Furnace Repair New Bedford

Frequently Asked Questions about Furnace 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.. Always choose a furnace with the highest AFUE rating you can afford. Look for high-efficiency systems for maximum savings.

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 time to consider a replacement.
• Frequent Repairs: Repeated service calls can mean underlying problems.
• High Energy Bills: A spike in your heating bills might be caused by an inefficient furnace.
• Uneven Temperatures: If you have cold spots, it could indicate problems with your furnace or air distribution.
• 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.

Don't ignore potential furnace problems.

What is the difference between a single-stage and two-stage furnace?

Single-stage and two-stage furnaces differ in their heating output capabilities:
Single-stage furnaces operate at only one output level – full capacity. This may cause uneven heating and fluctuating bills because the furnace is either running at its maximum setting or completely off..
Two-stage furnaces offer two levels of heat output: a lower setting for mild weather and a higher setting for colder temperatures. This allows the furnace to modulate its output based on the actual heating demand, resulting in more consistent temperatures, quieter operation, and improved energy efficiency. A two-stage furnace may be a more expensive initial investment, but it can provide greater comfort and savings over time.

Why is my furnace blowing cold air?

Several problems can cause your furnace to blow cold air::

• Pilot light or ignition problems: If the pilot light is out, the burners won't light, and the furnace won't produce heat. In newer furnaces, a faulty electronic ignition system can prevent the burners from igniting.
• Thermostat issues: An incorrectly set or malfunctioning 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, a safety switch may shut off the burners, causing the blower to circulate cold air.. This is typically caused by a restricted airflow, often due to a dirty air filter.
• 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 your furnace is blowing cold air, it's important to troubleshoot the problem and, if necessary, call a qualified HVAC technician for repair.