Furnace breakdowns or emergency furnace replacements are something we’d all like to avoid! Learn to identify common furnace problems to avoid major furnace repairs and replacements—especially in the dead of winter. Our techs share the most common furnace problems to look out for and solutions to keep your furnace in great working condition throughout the cold months in Oakland County, Michigan.
Clogged Filters
Clogged filters, a common furnace problem, make your furnace work harder than necessary, shortening its life and (in severe cases) can even cause your unit to stop working completely. Dirty filters are an easy fix, but one that’s often forgotten until it causes a problem. We recommend changing your filters every 90–120 days, but make sure to check your furnace’s user guide for the manufacturer’s suggestions.
Is it time for a new furnace installation? No. If you replace your furnace’s filters regularly, a new furnace installation isn’t necessary to solve this problem. In unique and severe cases, a neglected clogged filter could cause furnace failure. If you’re experiencing signs of a broken furnace, call the experts at HVAC Comfort for emergency furnace repair service.
Pilot Light Issues
Mechanical issues with the pilot light and ignition control portion of your furnace are common furnace problems. In addition to the pilot light simply not starting, another common problem is when a faulty pilot light causes intermittent heat or no heat at all.
Is it time for a new furnace installation? No. If your pilot light won’t stay lit, you’ll likely need a professional to replace the valve.
Furnace Wear & Tear
Wear and tear on a furnace is another common problem. Some parts of your furnace can be replaced, extending the life of your furnace by years, while other failing parts signal the end of its life. As a furnace begins to fail, it will often work and blow warm air, but the air may not flow as well or as efficiently as it did in the past. Homeowners may not even realize there’s a problem during the furnace’s decline until it just quits or blows cold air.
Furnaces work hard. They turn on and off a lot during cold weather. They get hot then cold. They rest for months and then run hours at a time for months. Proper furnace maintenance and the ability to recognize common furnace problems can make it last longer.
Is it time for a new furnace installation? It depends. These situations typically call for a new furnace installation:
- Your furnace is older than 15 years. The typical lifespan of any furnace is around 15 years, and as it ages, the parts begin wearing out no matter how many times you replace them.
- Your house isn’t warm enough. As the temperatures drop and the icy winds blow, aging furnaces simply can’t keep up with the frigid temperatures outside. This is a clear sign that your furnace is aging and becoming less efficient.
- You have system inefficiency and higher utility bills. As your furnace wears out, it has to work harder to maintain the heat throughout your home. This directly increases your utility bills, and it will only get worse as your unit continues to age.
- Your furnace isn’t cycling properly. If your furnace is shutting off too soon or running longer than it takes to heat your home, this is a clear sign that your furnace isn’t working appropriately and needs to be replaced or repaired immediately.
Not Performing General Maintenance
Keeping your furnace maintained will save you time and money in the long run, and your home will be cozy and comfortable all winter long. Homeowners often skip maintenance because they don’t want to spend money on an appliance that’s working. In reality, paying $50 or $100 each fall can help you avoid spending hundreds or thousands of dollars in common furnace problems and repairs. Give your furnace some love with annual furnace maintenance inspections, and it will be more reliable and last longer.
Is it Time for a New Furnace Installation?
No one wants to have to think about a new furnace installation, and the good news is that there are many things you can do yourself to ensure that your furnace is running smoothly from year to year. By following the tips we shared, you can prolong the life of your furnace. But, furnaces do wear out eventually. They aren’t made to last forever, and you may be wondering, is it time for a new furnace installation? It depends. These problems typically call for a new furnace installation:
- Your furnace is older than 15 years.
- Your house isn’t warm enough.
- You have system inefficiency and higher utility bills.
- Your furnace isn’t cycling properly.
HVAC Comfort
When the snow starts piling up and the temperatures are plummeting, the last thing you want to deal with is a furnace that’s acting up. We’re passionate about keeping your family safe and your home cozy during the cold Michigan winter weather by fixing common furnace problems before they become costly issues. Our customers are our neighbors, and we’ll do whatever it takes to ensure your HVAC needs are met.
For expert furnace inspection, furnace repair, and furnace installation near Oakland and Livingston County, Michigan, HVAC Comfort is the first choice. We’re committed to solving your AC and furnace issues with a foundation of integrity, quality, and efficiency.
Originally Published: December 10, 2021
Written By: HVAC Comfort Team