Furnace Repair Topeka

Frequently Asked Questions about Furnace Repair

What causes a furnace to stop working?

There are several reasons why your furnace might stop working, from minor issues to major breakdowns. Some of the most common causes include::

• 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. A malfunctioning thermostat requires replacement.
• Clogged air filter: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and prevent the furnace from working efficiently.. Try replacing the filter.
• Ignition problems: Issues with the igniter or pilot light can prevent the furnace from starting. A faulty igniter or pilot light may need to be cleaned or replaced..
• 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.

It is typically best to avoid trying to fix the furnace on your own unless you're a qualified HVAC professional.

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 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.

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 cause it to blow cold air. Check that your thermostat is set correctly and is sending a signal to the furnace to turn on.
• Overheating: If the furnace overheats, it could activate a limit switch. This is typically caused by a restricted airflow, often due to a dirty air filter.
• Ductwork problems: Seal any ductwork leaks to improve performance. Poorly insulated or leaky ducts can cause a variety of heating issues.

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

Why is my furnace making strange noises?

Strange noises from your furnace can indicate a variety of problems, it's important to pay attention to these sounds to identify potential issues early on:

• Banging or popping: Could be due to dirty burners, delayed ignition, or expanding ducts.
• Squealing or screeching: Often a sign of a problem with the blower motor or other moving parts.
• Rumbling or vibrating: Check for loose parts or components.
• Clicking: Could be caused by a faulty igniter, control board, or other electrical components. Electrical issues can be hazardous, so contact a professional.
• Whining: Similar to squealing or screeching, this indicates an issue with a motor.

Addressing the issue early can often save you from a larger expense later.