Is your furnace failing to kick on and keep your home warm during these cold winter months? If so, what could be causing this issue? A faulty furnace can not only make your home uncomfortable but also pose potential safety hazards.
If your furnace is having problems, don’t hesitate to contact Spokane furnace repair experts. Professional HVAC technicians can diagnose and fix any issues to ensure your living space stays warm all winter.
Common causes of furnace failure
Dirty air filters
One of the most common causes of furnace failure is dirty air filters. Over time, these filters accumulate dust and debris, restricting airflow. This reduces your furnace’s efficiency and may lead to a complete shutdown.
Changing or cleaning your air filters regularly is essential to avoid this issue. Most professionals recommend doing this every 1-3 months, depending on factors such as the number of pets in the household and the level of indoor air pollution.
Tripped circuit breaker
A tripped circuit breaker is another frequent reason a furnace may fail to start. If your furnace isn’t working, check your circuit breaker panel to see if any switches have been flipped off. If so, flip them back on and try restarting your furnace.
It’s also possible that your furnace has an electrical issue, such as a faulty motor or capacitor. In such situations, contacting a professional is crucial to maintaining your heating system’s safety and proper operation.
Pilot light failure
The pilot light ignites the burners and produces heat for gas furnaces. If the pilot light goes out, your furnace won’t be able to fire up. This could be due to various reasons, such as a dirty or faulty sensor, a clogged burner orifice, or a problem with the gas supply.
If you’re comfortable doing so, you can relight the pilot light by following the manufacturer’s instructions. However, if the issue persists, it’s best to contact a professional to diagnose and fix it.
Other potential causes
Thermostat malfunction
Sometimes, the issue may be with something other than your furnace but with the thermostat that controls it. A malfunctioning thermostat can stop your furnace from turning on or keeping your home at a desired temperature.
If you suspect your thermostat is the culprit, try replacing the batteries and ensuring it’s set to “heat” mode. If that doesn’t solve the issue, it may be time for a professional replacement or repair.
Faulty igniter or flame sensor
If you have an older furnace model, it may have an igniter or flame sensor that can wear out over time. This will prevent your furnace from firing up and producing heat.
Replacing these parts can be tricky, so it’s best to leave it to the experts. They will have the necessary tools and expertise to get your furnace back up and running quickly.
Lack of maintenance
Like any other appliance, furnaces require regular maintenance to keep them functioning correctly. If you last had your furnace serviced a while ago, there could be underlying issues causing it to fail.
Experts recommend having your furnace professionally inspected and serviced at least once a year to catch any potential problems before they become significant issues. This can also help prolong the lifespan of your furnace and save you money in the long run.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a furnace that won’t fire up is frustrating and potentially dangerous. Remember, it’s always best to leave any repairs or replacements to experienced professionals to ensure the safety and efficiency of your heating system.
