Common Reasons for Heating Repair
A common furnace repair issue we deal with is a unit that’s turned off and won’t turn back on. With fuel-burning systems, the pilot light can be the culprit. You can relight it if it’s gone out, but you shouldn’t keep relighting it. If the furnace has an electric ignition system, it could be the circuit breaker. Make sure it hasn’t tripped. If it has, reset it and try the furnace again. Only reset it once. If it keeps tripping, it suggests a more severe problem with the furnace or your home’s electrical system that could be a fire hazard.
Another common issue is a furnace that turns off and on frequently. Those short cycles can drive up your heating costs and cause excessive wear and tear on your system. A potential cause is a malfunctioning thermostat or an issue with the thermostat calibration or settings. It may also be poor airflow. If there’s an airflow restriction, the furnace may overheat.
On the other hand, we often have customers call us because their furnaces are making odd and loud noises. Sometimes, the nature of the sounds can give you an idea of the problem. Banging noises can suggest a burner that is igniting inconsistently or loose parts. Squealing or whistling often indicates bad motor bearings or a worn fan belt. Alternatively, a rattling noise can signify the heat exchanger has cracked, a serious issue requiring immediate attention from one of our professionals because of the danger of carbon monoxide poisoning.
