Central air systems are designed to keep our homes comfortable in extreme weather. Unfortunately, these systems sometimes malfunction or display unusual behavior. If you are having problems heating your home this winter, it is important to consult an expert that specializes in heating and air conditioning in Douglasville to help diagnose and fix the problem. Read on to learn about some of the most common causes of furnace problems. No Heat If you turn on your furnace and get no response from the system, it is important to try and isolate the problem before calling a repairman. The following are some of the most common causes of furnace failure: - Thermostat: One of the most common causes of furnace failure is the thermostat. Make sure your thermostat is switched to “heat,” the desired temperature is higher than the current room temperature, and the fan is set to “auto.” If you have a programmable thermostat, it may be necessary to override the system to determine if the thermostat is causing the problem.
- Circuit breaker: A tripped or blown circuit breaker can prevent your furnace from turning on.
- Faulty pilot light: The pilot light of the furnace can go out due to a dirty gas tube, a faulty thermocouple, or even a draft. If you suspect a problem with your pilot light, it is important to consult a professional to diagnose and repair the issue.
- Natural gas flow: The inhibition of natural gas to the furnace can be caused by a gas pressure regulator malfunction or a valve that has been closed off. If you suspect either issue, it is best to consult a trained professional to fix the problem.
Not Enough Heat Insufficient heat is one of the most common furnace problems during the wintertime. The following are some of the most common causes of insufficient heat: - Dirty air filters: Filters that are clogged with dust and debris will inhibit the flow of air over the heat exchange and make heating your home more difficult. Be sure to change your air filter every 1 to 3 months.
- Leaky ducts: Broken seals, cracks, or even poor installation of your ductwork can allow warm air to escape, making it difficult to heat your home. If you suspect a ductwork problem, it is important to consult a professional to have your ducts inspected, sealed, or insulated.
- Incorrect size: If your furnace doesn’t produce enough heat to properly warm your home, it may be the wrong size. Consult a professional to inspect your system.
High Energy Bills High energy bills can be a sign that your furnace isn’t working as efficiently as it should. The following are some of the most common causes of rising energy bills: - Lack of maintenance: This is the most common cause of furnace problems. When it comes to efficiency, a well-maintained furnace will always produce better results than its dirty counterpart. Furnaces should be professionally cleaned and maintained every year to ensure maximum efficiency and performance. Although some homeowners may be tempted to skip this recommendation in order to save money, it is important to remember that an efficient furnace will actually save you money on your energy bills.
- Old furnace: Today’s furnaces operate much more efficiently than older units. If your furnace is more than 15 years old, it may be time to consider purchasing a new unit. The energy bill savings will actually outweigh the cost of the upgrade in the long run.
If you are concerned about potential problems with your furnace, it is important to consult a professional that specializes in heating and air conditioning in Douglasville to evaluate your system.
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