When encountering issues in a furnace, the source of the issues can typically be determined just by listening or taking note of its behavior. An accurate diagnosis will always require the help of a professional, but knowing what to find can help a homeowner detect an issue in the first place. In particular, the types of noises it makes and the performance issues can be very telling.
Noises
If a furnace is making any strange noises, it’s almost always required to call a Bronx furnace repair service. The only normal sounds a furnace should make is the light “whooshing” of air through the vents.
Banging
This is an indication that a component inside the furnace has become loose or broken. While it’s difficult to say exactly which parts may be involved, the sound alone is enough cause for concern. Constant banging can damage other components and lead to a more expensive repair cost.
Booming
This is common in older gas furnaces, but it’s also just as likely in malfunctioning furnaces that haven’t had regular maintenance. A booming noise occurs when there’s a delay in ignition. Essentially, the furnace cabin is filling with too much gas before it is ignited, creating a mini-explosion—which is just as dangerous as it sounds.
Screeching
Most likely, this is a sign that a belt is worn out or cracked. A broken belt isn’t as dangerous as banging or booming. However, a broken belt will prevent the furnace from operating until it’s fixed.
Performance Issues
Not only do performance issues prevent the furnace from operating properly, they are usually a major source of inefficiencies. The heating bill will typically be much higher than usual for as long as these issues persist without being repaired.
Lack of Airflow
Placing a hand up to the vent may show that there’s little to no air coming through the ducts. This means that, somewhere along the line, there’s something that’s blocking airflow. That can include a dirty air filter, broken blower motors, duct leaks, or an obstruction in the ducts. Until the issue is resolved, rooms may experience uneven heating.
Startup Problems
Sometimes, the issue is that the furnace doesn’t seem to start at all. In gas furnaces, there are numerous components responsible for supplying and combusting fuel. Even electric components have several elements and a precise function for creating heat. If any of these parts are compromised—either due to wear and tear or simply an excess of dirt and grime—they can prevent the furnace from starting up.
Short-Cycling
Furnaces are designed to go through several heating cycles. The length and frequency of these cycles helps ensure that the home stays warm while operating efficiently. A short-cycling furnace, then, is a furnace that cycles too rapidly. The home will take substantially longer to reach a suitable temperature. Plus, the startup cycle can be hard on the furnace’s components, causing them to wear out quicker.
Short-cycling can often be resolved through maintenance, but there are times where the furnace itself may need to be replaced.
For more information on furnace repair, contact Yost & Campbell Heating, Cooling & Generators today to speak with an expert.