Common Furnace Problems and How to Troubleshoot Them

When winter strikes, your furnace is your home’s most important ally. It keeps your space warm and cozy, ensuring you can tackle even the chilliest of days with comfort. But what happens when that furnace stops working or starts acting up? Furnace repair can seem daunting, but with the right guidance, many issues are manageable by homeowners. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through some common furnace problems and how to repair them safely.

Before jumping into any repairs, it’s important to remember that working with furnaces involves gas, electricity, and high temperatures. If you're ever unsure or feel unsafe, it’s always best to call a professional. But for those of you who want to tackle smaller issues, let’s dive into some troubleshooting steps.

1. The Furnace Won’t Turn On

If your furnace isn’t turning on, the first thing to check is the thermostat. Make sure it’s set to "heat" and that the temperature is set above the current room temperature. If the thermostat appears fine, check the power supply. A blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker can prevent your furnace from powering up.

Check the thermostat settings and replace the batteries if needed.

Inspect the circuit breaker to see if it’s been tripped, and reset it if necessary.

If these solutions don’t work, your furnace may require a more in-depth inspection, such as checking the igniter or gas supply.

2. Furnace Blows Cold Air

It can be frustrating when you’re expecting warmth, only to have your furnace blow cold air. This is often a sign that there’s an issue with the furnace’s ignition or heat exchanger.

Ensure the gas valve is open and there is no interruption in the gas supply.

Clean or replace the air filter to promote proper airflow. A clogged filter can cause issues with heating.

If the furnace is still blowing cold air, the ignitor or pilot light might need attention. You can try resetting it, but if the problem persists, a technician may need to inspect it further.

3. Noisy Furnace

Unusual noises like rattling, popping, or squealing can be a sign that your furnace is struggling. The source of the noise could be anything from a dirty blower to loose parts.

Check the blower fan and make sure it’s free of debris.

Tighten any loose screws or bolts that might be causing rattling sounds.

If the noise is coming from the burner, it could be a buildup of dirt or soot that needs cleaning.

4. Furnace Blows Weak Air

If your furnace is running but not blowing enough air, it could be due to a clogged air filter, an issue with the blower motor, or problems in the ductwork.

Replace the air filter if it’s clogged. Dirty filters restrict airflow and force the furnace to work harder.

Check for any obstructions or leaks in the ductwork. Even small leaks can cause a significant loss of heated air.

If the blower motor is malfunctioning, it may need to be repaired or replaced by a professional.

5. Frequent Cycling (Turning On and Off)

If your furnace keeps turning on and off rapidly, this is called short cycling and can be caused by overheating, a malfunctioning thermostat, or improper airflow.

Make sure the air filter is clean and there are no blockages in the vents.

Check the thermostat for any miscalibration or errors.

If these steps don’t resolve the issue, the furnace’s limit switch might be faulty and should be inspected by a technician.

Pro Tips for Furnace Maintenance

Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the filters, checking the thermostat, and scheduling professional inspections, can prevent many furnace problems before they arise.

Keep your furnace running smoothly, and your home will stay warm all winter long.

Remember, safety is key — when in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out to an experienced technician for help.

When to Call a Professional

While many furnace repairs can be tackled by homeowners, some issues are best left to the experts. If you encounter any of the problems mentioned above, it’s time to contact a certified technician.

At At Alex & Brothers | Appliance Repair, we’re here to provide fast and reliable furnace repair services. Whether it's an ignition problem, a malfunctioning thermostat, or inconsistent heating, our experienced technicians can restore your furnace to peak performance. Contact us today for hassle-free repairs and keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long!