Furnace Repair Lexington

Frequently Asked Questions about Furnace Repair

How often should I get my furnace inspected?

It's recommended to get your furnace inspected annually , to prepare for colder months. Preventative inspections also optimize furnace function and reduce the likelihood of emergencies.

What are the most common furnace problems?

Common furnace problems range from minor issues to major system failures, such as:

• No Heat or Reduced Heat Output: This can be caused by a faulty thermostat, a clogged air filter, or a malfunctioning igniter.
• Strange Noises: Listen for any sounds out of the ordinary.
• Short Cycling: This is when the furnace turns on and off rapidly, reducing efficiency and potentially causing damage.
• Pilot Light/Ignition Problems: In older furnaces, a faulty pilot light can prevent the furnace from igniting. In newer furnaces, issues with the electronic ignition system can cause similar problems.
• Blower Motor Issues: If the blower motor isn't functioning, your furnace may not distribute heat properly. A malfunctioning blower motor can cause reduced airflow, uneven temperatures, and loud noises. requires attention.
• Dirty Air Filter: A clogged air filter restricts air circulation. It may lead to more serious problems.
• Cracked Heat Exchanger: This is a serious safety hazard, as it can lead to carbon monoxide leaks. A cracked heat exchanger needs to be repaired or replaced immediately.

If you are experiencing any of these issues, it is important to contact a qualified HVAC professional for diagnosis and repair.

What are the different types of furnaces?

The most common types of furnaces are classified by their fuel source:

• Natural Gas Furnaces: fueled by natural gas Natural gas furnaces offer cleaner energy, especially compared to oil.
• Propane Furnaces: Propane furnaces are similar to natural gas furnaces These are a good option in areas where natural gas isn't accessible.
• Oil Furnaces: Oil furnaces burn heating oil as fuel, which is stored in a tank. They require more maintenance and tend to be less efficient than gas furnaces.
• Electric Furnaces: Electric furnaces use electric resistance heating elements to generate heat.. Their installation cost is usually lower, but electricity prices can affect operating costs significantly.

Other less common types of furnaces include modulating furnaces (which offer variable heating output for better efficiency) and dual-fuel or hybrid systems (which combine a heat pump with a furnace for enhanced performance in all climates).

Why is my furnace blowing cold air?

Possible reasons for cold air include:

• Pilot light or ignition problems: If the pilot light is out, the burners won't light, and the furnace won't produce heat. Ignition issues are a common culprit.
• Thermostat issues: A faulty thermostat can prevent the furnace from turning on or make it cycle improperly. Check that your thermostat to ensure the system is set to 'heat' and the temperature setting is higher than the current room temperature.
• Overheating: If the furnace overheats, it could activate a limit switch. Overheating can also damage your furnace, so it's best to have a professional inspect the system.
• Ductwork problems: Leaks in your ductwork can allow heated air to escape into unconditioned spaces, reducing the amount of warm air that reaches your rooms.. This can also result in the furnace blowing cold air, especially if the leak is near the beginning of the ductwork run.

If you're not able to identify the cause and fix the problem yourself, contact a furnace repair professional.