A malfunctioning furnace can be a stressful situation. No matter how you regularly maintain it, your heating system will eventually fail and it's inevitable. While repairs might temporarily solve the problem, a furnace that has reached its peak needs replacement. We at 1-800-Plumber +Air of Princeton can help you get your heating system replaced. Here are the common issues that will help you determine if you have to replace your furnace.
Malfunctioning thermostat: When your thermostat stops working properly, the fan will constantly run, causing the furnace to become inefficient. You can test if your thermostat is problematic if you set the fan on auto. If it's running constantly at all settings, it may mean your thermostat needs replacement.
Clogged filters: A clogged or dirty filter can prevent your furnace from functioning. If ignored, the problem can lead to limit switch damage. You can ensure peak performance by swapping out filters at least once a quarter.
Weak or flickering pilot light: The pilot light of your furnace is essential and once it starts to flicker or it becomes weak, your gas furnace might have excessive carbon monoxide. This problem is better left to experts because it requires changing your pilot light. Contact us so we can have it replaced as soon as possible.
Damaged heat exchanger: A cracked heat exchanger is a costly problem that shouldn't be taken for granted. Your heat exchanger enables the furnace to run safely by separating the warming flame from the air.
Frayed blower belt: The blower belt helps the fan of your furnace to run. With constant use, it can begin to break or fray. You will know when there is a problem with your blower belt because your furnace produces a high-pitched sound while the system is running. Belt replacement will increase the efficiency and improve the performance of your fan.
Overcycling: A furnace kicking on frequently is a sign of ovecycling. The problem might be caused by improper airflow or clogged filters. An overcycling furnace can take a toll on your power bill.
Failing limit switch: A limit switch is malfunctioning when your furnace is continually blowing. This problem requires a licensed technician.
Furnace not blowing air: There are many reasons your furnace isn't blowing air. It can be a clogged or dirty blower. If the light on your blower is flashing, it might also be causing the problem.
Worn out bearings: The ball bearings ensure the motor of your furnace works properly. Over time, these bearings will wear out and may need replacement. If there is a scraping sound coming from the furnace, turn the system off immediately and call a technician to assess the problem.
Rattling noise: A popping or pinging noise that comes from your furnace is due to some issues like loose panels. You need experts at 1-800-Plumber +Air of Princeton to identify the problem.
When should you replace your furnace?
The average lifespan of a furnace is between 15 years and 30 years depending on how well maintained your system is. However, as your furnace gets old, it becomes less efficient. For most homeowners, furnace replacement is more practical than repairing an old furnace. While gas furnaces have a shorter lifespan than electric furnaces, the former has lower operational cost.
If your furnace shows any of these signs, you might need to consider replacing them:
Temperature Fluctuations
When there is a sudden change in temperature, it is an indicator that your furnace is no longer working as it should be. Fluctuations can be due to a number of reasons but one thing is for sure, your furnace is becoming less efficient, losing its ability to distribute enough heat.
Furnace Noises
The root of the problem can be evaluated based on the noise that your furnace produces. For instance, if you hear a screeching noise, it means the blower motor of your furnace is damaged. A clicking sound indicates a problem with the igniter or flame sensor.
High Energy Bills
Your furnace will have difficulties distributing heat once it has reached its peak. When a furnace is working harder, there will also be a spike in your energy bills. Repair might fix the issue, but an aging furnace needs replacement to provide heat all throughout your home.
Yellow Furnace Flames
A new furnace produces a clean blue flame but when it starts to fail, the flame from the burners becomes yellow because of the carbon monoxide it produces. Yellow flames are also a sign of a gas leak due to improper combustion process. If you see yellow flames in your furnace, give 1-800-Plumber +Air of Princeton a call to schedule an appointment.
Do I have to replace my furnace? Can I do it myself?
While you can perform a few basic checks to deal with the problem, a heating system not behaving the way it should needs a troubleshooting expert to get your furnace up and running. A team of licensed technicians at 1-800-Plumber +Air of Princeton uses the right tools to fix the issue. You can potentially harm yourself when you choose a DIY furnace repair.
Call us at 1-800-Plumber +Air
Let us restore your comfort by handling furnace replacement. We at 1-800-Plumber +Air of Princeton will help you upgrade to a modern unit. Contact us and so we can discuss all the available options.
