. You will need a professional diagnosis if you do not notice any apparent issues, but your furnace still lacks heat.
Monitor Your Furnace’s Operation
Knowing how to recognize furnace problems can save you time, money, and aggravation. In addition to frequently checking your furnace for problems, you need professional maintenance. This can help you discover minor issues before they increase in cost and severity.
Snowbird Heating & Cooling is a full-service plumbing and HVAC contractor in Auburndale. We offer heating installation, maintenance, and repair services for all makes and models of HVAC systems, including heat pumps and mini-splits. Our plumbing services include water heaters, drains, repiping, and water treatment. We opened our doors in 1991 and continue to work to exceed our customers’ expectations.
Call our expert HVAC technicians at Snowbird Heating & Cooling when you need furnace service in Auburndale.
