Furnace Repair San Marcos

Frequently Asked Questions about Furnace Repair

What causes a furnace to stop working?

There are many potential causes of furnace failure, 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: A faulty thermostat may not be signaling the furnace to turn on. 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 cause many problems. 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.

If you cannot identify or resolve the issue yourself, contact a qualified HVAC technician for diagnosis and repair .

What is the average lifespan of a furnace?

The average lifespan of a furnace is around 15-20 years. However, this can vary depending on several factors: depends on several factors, including::

• Maintenance: Preventative maintenance can help extend the life of your furnace. Annual checkups and timely repairs are essential.
• Usage: Frequent or continuous use puts more strain on your system.
• Quality: Higher-quality furnaces from reputable brands are typically more durable.
• 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 nearing the end of its lifespan and more prone to breakdowns.
• Frequent Repairs: If your furnace requires frequent and costly repairs, it may be more economical to replace it than to continue fixing it.
• Increasing Energy Bills: A significant increase in your heating bills might suggest 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: Listen for odd noises coming from the unit.
• 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: While not a direct indicator of malfunction, older furnaces can make your indoor air very dry.

It's important to address issues as soon as possible.

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 reset.
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 after the reset, don't attempt to diagnose or repair the issue yourself.