Furnace Repair Visalia

Frequently Asked Questions about Furnace Repair

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 less efficient and more prone to breakdowns.
• Frequent Repairs: If your furnace requires constant attention, it may be more economical to replace it than to keep repairing it.
• Increasing Energy Bills: A significant increase in your heating bills could indicate that your furnace is losing efficiency.
• Inconsistent Heating: Uneven temperatures throughout your house could mean your furnace is no longer distributing heat evenly.
• Strange Noises: Listen for odd noises coming from the unit.
• Yellow Flame: A healthy furnace flame should be blue. A yellow flame suggests the presence of carbon monoxide, which is a serious safety hazard. If you see a yellow flame, contact a qualified HVAC technician right away.
• Dry Air: If you notice excessive dryness, a new furnace could provide increased comfort.

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

How often should I get my furnace inspected?

It's recommended to get your furnace inspected annually , ideally before the start of the heating season. An annual furnace inspection by a qualified HVAC technician can help to identify potential problems early, extend the lifespan of your furnace, and ensure it's running safely and efficiently. .

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: A faulty thermostat can prevent the furnace from turning on or make it cycle improperly. Check your thermostat settings 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 you're not able to identify the cause and fix the problem yourself, contact a furnace repair professional.

What are the most common furnace problems?

Common furnace problems range from minor issues to major system failures, such as:

• No Heat or Reduced Heat Output: This can be caused by a variety of issues.
• Strange Noises: Unusual sounds like banging, squealing, or rumbling can indicate problems with the blower motor, igniter, or other components.
• Short Cycling: This is when the furnace turns on and off rapidly, which can be caused by a faulty thermostat, an overheating furnace, or a clogged air filter.
• Pilot Light/Ignition Problems: In older furnaces, a faulty pilot light can prevent the furnace from igniting. In newer furnaces, issues with the electronic ignition system can cause similar problems.
• Blower Motor Issues: The blower motor circulates air through the furnace and ductwork. A faulty blower motor requires attention.
• Dirty Air Filter: A clogged air filter reduces airflow and decreases furnace efficiency. . It can also cause overheating and damage..
• Cracked Heat Exchanger: This is a serious safety hazard, as it can lead to carbon monoxide leaks. A cracked heat exchanger needs to be repaired or replaced immediately.

Don't attempt DIY repairs if you're not qualified.