It may not be chilly enough to use our heating systems on a regular basis quite yet, but soon enough colder weather will be here. The best way to make sure your heater is ready for that colder weather is to schedule maintenance before it hits. Maintenance allows our technicians to thoroughly inspect, adjust, and clean your furnace.
All of this works to lessen the chance you’ll run into a sudden breakdown. Still though, even with maintenance, it is probable that at some point, you will need furnace repairs. Some are more serious than others (more on that below) but all should be managed with the same level of care if you expect your furnace to operate effectively and efficiently all winter long this year.
Malfunctioning Thermostat
Sometimes, your furnace problem may not be a furnace problem at all. Rather, it can be an outdated thermostat creating temperature problems or other inefficiencies with your heating system—such as signaling the system to turn on at irregular times or run for longer than necessary. If you suspect your thermostat is to blame, it might be time to consider an upgrade.
Clogged Air Filter
The fortunate thing about this problem is that it’s one you can resolve on your own! There’s a common belief that the furnace air filter is in place to protect your indoor air quality. It certainly doesn’t hurt your indoor air quality, but it’s actual purpose is to protect the inside components of your furnace from dirt, dust, and other debris.
That said, a clogged air filter will significantly restrict airflow, causing your furnace to struggle in order to operate. Depending on the type of filter you have and the level of contaminants in your home, you’ll want to change your air filter every 1-3 months.
Pilot Light Problem
Whether you have an automatic pilot light like in most modern furnaces or a manual one, it’s an integral part of your heating system. Without it, the fuel used by your furnace has no way to ignite—meaning you simply won’t have use of your heater. If you notice your furnace blowing cold air, check your pilot light to determine whether or not it’s been lit.
Broken Blower Motor
The blower motor inside your furnace is what blows the hot air through your ductwork, effectively warming your home. Without it, the temperature can’t be regulated and heated air can’t be circulated.
Often, these motors fail from being overworked or getting covered in too much grime and other debris. Investing in annual maintenance, as we mentioned above, prevents this from becoming a problem. But if you notice anything unusual about how your furnace is operating, it’s a good idea to give our pros a call.
“How Do I Know if I Need Furnace Repair?”
Signs aren’t always obvious, but a few of the most common indicators to look for include unusual noises (anything outside of the normal hum of the fans and fluctuation of the ductwork), lukewarm or cool air coming from your furnace, cold spots throughout the home, and higher electricity bills with no other explanation.
Call the friendly staff at Boehmer Heating & Cooling for exceptional customer service and furnace repair in Canonsburg, PA.