When your furnace stops working in the middle of winter, it can leave your home freezing cold. When it comes to furnace breakdowns, there can be a number of different culprits. Depending on the source of your furnace’s failure, you may require a simple fix or the services of an HVAC technician. Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning will share some of the common causes and which course of action is needed to restore your home’s heating system.
Clogged or Blocked Air Vent
A clogged or blocked air vent can cause serious strain on your furnace and eventually lead to overheating, which will cause the furnace to shut down. Depending on what is causing the blockage or clog, you may be able to clear the obstruction yourself. Change out the air filter and inspect the inside of your air ducts. Additionally, make sure that all of the vents are fully open. If you believe there is a bigger problem occurring within your air ducts, contact a professional HVAC technician.
Age of the Furnace
Once your furnace is over 15 years old, it is common for it to begin developing significant problems. As the furnace ages, it wears down and works 2 to 3 times harder than normal. The stress of age often leads to major problems and even complete breakdowns. As a furnace reaches the end of its life, it is recommended to seek a furnace replacement or invest in frequent and costly repairs.
Damaged Blower Wheel
The blower plays a big role in your home’s heating system. The blower wheel, powered by a motor, ensures the heat produced by the furnace is properly distributed evenly throughout the entire house. When the blower wheel becomes damaged or dirty, it cannot run properly. If the wheel can’t circulate the warm air, the home will remain cold. Even though the furnace is running, the heating may appear to have broken down since the blower wheel is not working properly. An HVAC technician can inspect, repair, or replace your blower wheel.
Faulty Wiring
A furnace’s wiring system connects several electrical devices that control the furnace’s internal systems. All furnaces contain a pressure switch that turns the unit on and off. If this pressure switch constantly trips, it often indicates issues with the furnace’s wiring. Faulty wiring can lead to overheating and breakdowns. Wiring repairs or replacements will need to be done by an HVAC technician.
Heat Exchanger Coil Problems
The heat exchanger coils are found in the furnace’s blower compartment and are responsible for distributing the heat. The coils can burn out if they are not properly insulated or if they are exposed to too much air. Sometimes, the heat exchanger coil needs to be replaced to restore heating to your home.
Central Heating Furnace & Boiler Maintenance, Repairs, Replacement, Emergency Repairs & More in Springfield, Granby, Holyoke, South Hadley, Monson, Chicopee & Agawam, Massachusetts
When your furnace breaks down and is no longer heating your home, it is time to contact an HVAC technician. With proper maintenance and regular tune-ups, you can extend the life of your furnace and ensure your home stays warm all winter. For HVAC services, contact Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning and schedule our services today.
