Furnace Repair Livonia

Frequently Asked Questions about Furnace Repair

What is a furnace tune-up?

A furnace tune-up is an annual checkup performed by a qualified HVAC technician to ensure optimal performance, energy efficiency, and safety. A typical tune-up involves several checks and maintenance tasks, which often include:

• Inspecting and cleaning the burners
• Checking the heat exchanger for cracks or leaks
• Inspecting the blower motor and fan
• Checking the flue pipe for proper venting
• Testing the safety controls
• Lubricating moving parts
• Checking refrigerant levels (for heat pumps)
• Testing for carbon monoxide leaks

Annual tune-ups maximize the life and efficiency of your furnace.

How do I reset my furnace?

If your furnace isn't working correctly, a simple reset can sometimes resolve the issue. 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 continues or if you encounter error codes, it's best to call a qualified HVAC technician for diagnosis and repair..

What is an AFUE rating?

AFUE stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. It is a measure of how effectively a furnace converts fuel to heat. . It's a percentage reflecting how much of the energy in the fuel becomes heat for your space. For instance, a furnace with a 95% AFUE rating converts 95% of the fuel's energy into usable heat, while the remaining 5% is lost as exhaust gases.. Higher AFUE ratings mean greater efficiency and lower heating costs. The minimum AFUE rating for new furnaces is 80%, but high-efficiency models can have AFUE ratings of 90% to 98% or more.

How do I know when it's time to replace my furnace?

Here are signs that your furnace is nearing the end of its lifespan and may need replacing::

• Age: If your furnace is 15-20 years old or older, it's likely time to consider a replacement.
• Frequent Repairs: Multiple repairs, especially costly ones, suggest it's more economical to invest in a new, more reliable unit..
• High Energy Bills: A noticeable increase in your heating bills could mean an inefficient furnace.
• Uneven Temperatures: If some rooms in your house are colder than others, it could indicate problems with your furnace or ductwork.
• Strange Noises: Banging, squealing, or rumbling noises can signal problems with the blower motor, igniter, or other components..
• Yellow or Flickering Burner Flame: A healthy furnace flame should be blue. A yellow or flickering flame can indicate a variety of issues. If you notice a yellow flame, contact an HVAC technician immediately..
• Dry or Dusty Air: An old furnace may cause dry, dusty indoor air. A new furnace with improved filtration can help alleviate this problem.

If you're experiencing any of these signs, it's advisable to consult with an HVAC professional for a furnace inspection and assessment.