Repairing or replacing your heater in Largo, FL comes with a hefty price tag. Use these straightforward tips to spot and fix common furnace problems early.
Check the Thermostat
One of the first steps you can take to prevent problems early involves checking your furnace’s thermostat. Make sure you have it set to Heat. Also, set the thermostat to a higher temperature than the current air temperature in your house.
Replace Your Air Filters
You need to replace your furnace’s air filters every one to three months to help it function better. Dirty air filters restrict airflow and can cause the furnace to overheat. Use high-quality and proper-size filters for your heating system.
Inspect the Pilot Light
You can detect and fix problems early by inspecting the furnace’s pilot light. It should have a blue flame. An orange or red flame indicates a problem like a gas leak. If it is out, relight it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Clean the Flame Sensor
A dirty flame sensor can cause your furnace to shut itself off. You should clean it with a fine, abrasive pad. If you cannot or do not know where to find this part, hire an HVAC technician to clean the flame sensor for you.
Check the Circuit Breaker
Before you turn the furnace on for the season, make sure it has not tripped its breaker. If it has a tripped breaker, switch it back on. You can also reset it by flipping it to the Off and then the On position.
Inspect the Blower Motor
When you turn on your furnace, listen to the blower motor. It should not make any unusual noises. If you hear it make weird noises or it does not run smoothly, hire an HVAC technician to repair it.
Check the Vents
It’s also wise to check the vents in your central heating system. Make sure they are open and not blocked. If needed, vacuum or sweep out the vents to remove dust, dirt and other debris from them.
Check the Gas Supply
Before turning on the furnace, check its gas supply. Ensure the gas valve is open. Also, confirm that there are no leaks in the gas supply. A sulfur-like smell, hissing noises or dying plant life in your yard can indicate a gas line leak.
Inspect the Heat Exchanger
Additionally, inspect the heat exchanger in the furnace. Look for corrosion or cracks. This type of damage is dangerous and requires immediate professional repairs. It can cause your carbon monoxide detector to go off and prevent your furnace from producing heat.
Clean the Burners
You can prevent problems with your furnace early in the season by cleaning the burners. Dirt and dust on the burners can cause strong burning odors. Clean them off to ensure your furnace does not smell like it is burning.
Check the Igniter
If the igniter is broken or cracked, your furnace will not turn on normally. You need to replace this part if it becomes damaged. You may find it best to hire an HVAC technician to remove and replace the igniter for you.
Inspect the Inducer Motor
The inducer motor facilitates efficient combustion, distributes air evenly and safely removes combustion gases in your furnace. Listen to your furnace to ensure the inducer motor does not make unusual noises. Noises like grinding or buzzing can indicate it needs repair.
Examine the Ductwork
Leaks in the ductwork can let in air and force your furnace to work harder. They also can raise your monthly heating bills. Inspect the ductwork and seal any leaks you find. Use mastic tape or caulk to seal them.
Inspect the Thermocouple
The thermocouple in your furnace monitors the pilot light. It consists of a metal rod that connects to the line that supplies the pilot with gas. When the thermocouple detects a flame, it keeps the gas valve open. Inspect it to ensure your pilot light stays lit.
Check the Limit Switch
The limit switch is a safety device that shuts off the gas supply to burners when the furnace’s temperature gets too hot. It also cycles the blower fan on and off. If your furnace overheats, you may need to repair or replace the limit switch.
Inspect the Control Board
You can also have an HVAC technician inspect the control board. If it has any burnt or damaged components, you need to replace them before you turn on your furnace for the season.
Examine the Flame Rollout Switch
The flame rollout switch detects if there are hot exhaust gases or a fire inside the furnace’s burner compartment. You can find it on the top or side of the burner compartment. If it is tripped, reset it, and then find out what caused it to trip.
Clean Out the Condensate Drain
The condensate drain allows moisture buildup in the furnace to drain away from the unit and out of your home. Debris like algae and dirt can clog it. Clean it out to prevent problems like a water leak.
Inspect the Pressure Switch
The pressure switch shuts down your furnace and prevents it from igniting if it cannot vent carbon monoxide properly. Make sure this switch is not stuck and also that it operates normally for safe furnace operation.
Check the Vent Pipe
Before turning on the furnace, check its vent pipe. Make sure it does not have any obstructions in it. It serves as a channel for the furnace to get rid of combustion gases. A blockage can cause CO buildup in your home.
Inspect the Blower Belt
When you run your furnace continuously, you can put stress and strain on parts like the blower belt. A worn or damaged belt can cause your furnace to make a loud squealing noise. Inspect and replace the belt if it is worn out or damaged.
Check the Thermostat Wiring
Frayed or damaged wiring will cause your thermostat to malfunction. Remove the cover of your thermostat, and inspect the wiring at least once a year. Replace any damaged wiring that could prevent your thermostat from working normally.
Inspect the Furnace Door
Your furnace door needs to remain securely closed and latched. Latching the door minimizes the risk of a fire. This tip also maximizes your furnace’s efficiency.
Schedule Yearly Maintenance
You can prevent problems early with your furnace by having one of our technicians at Air Zero in Largo professionally maintain it at least once a year. This service identifies potential issues, such as worn-out parts or leaks, that can lead to costly repairs later. You can also maximize the lifespan of your heater with professional maintenance.
Choose Our Effective Furnace Maintenance Services
At Air Zero, we provide our customers in the Largo, FL area with up-front prices and comprehensive furnace services. Our team offers you a customer satisfaction guarantee on our award-winning services. As we inspect and service your furnace, we focus on saving you money and maximizing its energy efficiency. Our team also works on cooling systems and provides indoor air quality services.
Contact Air Zero today to learn more about our comprehensive furnace services!
