While Texas doesn’t see the coldest temperatures in the country, we still experience a fair share of winter weather. And when the temperature outside dips, the last thing you want is for your furnace to stop working.
Unfortunately, furnaces and heating systems can experience various issues and problems. In this blog post, we’ll list some common problems found in home furnaces and heating systems.
If you’re experiencing any of these problems with your furnace or heating system, don’t hesitate to contact American Comfort Experts (ACE). Our comfort experts will be more than happy to take a look and get your heating system up and running again.
Common Furnace/Heating Problems
Here are some typical furnace and heating problems that you may experience in your home:
1. Ticking or Popping Noises
The first sign you might need furnace repair services may be strange noises coming from the unit itself. Ticking or popping sounds may indicate something loose inside the heating unit. These noises are usually nothing to worry about and can often be fixed with a simple tune-up of your furnace.
If the noise is accompanied by smoke or sparks, however, it could be a sign of a more severe furnace problem. If you see smoke or sparks from any heating system, turn off the unit immediately and call (281) 256-3433 for emergency service.
2. Yellow Pilot Light
The pilot light on your furnace should be blue. If it starts to turn yellow, it may be a sign that your furnace is not burning fuel correctly. We can often fix this problem with a simple adjustment to the pilot light.
Our experts will start by inspecting the pilot light to make sure it’s properly adjusted. If the pilot light is not the problem, we will examine the entire unit to identify any other issues that may be causing your furnace to burn fuel improperly.
3. Frequent Cycling
If your heating system turns on and off more frequently than usual, it may indicate that the unit is not operating efficiently. One possibility is that the air filter is dirty and must be replaced. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause the furnace to overwork itself.
If you’ve checked the air filter and it doesn’t seem to be the problem, there could be an issue with the blower motor or belt. These parts can wear out over time and may need to be replaced.
4. Uneven Heating or No Heating
Another common heating system problem we see during our heater repairs is uneven heating. You might notice that some rooms in your home are warmer or cooler than others. Or, you may feel that the temperature fluctuates from hot to cold. That can be caused by different factors, including a dirty air filter, closed vents, or obstructed ductwork.
In the worst-case scenario, your furnace may stop working altogether, and you won’t be getting any heat at all. If this happens, you should first check the thermostat to ensure it’s set to “heat” mode. If it is, there may be an issue with the system itself.
5. Strange smells
Your nose knows when something’s not right. If you notice any strange smells coming from your furnace, it could be a sign of a problem.
One of the most common faulty furnace odors is a burning smell. It’s usually nothing to worry about and may just indicate that your furnace is burning off dust or debris. However, if the smell persists or is accompanied by smoke, it could signify a more serious problem.
Another common furnace smell is musty, usually caused by mold or mildew growing in the unit. Or you may notice a gaseous smell. This could be caused by a gas leak in the furnace and should be addressed immediately.
Repair or Replace?
Once you’ve identified a problem with your furnace, you may be wondering whether it’s time for a repair or replacement. In some cases, a simple repair will do the trick and get your house heated again. However, there are times when it’s more cost-effective to replace the entire unit.
Here are a few factors to consider when making your decision:
- The age of your furnace: A furnace typically lasts around 15-20 years. If your furnace is getting up there in age, it may be more cost-effective to replace it rather than repairing it.
- The severity of the problem: A minor issue like a dirty air filter is usually an easy and inexpensive fix. But a more serious problem like a cracked heat exchanger will require a more expensive repair or replacement.
- The cost of the repair: In some cases, the repair cost may be almost as much as the cost of a new furnace. In this case, it may make more sense just to replace the unit, especially with our generous financing options.
- The frequency of repairs: It’s no secret that heaters require maintenance. But if you’ve had your furnace repaired multiple times in recent years, it may be time to consider replacing it.
If you’re still not sure whether to repair or replace your furnace, our experts can help you decide. We will inspect your unit and provide a recommendation based on our findings.
Trust American Comfort Experts for All Your Heating Needs
If you’re experiencing any of these furnace or heating problems, the best thing to do is call American Comfort Experts. Our team of experts will be able to diagnose the problem and get your furnace up and running again in no time.
We understand that a broken furnace can be a major inconvenience, so we offer 24/7 emergency service. Even if your furnace breaks down in the middle of the night, you can rest assured that our team will be there to help.
Don’t suffer through a cold winter without a working furnace. Contact ACE today!
