Your furnace is the heart of your home’s heating system, working throughout the day and night to keep you warm during the cold months. But like any mechanical system, it can develop problems over time. Catching these issues early can prevent bigger, more expensive repairs or a complete breakdown even later on. Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning will share some of the most common furnace failures every homeowner should watch for.

Ignition or Pilot Light Problems

If your furnace will not start or blows only cold air, the problem might be with the ignition system or pilot light. This could be due to dirty sensors, worn igniters, or a faulty thermocouple. Without a proper ignition source, your furnace can’t heat your home.

Blower Motor Failure

The blower motor pushes heated air through your ducts and into your rooms. You may begin to notice weak airflow, strange noises, or the blower not turning on at all. Some of the common cause of a blower motor failure is due to worn bearings, electrical issues, or overheating due to lack of maintenance.

Dirty or Clogged Filters

While not a mechanical failure, a clogged filters can cause multiple issues such as restricted airflow, overheating, or even short cycling which is when furnace turns on and off frequently. It is very important to change your filters every 1 to 3 months is one of the easiest ways to prevent problems.

Cracked Heat Exchanger

The heat exchanger transfers heat from the combustion process to your home’s air. Cracks in the heat exchanger can leak carbon monoxide a dangerous, odorless gas into your home. You will want to keep an eye out for soot around the furnace, unusual smells, or carbon monoxide detector alarms.

Thermostat Malfunctions

If your furnace is not responding properly to temperature settings, your thermostat could be the culprit. Check for dead batteries, faulty wiring, or even a possible calibration problems. Sometimes a battery replacement or reset is all that is needed.

Electrical Component Failures

Modern furnaces rely on sensors, relays, and circuit boards. Electrical problems can lead to furnace not turning on, short cycling or blower fan issues. Regular inspections help catch these early.

Condensate Line Blockages

High-efficiency furnaces produce condensation that drains away through a pipe. Blockages are often due to dirt, algae, or ice can block the line. This will cause the furnace shuts down to prevent water damage.

Worn or Slipping Belts

Some furnaces use belts to drive the blower. You may hear a squealing or screeching noises during operation. A simple replacement can prevent a sudden failure.

Preventing Furnace Failures

Most furnace breakdowns can be avoided with regular annual tune-ups and routine maintenance. This includes:
• Cleaning and inspecting components
• Lubricating moving parts
• Checking safety controls
• Replacing worn parts before they fail

Furnace & Boiler Maintenance, Replacement, Emergency Repairs & More in Springfield, Granby, Holyoke, South Hadley, Monson, Chicopee & Agawam, Massachusetts

Do not wait for your furnace to fail on the coldest night of the year. Contact Ambient Heating & Air Conditioning. We offer professional inspections, repairs, and replacements to keep your heating system running efficiently and safely.