A furnace breakdown in the middle of winter is every homeowner’s worst nightmare. Without heat, your home can quickly become uncomfortable and left in extreme cold, which can be dangerous. Most furnace failures can be avoided with proper maintenance and early detection of warning signs. Absolute P&M Services will cover some of the most common furnace failures, what causes them, and how you can prevent costly repairs or a full system replacement.
Ignition or Pilot Light Problems
Furnaces use electronic ignition systems or pilot lights to start the heating process. If either fails, your furnace won’t produce heat. Signs of ignition problem include:
• Furnace clicks but doesn’t turn on
• Pilot light won’t stay lit
• Intermittent heating
If you have a standing pilot light, make sure it’s burning a steady blue flame not yellow. Keep the igniter or pilot assembly clean to prevent dirt buildup. Schedule annual furnace maintenance to ensure ignition components are working properly.
Blower Motor Failure
The blower motor pushes heated air through your home. If it fails, your furnace will run, but no warm air will circulate. Signs of blower motor failures include:
• No airflow from vents
• Strange humming or rattling noises
• Furnace overheats and shuts off unexpectedly
Keep air filters clean to reduce strain on the blower motor. Schedule regular lubrication and inspection of the blower motor. Listen for unusual noises and address them before the motor fails completely.
Cracked Heat Exchanger
The heat exchanger separates combustion gases from the indoor air you breathe. A cracked heat exchanger can leak carbon monoxide into your home which is a serious health risk. Signs of a cracked heat exchanger are:
• Soot buildup around the furnace
• Unusual odors, like a strong burning smell
• Family members experiencing headaches, nausea, or dizziness and possible carbon monoxide poisoning.
Schedule annual furnace inspections to check for cracks or leaks. Install carbon monoxide detectors near your furnace and bedrooms. Replace old furnaces (10-15+ years) before major components fail.
Faulty Limit Switch
The limit switch controls when your furnace’s blower fan turns on and off. If it malfunctions, your fan may run continuously or fail to turn on when needed. A faulty limit switch will cause:
• Blower fan runs non-stop
• Furnace overheats and shuts down prematurely
• Increased energy bills
Replace air filters to reduce overheating which can damage the limit switch. Have an HVAC technician test and replace a failing limit switch. Ensure vents and registers are open to promote proper airflow.
Clogged or Leaking Condensate Drain
High-efficiency furnaces produce condensation, which drains through a pipe. A clogged drain line can lead to system shutdowns or even water damage. Signs your condensate drain being clogged are:
• Water pooling near the furnace
• Furnace shutting off unexpectedly
• Musty odors around the system
Clear the drain line regularly to prevent blockages. You can use a vinegar and water solution to clean the drain trap. Schedule annual furnace maintenance to check for leaks.
Gas Line or Electrical Issues
Furnaces rely on either gas or electricity to function. Gas leaks or faulty electrical components can prevent the system from working and pose serious safety risks. Signs of gas or electrical problems include:
• The furnace won’t turn on at all
• Strong gas smell
• Tripped circuit breakers
Have gas lines and electrical connections inspected annually. Install a carbon monoxide detector to alert you to gas leaks. If your furnace repeatedly trips breakers, call an HVAC technician to diagnose the issue.
Central Forced Air Furnace Heating Maintenance, Repairs, Replacement & More in Santa Fe, Tomball, Sugar Land, Galveston, Austin & Greater Houston, Texas
A failing furnace can leave you in the cold, but with proper maintenance and early detection, you can prevent most heating emergencies. If you find your furnace is running into any of these common problems, contact Absolute P&M Services today.
