With chilly temperatures in the Metro East area of Illinois, homeowners are still relying on their furnaces to keep their homes warm and comfortable. However, like any other mechanical system, furnaces are prone to issues, especially as they age or if they haven’t been properly maintained. Understanding the most common furnace problems can help homeowners address issues before they escalate, ensuring reliable heating throughout the colder months. In this blog, we’ll discuss five of the most frequent problems encountered in residential furnaces, how they affect your home, and how the team at C&K Heating & Cooling can help resolve them.
Dirty or Clogged Air Filters
One of the most common and easily preventable furnace problems is dirty or clogged air filters. The air filter in your furnace plays a critical role in ensuring proper airflow throughout the system by trapping dust, dirt, and other airborne particles. Over time, these filters become clogged, restricting airflow and forcing the furnace to work harder to push warm air through the ducts.
When airflow is restricted, your furnace’s efficiency drops, leading to higher energy bills and uneven heating in your home. Rooms farthest from the furnace may feel significantly colder, while the furnace itself may overheat, potentially causing more severe mechanical issues. To prevent this, it’s essential to regularly check and replace air filters, especially during peak heating seasons. Many HVAC professionals recommend changing the filter every one to three months, depending on usage and the type of filter. If you’re unsure about the type of filter your furnace uses or how to replace it, C&K Heating & Cooling, Inc. can provide guidance and even handle the replacement for you.
Ignition System Problems
The ignition system is a crucial component of your furnace, responsible for lighting the burners that generate heat. Modern furnaces typically use one of two types of ignition systems: a hot surface ignitor or an intermittent pilot. Both systems are designed to be more energy efficient than older standing pilot systems, but they can develop issues over time. Hot surface ignitors, which glow red-hot to ignite the gas, may crack or break, rendering them useless.
Similarly, intermittent pilot systems, which rely on an electric spark to ignite the gas, may fail due to electrical problems or faulty sensors. When the ignition system fails, the furnace won’t produce heat, leaving your home cold. A malfunctioning ignition system requires professional attention, as trying to fix it without the necessary expertise can be dangerous. C&K Heating & Cooling, Inc. has a team of experienced technicians who can diagnose the problem, replace faulty components, and restore heat to your home safely. Count on us for quality furnace maintenance.
Malfunctioning Thermostat
Your thermostat serves as the control center for your heating system, communicating with the furnace to maintain the desired temperature in your home. However, when the thermostat malfunctions, it can cause a range of issues, including inconsistent heating, short cycling (where the furnace turns on and off too frequently), or the furnace not turning on at all. Thermostat problems can stem from a variety of sources.
For older, non-programmable thermostats, wiring issues or simple wear and tear may be to blame. Programmable or smart thermostats may experience software glitches or battery failures. In either case, the result is poor temperature control and decreased comfort. Fortunately, a malfunctioning thermostat is often a simple fix. C&K Heating & Cooling, Inc. can troubleshoot your thermostat to determine if the issue lies with the device itself or if the malfunction exists as a symptom of a larger problem within your furnace. If necessary, we can recommend and install a more reliable, energy-efficient thermostat to ensure consistent heating in your home.
Blower Motor Failure
The blower motor is responsible for circulating warm air from your furnace throughout your home. When the blower motor fails or operates inefficiently, it can significantly reduce the furnace’s ability to heat your space. Common symptoms of blower motor problems include weak airflow from vents, loud noises coming from the furnace, or the furnace running constantly without effectively heating the home. Worn-out bearings, a lack of lubrication, or dirt buildup often cause blower motor failure.
In some cases, electrical issues, such as a faulty capacitor or relay switch, may also cause the motor to fail. If left unchecked, blower motor problems can lead to more severe furnace damage, including overheating and system failure. Contact C&K Heating & Cooling, and a professional HVAC technician will inspect the blower motor, clean or replace worn components, and ensure the motor is properly lubricated. Regular maintenance can help prevent blower motor issues, ensuring that your furnace operates efficiently throughout the heating season.
Cracked Heat Exchanger
The heat exchanger is one of the most critical parts of your furnace, responsible for transferring heat from the combustion process to the air that’s circulated through your home. Over time, the heat exchanger can develop cracks due to the metal expanding and contracting with repeated heating and cooling cycles. A cracked heat exchanger is a serious issue, as it can allow dangerous gases, such as carbon monoxide, to leak into your home. Symptoms of a cracked heat exchanger include strange smells (often described as a metallic or formaldehyde odor), visible corrosion on the furnace, and the presence of soot around the furnace.
In some cases, carbon monoxide detectors may also alert you to elevated gas levels. If you suspect a cracked heat exchanger, it’s crucial to contact a professional immediately. C&K Heating & Cooling, Inc. can inspect your furnace and replace the heat exchanger if necessary. We also offer regular furnace inspections, which can catch heat exchanger problems early before they become a serious health hazard.
Rely On C&K Heating & Cooling, Inc. to Maintain Your Furnace
Maintaining your furnace is essential to ensuring reliable, energy-efficient heating throughout the winter months. By addressing common furnace problems like dirty air filters, ignition system failures, thermostat malfunctions, blower motor issues, and cracked heat exchangers, you can extend the lifespan of your heating system and enjoy a more comfortable home. When furnace problems arise, it’s best to leave the repairs to the professionals.
At C&K Heating & Cooling, Inc., we have years of experience helping homeowners in the Metro East area of Illinois with all their furnace repair and maintenance needs. Whether it’s a routine inspection or an emergency repair, our team is ready to provide prompt, reliable service to keep your home warm and safe. Call us today at 618.537.8888 to schedule your furnace service and experience the difference that professional care can make!
