by Many homeowners know very little about furnace repairs and maintenance requirements. Some usually feel vulnerable when their furnace malfunctions because they have no idea what could be wrong or what to do. Although HVAC contractors typically respond quickly, homeowners must learn a few essential repairs to keep their furnaces in good shape.
Before trying to fix a faulty furnace, homeowners should understand the problem and observe safety precautions to avoid damaging the system or getting injured. Without this knowledge and skills, it would be best to let a competent professional fix the furnace. Here are essential furnace repair tips every homeowner should understand.
Inspections and Cleaning
These repair and maintenance tasks may seem insignificant. But cleaning helps prevent rust, dirt, and weird smells from the furnace. Besides, homeowners can easily identify faulty parts or other issues when cleaning the furnace. So, homeowners should examine various components when cleaning and identify signs such as cracks, mold infestation, rust, and worn-out parts.
If a homeowner cannot fix the problem, they should request a furnace repair service. Timely repairs usually cost less and prevent severe issues that could make the furnace break down or increase the repair expenses. A homeowner can clean some parts of the furnace, but delicate components such as the blower and flue might need a skilled technician.
Cleaning or Replacing Air Filters
Every furnace has air filters to track dust and small particles that could lower the indoor air quality. If the filters are clogged, they block air or start leaking dust, which is spread to various rooms. So, property owners or HVAC contractors should inspect the filters to ensure they are clean.
In addition, clogged filters reduce the efficiency of the furnace and increase energy consumption. Experts recommend inspecting the filters at least once every month during the cold season. If a homeowner cannot inspect or replace a clogged filter, a repair contractor can do it for them at an affordable price.
Clean the Flame Sensor
Before turning on the furnace, homeowners should clean the flame sensor. A sensor covered with carbon buildup is a safety hazard and could lead to fire accidents. But why should homeowners clean the sensor before turning on a gas furnace? The sensor becomes very hot when the heating system is working.
So, cleaning it at that point could cause burn injuries. If inspecting and cleaning the flame sensor seems tough, an HVAC contractor can fix it during regular repairs or maintenance visits.
Replacing Frayed Belts
Furnace belts transmit the power from the motor to other parts of the system. If the belts slide out or break, the furnace will malfunction or stop working. So homeowners should not wait until the belts break or stop functioning; they should hire a contractor to replace the frayed belts.
Replacing a worn-out furnace belt eliminates strange noises and enhances efficiency. However, postponing belt replacement could lead to inconveniences, high energy costs, and damage to other components.
Lighting the Pilot Light
The small flame in gas furnaces is called pilot light, and it helps ignite the main gas burners when the thermostat indicates the furnace should warm the house. If the pilot lightgoes out, homeowners should relight it. However, they should turn off the gas and electricity and wait at least five minutes. They should also follow the manufacturer’s instructions when relighting it.
These basic furnace repairs can help a homeowner prevent and fix minor issues. However, if the furnace develops a significant problem, homeowners should work with seasoned HVAC contractors. These contractors have the right tools and skills to fix most furnace issues.
