What To Check When Your Furnace Stops Working
Having a furnace that’s not working is incredibly annoying, especially in the colder season. There may be a simple explanation for why your furnace isn’t working again. Knowing what to look for can save you time and money, ensuring your furnace stays in optimal working condition.
Malfunctioning Thermostat
Your furnace's thermostat measures the surrounding air temperature in your home to control when the furnace turns on and off. If your thermostat is malfunctioning, it can lead to your furnace not working properly. Contacting a professional Langley furnace repair technician to come in and reset your thermostat can help address the issue and find any underlying problems you may have missed.
Pilot Light Problems
Pilot lights are responsible for igniting the gas that heats your furnace. If it's not working, your furnace won’t be able to produce heat. If your furnaces pilot light flickers or continuously goes out, it may need to be cleaned, and in some cases replaced. Ensure you follow the manufacturer instructions, or contact a professional to safely fix your pilot light.
Clogged Ductwork
If your ducts or vents are clogged, or even covered, it can restrict your furnace’s heat flow from reaching your house properly. Ensure your ductwork is clean, and nothing is covering them, and your heating system should be back to normal.
Dirty Furnace Filter
The most common cause of furnace problems is simply a dirty furnace filter because many homeowners forget to change their furnace filters. Having a dirty furnace filter will prevent smooth airflow, making it difficult for the heat to fill the house. By simply cleaning or replacing your filter, you can fix your furnace issues at home with little expense.
Gas Line Issue
Having a gas line issue is a serous problem, directly affecting the flow of fuel for your furnace. These can be potentially dangerous, and should never be handled by homeowners. A few warning signs to look for are hissing sounds near the gas line, the smell of gas, or malfunctioning gas appliances. If you suspect you have a gas line issue, immediately turn off the gas supply and contact a professional to inspect and repair the issue.
Signs Your Furnace May Need Replacement
Being able to tell whether or not your furnace just needs a few repairs or if it needs to be replaced all together is vital in knowing how to proceed without unnecessary expenses.
Here are a few signs to look out for in order to know if your furnace is in need of replacement:
The Age of Your Furnace
Increased Energy Bills
Humidity Issues
Unusual Noises
Needing Frequent Repairs
If your furnace isn’t working, start by checking common issues like a malfunctioning thermostat, pilot light problems, clogged ductwork, or a dirty furnace filter. These can often be resolved with simple fixes like cleaning or resetting components. However, more serious issues, such as a gas line problem, require immediate professional attention. You can search for furnace repair near me to find a local company. If your furnace is older, experiencing increased energy bills, making unusual noises, or needing frequent repairs, it may be time for a replacement. Addressing these issues promptly will help keep your home warm and safe.