Many homes across Delaware and the US experience furnace trouble as we approach the winter months, requiring immediate attention to avoid cold and uncomfortable nights.
Furnace repair can seem daunting, but it's often simpler than you might think. With know-how and the right tools, you can fix many common furnace problems yourself. This can save you time and money on costly HVAC service calls.
Your heating and cooling system is key to a cozy home which is why learning basic furnace repair skills can ensure your family’s comfort. This guide will introduce you to tips and tricks needed to get your furnace running smoothly again.
Understanding Your Furnace
Furnaces have several key components that work together to heat your home. Therefore, you should become familiar with each and common issues that can affect them.
Components and Functions
A typical furnace consists of a burner, a heat exchanger, a blower fan, a flue pipe, and a thermostat.
- The burner creates heat by quickly burning fuel.
- The heat exchanger transfers this heat to the air.
- The blower fan pushes warm air through the ducts throughout the home.
- The flue pipe removes exhaust gases from your home.
- The thermostat controls the furnace so you can turn it on and off.
Your furnace will also have air filters that catch dust and debris before air enters the main heating chamber. You should always clean filters to help your system run more effectively.
Some furnaces use gas while others run on oil or electricity, some people also use a furnace as a backup in winter, relying on eco-friendly systems such as geothermal heat pumps for the rest of the year.
Common Issues and Diagnostics
If your furnace isn't working as it should, there are a few simple checks you can make, like ensuring the thermostat is set correctly and looking at your air filter - a clogged one can cause problems.
If the furnace is not producing heat there could be a faulty ignition system or a blocked gas line. Meanwhile, short cycling occurs when the furnace turns on and off too quickly which could be caused by a dirty flame sensor.
Strange noises could hint that there are loose parts in the furnace or a failing motor. Odd smells when you first turn on your furnace are normal. But if they persist, it could mean your furnace has a problem.
Maintenance and Efficiency
Keeping your furnace in top shape saves you money and prevents breakdowns and regular maintenance and smart energy use are key to a well-running system.
Regular Maintenance Services
You should schedule yearly furnace check-ups with a professional heating engineer who will clean components, check for deterioration, and fix small issues before they escalate. This helps your furnace last longer and work at full efficiency. They will also check your thermostat, as a faulty one can make your furnace run irregularly.
Remember to clean or replace your air filters every 1-3 months as dirty filters can cause your furnace to be overworked, wasting energy. Poorly maintained air filters can also let dust into your home, impacting air quality. Clean ducts are also essential to a healthy heating system, helping your furnace run smoothly and keep the air clean.
Energy Saving Tips
A simple energy-saving measure is to set your thermostat lower in winter and higher in summer, as each degree can save you money on energy bills. Using a programmable thermostat means temperatures can be adjusted automatically when you’re asleep, at work, or on vacation.
Add or improve insulation in your attic and walls as good insulation means your furnace has to work less to maintain an optimal temperature. Seal air leaks around windows and doors too to retain warm air in winter and cool air in summer. Your maintenance routine should also include cleaning your vents and radiators to remove dust and dirt.
Indoor Air Quality and Health
Furnaces play a big role in how clean the air is inside your home, keeping you and your family healthy.
Impact of Furnaces on Indoor Air Quality
A faulty furnace can severely impact indoor air quality, sending dust, pollen, and other pollutants into the air. This can cause health issues like breathing problems, headaches, and allergies.
Old or broken furnaces might also leak carbon monoxide which has no smell but can be very dangerous. To protect your family, it's important to have working carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Fortunately, regular furnace check-ups help detect potentially dangerous issues early.
Improving Home Air Quality
You can take steps to improve air quality in your home by changing your furnace filter monthly and only using high-quality filters that catch tiny particles. For peace of mind, have your furnace cleaned and checked by a professional each year.
An air purifier is a cheap investment that can remove additional pollutants, while simply opening windows when the weather allows can also have a big impact. To further improve air quality, don't smoke inside, use natural cleaning products, and use a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels between 30-50%.
Professional Furnace Services
Skilled HVAC contractors handle installation, replacement, and repairs to keep your heating system running smoothly.
Hiring a Qualified HVAC Contractor
When researching licensed and insured HVAC contractors in Delaware, check their credentials and ask about their experience with furnace systems. You can also ask about their training and certifications as a qualified technician must stay up-to-date on the latest heating technologies.
Try to get multiple quotes before choosing a contractor to compare prices, but also consider the quality of service offered. Sometimes paying a little extra means you receive long-term value.
Always ask about warranties on parts and labor to ensure you are getting a quality service.
The Value of Customer Testimonials
The best way to identify quality service is to read reviews from previous customers who can give insight into a contractor's reliability and working methods. Look for feedback on punctuality, professionalism, and problem-solving skills as these traits are crucial to avoid issues.
Pay attention to how contractors handle complaints as reputable companies will strive to resolve issues quickly. You can even ask for references from recent customers and by speaking to them directly you can obtain a clearer overview of the company.
Another important step is to check online ratings on trusted, third-party review sites to analyze whether there is a pattern of positive feedback or a history of complaints.
Contact us today to discuss your furnace repair options or to schedule maintenance.
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