At IRBIS, we get a lot of questions about furnace repair. Customers in San Jose and throughout Northern California rely on our experienced technicians to keep their heaters running. We can provide any type of HVAC restoration so you can always count on IRBIS for furnace repair services when you need them. And to help you understand when a furnace may require repairs, we’ve compiled the following questions and answers:
What Are the Most Common Furnace Problems?
The most common issues with furnaces we see include:
- Dust and debris in the ductwork.
- A filter is blocked with dirt, dust, and allergens.
- The pilot light is out (or yellow instead of blue).
- The electrical ignition doesn’t work.
- Air is not blowing through the vents.
- The air temperature does not match the thermostat settings.
- The furnace keeps tripping the circuit breaker.
- Squealing, thumping, clunking, and other unusual noises.
- A gas-like odor or moldy smell.
What Should I Do If My Furnace Stops Working?
If your furnace isn’t working, check the air filter to see if it’s clogged. This can block airflow, so clean it if necessary. If your furnace has a pilot light, check whether it’s lit and follow the manufacturer’s steps to safely light it again. An electronic ignition has an ignitor that will be red hot when the thermostat clicks on. Follow the user manual to find the ignitor and flame sensor. If these components are dirty, the ignition sequence won’t proceed until they are cleaned.
To clean the sensor, use medium-grain sandpaper to rub off any grime. Re-install the sensor, close the front panel, and turn on the gas and power. Then you can turn up the thermostat to see if the furnace starts running. If it does not, call a heating repair contractor.
How Many Years Will My Furnace Last?
On average, a furnace lasts 15 to 20 years. But no furnace model or brand has an expiration date. A few factors can affect how long your furnace lasts. Your local climate, how often the unit runs, and your temperature preferences can impact a furnace’s lifespan. Reputable brands tend to last longer. To improve longevity and put off HVAC restoration, ensure it is professionally installed, regularly maintained, and inspected by a qualified technician. Also, replace the air filter as recommended.
Which Furnace Parts Are Most Likely to Fail?
When an individual part fails, it can often be repaired or replaced without requiring a new furnace. Licensed contractors know how to properly install new components. A furnace can stop working if any of the following parts fail:
- Blower Motor: The blower motor forces air through your HVAC system. Its assembly consists of various moving parts and electrical components. Dirt, friction, and other issues can cause wear and tear, but a technician can easily replace the blower motor assembly.
- Inducer Motor: An inducer fan directs air through the combustion chamber, heat exchanger, and toward the exhaust. Its bearings are prone to a variety of problems. Foreign objects and animals can disrupt the motor, so watch out for high-pitched squeals from your furnace.
- Gas Valve: Controlling the flow of gas to the burners, this valve closes if the flames reach farther than they’re supposed to. The valve also includes a gas regulator that reduces gas pressure and a gas solenoid that opens and closes gas flow in response to the thermostat. Both of these can also fail.
- Gas Ignitor: The gas ignitor is a common point of failure for a gas furnace. It lights the gas burners and its metal expands and contracts when heated and cooled. This can lead to stress fractures that cause the component to stop working. Fortunately, it’s simple and inexpensive to replace.
- Circuit Board: The circuit board is the nerve center of the furnace. This computer tells it what to do, but dirt and dust can cause it to overheat. If the circuit burns out, then your furnace won’t work. A water leak can damage the circuit board as well. Replacing it is an expensive repair.
- Evaporator Coil: The evaporator coil is an important part of your HVAC system. It can be affected by a dirty filter or develop a leak. A leaky or broken coil must be replaced, which you’ll need a professional for.
Contact IRBIS for Furnace Repair
IRBIS is one of the most trusted residential and commercial HVAC service companies near you in Silicon Valley and Northern California. A Carrier Authorized Dealer, we include a warranty when installing leading-brand equipment and are here to answer any other questions you might have. Our experienced team is committed to customer satisfaction and excellent quality of service. To schedule furnace repair, get in touch with us online or call 669-266-5464.