Like any household appliance, furnaces aren’t invincible. While a well-maintained furnace can last up to 20 years, it will likely endure a hiccup or two over the course of its lifetime. Luckily, these issues are typically quick fixes that can be troubleshooted by an HVAC professional or you at home.
At ACS, we offer top-quality heating services to the Georgians who need it most. From system repairs and replacements to thermostat tweaks, our HVAC technicians provide heating solutions to homes and businesses of all sizes. If you have questions about your furnace’s HVAC health, our experts are here to tell you everything you need to know. Read below for ACS‘ guide on addressing the most common furnace issues.
Dirty Air Filters
A dirty or clogged air filter is a common culprit of furnace malfunctions. However, they are quite a simple fix if you address the problem promptly. When dirt and debris clog an air filter, they restrict airflow throughout your home. To combat this blockage, your furnace will work harder to distribute air, leading to inefficient heating and potential system shutdowns. As a home or business owner, you’ll want to replace your furnace’s air filters every 1-3 months to sustain your unit and maintain your space’s comfort.
Constantly Running Blower
If your furnace’s blower is constantly running, something isn’t right. When a blower keeps running and running, your furnace wastes valuable energy and can overextend itself until it breaks down altogether. If you notice your blower exhibits these behaviors, it’s time to check your thermostat.
If your thermostat is set to the “fan” setting, your blower will continue running. While this setting can be handy for times when your home is too humid, it should be used sparingly. Before calling in professionals, make sure your thermostat is set to “auto,” which will ensure the fan runs only when the system is heating and cooling.
If your thermostat isn’t the culprit, consider checking your fan limit switch. The fan limit switch is the safety device that monitors your furnace’s temperature, shutting off specific components when a set temperature is reached. If your blower is constantly running, your fan limit switch may be broken. In this case, try resetting or replacing the switch if it’s damaged.
Loud Noises
While it’s normal for a furnace to produce some sounds, the noise should never become excessive. It’s normal to hear your thermostat click after reaching a specific temperature or an occasional whoosh noise traveling through your ductwork. However, loud banging, high-pitched squealing, or even low-pitched humming are all sounds that require attention. For example, a high-pitched noise may indicate your furnace’s blower motor needs lubrication. In this instance, it’s best to turn your system off and call an HVAC specialist to address the sounds.
Short Cycling
A malfunctioning furnace may experience what’s known as short cycling. Short cycling occurs when a furnace is frequently turning on and off, resulting in significant energy loss and potential unit damage. Depending on the outdoor climate and programmed temperature, a furnace may short cycle several times every hour. However, if your furnace turns off and on without ever reaching the set temperature, there could be an underlying issue.
A short cycling furnace could be a result of poor airflow and overheating. If your system reaches an excessively high temperature, its built-in safety switch may turn it off and back on after cooling down. Another culprit could be poor insulation or air leaks, which allow warm air to escape your space. Lastly, you may also consider the size of your system when short cycling occurs. An oversized system may struggle to maintain your desired indoor temperature, causing it to shut down to avoid overheating. When installing your furnace, hire a seasoned HVAC professional you can trust to provide adequate unit sizing.
HVAC Heating and Cooling
If you’re searching for residential or commercial HVAC maintenance in Covington, Milledgeville, or surrounding areas, you can count on ACS to deliver the best. Our team of HVAC professionals provides top-quality workmanship and services to ensure your comfort. For more information on our HVAC installation, repair, and routine maintenance, connect with our team today!
