Furnace Repair Mobile

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 that assesses the furnace's condition, cleans vital parts, and makes any necessary adjustments. A typical tune-up may 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

A thorough tune-up can identify minor issues early on, preventing costly repairs and prolonging the life 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 persists 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. . The AFUE rating is expressed as a percentage. For instance, a furnace with a 95% AFUE rating converts 95% of the fuel's energy into usable heat, and only 5% is wasted. 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?

Consider these indicators that your furnace might need replacing:

• Age: If your furnace is 15-20 years old or older, it's likely less efficient and more prone to breakdowns.
• Frequent Repairs: Multiple repairs, especially costly ones, suggest it's more economical to invest in a new, more reliable unit..
• High Energy Bills: A spike in your heating bills might be caused by 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 suggest mechanical issues.
• Yellow or Flickering Burner Flame: A healthy furnace flame should be blue. A yellow or flickering flame can indicate a problem with the burners, insufficient airflow, or a dangerous carbon monoxide leak. This should be addressed right away.
• Dry or Dusty Air: An old furnace may cause dry, dusty indoor air. Upgrading your system can improve comfort and IAQ.

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