6 Common Furnace Problems and Easy Solutions
Identifying and Solving Common HVAC Problems
1. Filter Maintenance
Often overlooked, a clogged filter can significantly restrict airflow, causing uneven temperature distribution in your home. This is especially true if you have pets or kids, as dirt and dander can accumulate quickly. Even if your filter appears clean, replacing it regularly can be crucial. Start here as it might be the heart of your problem.
2. Blower Wheel and Motor Inspection
If replacing the filter doesn’t resolve your issues, the next step is to check the blower wheel and motor. Dirt and debris can accumulate, adding unnecessary weight, reducing efficiency and causing premature motor failure. A thorough cleaning can restore operability and prevent those costly motor repairs. Many underestimate how a little dirt can affect airflow and motor performance, leading to premature wear and tear. If this is a concern cleaning the blower wheel may be best left to the A-Team as our skilled technicians can safely remove the blower and motor for a deep clean. Below is a video that we think would be helpful for this if you choose to do it.
3. Duct and Vent Inspection
Reduced airflow might also be due to blocked or closed vents. Ensure that all vents are open and unobstructed by furniture or rugs. Walk through your house to check each vent, ensuring they are open where needed. If airflow varies between vents, there could be an obstruction in the ductwork, such as toys or debris, which can often be identified with a hand mirror and flashlight.
4. Blower Motor Capacitor Check
The blower motor capacitor is a crucial component of your furnace’s operation, yet it is often overlooked during routine maintenance. This small but essential part helps start the blower motor and keeps it running efficiently. When a capacitor begins to fail, it can lead to a variety of issues, including reduced airflow, inconsistent heating, or even complete failure of the blower motor. Signs of a failing capacitor may include a humming sound coming from the motor, the blower not starting at all, or the motor running but not achieving optimal performance. Fortunately, checking and replacing a faulty capacitor is typically a straightforward and cost-effective fix for a trained technician. By addressing this issue promptly, you can restore your furnace’s efficiency and ensure consistent heating throughout your home. Regular checks of the blower motor capacitor can help prevent more significant problems down the line, saving you time and money on emergency repairs. If you choose to do this yourself here is a video we found helpful.
5. Air Conditioning Coil Cleaning
If airflow is still a concern, dirt might have accumulated on the air conditioning coil within the unit. This can cause the furnace to cycle on and off before reaching the desired temperature due to excess heat being trapped inside the furnace. Cleaning the coil would be another task best left to professionals as our team can handle it without suggesting unnecessary replacements.
6. Flame Sensor Cleaning
A dirty flame sensor can cause the furnace to turn off unexpectedly. Cleaning it with a piece of sand-cloth can often resolve this issue. Some homeowners might feel comfortable handling this, but if not, our A-Team Technicians are ready to assist without imposing high costs.
Thank you for reading our blog! At A-Team HVAC, we are committed to providing you with valuable insights and tips for maintaining your heating and cooling systems. If you have any questions or need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to our experienced team. Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities!