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Common Furnace Problems & How to Fix Them

Common Furnace Problems & How to Fix Them

Picture this: it’s a cold winter night, you're wrapped in a blanket, sipping hot chocolate, and you start to wonder if your furnace has decided to embark on a career change as an ice sculpture.

Fear not! The Brinks Heating & Air team is here to melt away your worries and deliver solutions hotter than a summer day.

Whether your furnace is making noises that sound like a jazz band tuning up or blowing air that’s as effective as a snowman blowing kisses, we’ve got the answers to send chills packing and keep your toes toasty!

Signs Your Furnace Needs Repair

Some signs are pretty obvious, but here are the common ones:

  • Strange noises (rattling, banging, or screeching).
  • Poor or inconsistent heating.
  • Frequent cycling on and off.
  • A rise in energy bills without increased usage.
  • Unusual smells, like gas or burning.
  • Weak or no airflow coming from the vents.
  • The thermostat not responding properly.

How to Troubleshoot Common Furnace Issues

While some issues will require an HVAC pro, you may be able to save some money and try these methods to fix the problem yourself:

  1. Check the thermostat settings to ensure it's set to "heat" and the temperature is correctly adjusted.
  2. Replace or clean the air filter if it's clogged.
  3. Ensure the furnace switch and circuit breaker are on.
  4. Inspect the vents for blockages or obstructions.
  5. Look for error codes on the control panel and consult the furnace manual for guidance.

If these measures don't improve how your furnace performs, it's time to call our experts to do a thorough diagnostic and make necessary furnace repairs

Now let's look at some specific issues our team encounters regularly and how we fix them.

Why Is the Furnace Making Strange Noises?

Strange noises can signal various issues. Here's how our experts address them:

Banging or popping could indicate expansion or contraction of air ducts or dirty burners. Our repair technicians typically start by inspecting the air ducts to check for any loose connections or obstructions that could amplify these noises.

If the issue stems from dirty burners, the technician will clean the burners to ensure they are functioning properly. This not only helps eliminate the noise but also improves the furnace's overall efficiency and safety. 

If your furnace emits a squealing or screeching sound, it likely indicates an issue with the belt or motor. Over time, the blower belt can wear out or become misaligned, causing these high-pitched noises.

To fix this, a technician will inspect the belt for signs of wear and tightness, replacing it if necessary to ensure seamless operation. The blower motor itself may require lubrication or servicing to prevent continued noise. 

Rattling sounds coming from your furnace could indicate loose components or debris in the blower. To address this issue, a technician will first turn off the furnace to ensure safety. They will then access the blower compartment to inspect for any loose hardware or foreign objects that may be causing the noise.

After securing any loose components and removing debris, the technician will reassemble the blower and test the furnace to confirm that the rattling has stopped. This straightforward fix not only eliminates the noise but also prevents potential damage to the furnace components, ensuring efficient operation.

If your furnace is producing a grinding noise, it is often an indication that the motor bearings are worn out and need replacing. To address this issue, a technician will begin by turning off the furnace and safely accessing the blower assembly.

They will inspect the motor bearings for signs of wear or damage. If the bearings are indeed worn, the technician will remove them carefully and replace them with new ones. This will help ensure that the motor operates smoothly and quietly, preventing further damage and extending the lifespan of your furnace.

Once the motor bearings are replaced, the technician will run the furnace to verify that the grinding noise has been eliminated, restoring peace and warmth to your home.

What to Do If the Furnace Is Not Heating Properly

Before you call an HVAC repair team, do these steps first: Check the thermostat settings and replace its batteries if needed. Inspect and clean or replace the air filter. Ensure there are no blockages in the air ducts or vents. Reset the furnace by turning off the power and switching it back on after a few minutes.

If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it’s time to call a professional technician. Our technicians will inspect the burners and the ignition system to see if any abnormalities or malfunctions are preventing the furnace from generating heat.

Our experts may also check the gas supply and electrical connections to ensure everything is in proper working order. This comprehensive approach helps identify and resolve the underlying causes of heating issues, restoring warmth and comfort to your home.

How to Handle Furnace Pilot Light Problems

Gas-powered furnaces occasionally run into pilot light issues that will require attention. You can check these things first before calling our techs:

  • If the pilot light is out, relight it by following your furnace’s instructions.
  • Ensure the gas valve is turned on, as a closed valve will prevent the pilot from igniting.
  • Check for drafts or dirt around the pilot light that may cause it to go out.
  • If the pilot light won’t stay lit, it could indicate a faulty thermocouple or gas valve, which will need professional repair.

Enjoy a Warm, Comfortable Home With Brinks

Basic troubleshooting like checking the thermostat, replacing air filters, and ensuring proper airflow can often resolve minor issues. However, for persistent or complex problems, it’s always best to consult a professional to avoid further damage to your furnace.

Keeping up with regular furnace maintenance will also ensure your furnace operates efficiently for years to come. Call Brinks Heating & Air today at 763-219-7859 or visit our contact us page for more information.