One of the most common furnace problems is a malfunctioning thermostat. A sure sign your thermostat isn't working properly is if your fan is constantly running. This will cause your thermostat battery to run, and cause your furnace to work inefficiently.
If you put your hand to your home's heating registers and feel cold air blowing out instead of warm air, this is one of the signs your furnace is going out. Oftentimes, cold air coming from vents means that your furnace's blower fan isn't functioning correctly.
If you notice your system running louder than normal or develops rattles, buzzes or hums, it's time to replace due to cracks, leaks or other structural issues. Going back to the last point, if you've noticed signs of rust or cracks developing in or around your furnace, it's time to replace.
The Average Furnace Lifespan
A well-maintained furnace can last at least 15 to 20 years, but completing annual maintenance and being diligent with repairs can extend its life even longer.
Strange Noises
Many healthy furnaces will maintain a consistent whirring sound, which is handy in letting you know that it's in good working order. If you begin to hear strange noises—banging, rattling, irregular hums, groans, rattles, etc. —then that could mean that there's something wrong with the furnace.
A furnace inspection costs an average of $80 to $100. Your cost may increase if more furnace repairs are needed, or based on the specifics of your HVAC system. If detrimental issues are uncovered, you'll be quoted for the repair or potential replacement of your HVAC equipment.
You should expect to spend between $3,800 and $12,00 on a new furnace, including both the unit and installation costs. Factors influencing the price include the type of furnace (gas, electric, or oil), the unit's efficiency rating, and the complexity of the installation.
You should be concerned if your furnace makes strange noises, blows cold air, cycles on and off frequently, or significantly increases your heating bills. Also, if it's over 15 years old and requires frequent repairs, it may be time to replace it.
A bad thermostat can be detected when your AC or furnace is not turning on, your HVAC systems are not turning off, the thermostat not responding, your HVAC system is short-cycling, the room temperature not matching the temperature displayed on the thermostat, and the programmed setting resetting themselves.
If the flame sensor fails, your furnace may not be able to start or may shut down shortly after starting. Common causes of flame sensor failure include corrosion, dirt buildup, or a broken wire. The gas valve controls the flow of gas to the furnace. If the gas valve fails, your furnace won't be able to produce heat.
If your furnace's problems continue, contact an HVAC expert. Also, if you notice discoloration when you check the pilot light, get professional help. If there are cold spots in your home, even though hot air is coming out of the air vents, the issue could be different from your furnace not working.
A heat exchanger replacement is often one of the most costly repairs in a furnace, and the expense can sometimes rival that of installing a new furnace. Typical replacement costs vary widely but can easily reach several thousand dollars, especially if labor costs are factored in.
To test the furnace, temporarily set the thermostat five to ten degrees higher than you normally would to see if it comes on, then return the thermostat to its normal setting when the test is complete. Check the gas supply. Make sure your gas supply line is open.
This behavior could be caused by a problem with the heat anticipator in the thermostat, a problem with the blower motor, or a dirty furnace air filter. Start by replacing the air filter. If this doesn't solve the issue, you may need to adjust the thermostat heat anticipator or troubleshoot the blower motor.
Your base homeowners policy will cover many types of damage to your furnace. An extra endorsement known as Equipment Breakdown Coverage (EBC) will give you additional coverage for certain types of mechanical or electrical failure.
While most average homeowners can handle simple DIY furnace maintenance such as cleaning or replacing your furnace filter, calling a local, qualified HVAC system professional for regular furnace repair service and equipment checks can help ensure reliability and optimum efficiency, as well as prevent larger issues from ...
Your furnace may become dirty due to heavy use, requiring a cleaning mid-season, which you can likely do yourself – but if you're not comfortable, always call your technician for help.
Thumps and bumping noises, like an unbalanced washing machine, often indicate an unbalanced blower wheel or motor. This is a serious issue that requires immediate HVAC repair. The blower wheel and motor are major furnace parts and you don't want them bouncing around.
Symptoms of Heater Sickness
Here are a few common symptoms to keep an eye out for: Coughing and sneezing. Sinus infections. Allergy symptoms.