Furnace Repair Hayward

Frequently Asked Questions about Furnace Repair

What causes a furnace to stop working?

There are several reasons why your furnace might stop working, from minor issues to major breakdowns. Here are some possible culprits:

• Lack of power: Check the circuit breaker to ensure the furnace is receiving power. A tripped breaker is a common and easily resolved problem.
• Thermostat problems: Check that the thermostat is set correctly to 'heat' and at a temperature higher than the current room temperature. Replace batteries if the display is blank or not working. Try resetting the thermostat or replacing the batteries. If that doesn't solve the problem, the thermostat may need to be replaced.
• Clogged air filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and prevent the furnace from working efficiently.. Try replacing the filter.
• Ignition problems: The igniter or pilot light (in older furnaces) is responsible for lighting the burners. In newer furnaces, electronic ignition systems control this process and should be checked if there are problems.
• Blower motor issues: The blower motor is crucial to distributing warm air throughout your home. If the blower motor is broken, the furnace may not produce enough heat.
• Gas supply problems (for gas furnaces): Make sure the gas supply valve to the furnace is turned on.. Check that there are no gas leaks.
• Other component failures: Other components, such as the inducer motor, capacitor, or pressure switch, might be responsible.

It is typically best to avoid trying to fix the furnace on your own unless you're a qualified HVAC professional.

What is the average lifespan of a furnace?

The average lifespan of a furnace is around 15-20 years. How long your particular furnace will last is influenced by:

• Maintenance: Preventative maintenance can help extend the lifespan of your furnace. Annual checkups and timely repairs can make your furnace more reliable.
• Usage: Frequent or continuous use puts more strain on your system.
• Quality: Well-built models tend to last longer.
• Proper Installation: Correct installation is key to longevity.

If your furnace is over 15 years old and starting to experience frequent problems, it may be time to consider replacing it.

What are the signs that my furnace needs to be replaced?

Indicators that your furnace may need replacement include:

• Age: If your furnace is 15-20 years or older, it is likely less efficient and more prone to breakdowns.
• Frequent Repairs: If your furnace requires frequent and costly repairs, it may be a better financial decision to replace it than to keep repairing it.
• Increasing Energy Bills: A significant increase in your heating bills could indicate that your furnace is losing efficiency.
• Inconsistent Heating: Uneven temperatures throughout your house could mean your furnace isn't functioning as it should.
• Strange Noises: Unusual sounds coming from your furnace, such as banging, squealing, or rumbling, can signal mechanical problems.
• Yellow Flame: A healthy furnace flame should be blue. A yellow flame can indicate the presence of carbon monoxide, which is a serious safety hazard. A yellow flame requires immediate attention.
• Dry Air: If you notice excessive dryness, a new furnace could provide increased comfort.

If you notice one or more of these warning signs, have a qualified HVAC technician inspect your furnace.

How do I reset my furnace?

Before calling for repairs, consider resetting your furnace. Here's how to reset most furnaces:

1. Turn off the furnace: Set the thermostat to the 'off' position.
2. Turn off the power: Locate the circuit breaker for your furnace and switch it off.
3. Wait: Wait a few minutes for the system to fully power down.
4. Turn the power back on: Flip the circuit breaker back to the 'on' position.
5. Turn on the furnace: Turn the thermostat back on and set it to your desired temperature.

If the problem persists or if you encounter error codes, it's best to call a qualified HVAC technician for diagnosis and repair..