Top 10 Most Common Furnace Problems

01/08/24

When the cold weather settles into the northern Virginia area, families turn to their furnaces to help keep them warm. But sometimes unexpected furnace failures can creep up, sending a shiver down your spine in a hurry.

Many common issues can impact your system’s heating performance, and in this blog post, we cover them all, offering helpful troubleshooting tips so you can stay warm when it counts.

1. Clogged Filters

When your furnace’s air filter becomes clogged, it can prevent the circulation of heated air throughout your home. As your system struggles to meet your comfort demands, it can become overworked, increasing energy bills throughout winter.

The fix: Change your air filters at the proper intervals, typically once every 90 days. If you have pets, suffer from allergies, or live with immunocompromised family members, it may be necessary to change your filter more often.

2. Dirty Ductwork

Dirty ductwork can have a similar effect to clogged air filters. As dust and debris accumulate within your ductwork, it can hinder airflow, preventing the even distribution of heat throughout your home.

The fix: At the start of the heating season, clean your ductwork thoroughly. In general, it’s recommended to schedule professional duct cleaning services at least once every three to five years.

3. Excess Noise

Clunking, thumping, squealing, and grinding noises from your furnace are sure signs that something is wrong. From failing blower motor components to loose electrical elements, several issues could be at play when your furnace starts to make strange noises.

The fix: In these situations, the best way to get to the heart of the problem is by trusting an HVAC technician to provide professional furnace repair. To reduce your risk of fire or further system damage, shut down the furnace and contact your trusted technician for immediate assistance.

4. Frequent Cycling

Short-cycling is when your furnace turns on and off more often than expected. This can be caused by several things, including a clogged air filter, blocked ductwork, or an issue with your thermostat setting.

The fix: First, clean or replace your air filter as needed and ensure your ductwork is clear of dirt, dust, and debris. Then, inspect your thermostat to make sure it’s set properly. If everything looks to be in order and it still has issues, contact a heating repair specialist.

5. Gas Leaks

A slight burning odor at the start of the season as your furnace burns off excess dust is perfectly normal. However, gaseous or metallic odors are cause for immediate concern as they can be a sign of potential carbon monoxide poisoning.

The fix: The moment you smell gas coming from your furnace, turn off the gas valve, open all the windows and doors to your home, and call for immediate furnace repair. If possible, evacuate the home, as gas leaks can be life-threatening.

6. Ignition Failures

If your furnace fails to start, it can make achieving the desired comfort level impossible. Issues with the thermocouple, unlit pilot light, or clogs in your system can cause ignition failures.

The fix: Ignition failures require the skill and attention only a knowledgeable heating repair specialist can provide. Contact a furnace repair technician to handle the problem and prevent further system damage.

7. Insufficient Heating

While insufficient heating can be caused by a clogged filter, other times, it could be due to a poorly sized system. The furnace may also be installed in the wrong location.

The fix: If you’ve checked that your air filter is clean, you may need to consult an HVAC technician about a furnace replacement to ensure it’s installed properly and is the correct size for your home.

8. Poor Maintenance

Furnaces require an annual tune-up to ensure they remain in proper working condition. Poor maintenance can lead to increased system failures and reduced efficiency, driving up the cost of your heating bills.

The fix: Schedule annual furnace maintenance before winter, preferably in late summer or early autumn, to help catch repair needs early and optimize system performance.

9. Thermostat Issues

Sometimes, the issue isn’t with the furnace but rather your thermostat. Failing thermostat sensors can detect the wrong temperature, preventing your furnace from functioning properly.

The fix: Contact an HVAC technician to inspect your thermostat for potential problems with its hardware or software to get your furnace back in working order.

10. Tripped Breakers

Sometimes, a power surge can cause your circuit breaker to trip, shutting down your furnace.

The fix: Reset your circuit breaker after a power surge to get your system back up and running. However, if it’s continuously tripping, you’ll need to contact an electrician to inspect and repair your circuit breaker.

Get 24/7 Emergency Furnace Repair With Caffi Services

If you’re dealing with persistent furnace failures in your northern Virginia home, trust the team at Caffi Services to set the problem right.

Our 24/7 emergency furnace repair experts are here to deliver the fast, efficient service solutions you deserve, restoring total comfort to your home in no time.

Schedule same-day heating repair in Arlington by calling our team at (703)836-6775 today.