Furnace Repair Basildon

Frequently Asked Questions about Furnace Repair

Why is my furnace blowing cold air?

Possible reasons for cold air include:

• Pilot light or ignition problems: In older furnaces, the pilot light needs to be lit for the burners to ignite. In newer furnaces, a faulty electronic ignition system can prevent the burners from igniting.
• Thermostat issues: An incorrectly set or malfunctioning thermostat can prevent the furnace from turning on or cause it to blow cold air. Check your thermostat settings to ensure the system is set to 'heat' and the temperature setting is higher than the current room temperature.
• Overheating: If the furnace overheats, a safety switch may shut off the burners, causing the blower to circulate cold air.. Overheating can also damage your furnace, so it's best to have a professional inspect the system.
• Ductwork problems: Leaks in your ductwork can allow heated air to escape into unconditioned spaces, reducing the amount of warm air that reaches your rooms.. This can also result in the furnace blowing cold air, especially if the leak is near the beginning of the ductwork run.

If you're not able to identify the cause and fix the problem yourself, contact a furnace repair professional.

What are the most common furnace problems?

Common furnace problems range from minor issues to major system failures, such as:

• No Heat or Reduced Heat Output: This can be caused by a faulty thermostat, a clogged air filter, or a malfunctioning igniter.
• Strange Noises: Unusual sounds like banging, squealing, or rumbling can indicate problems with the blower motor, igniter, or other components.
• Short Cycling: This is when the furnace turns on and off too frequently, which can be caused by a faulty thermostat, an overheating furnace, or a clogged air filter.
• Pilot Light/Ignition Problems: In older furnaces, a faulty pilot light can prevent the furnace from igniting. In newer furnaces, issues with the electronic ignition system can cause similar problems.
• Blower Motor Issues: If the blower motor isn't functioning, your furnace may not distribute heat properly. A faulty blower motor should be addressed by a technician.
• Dirty Air Filter: A clogged air filter restricts air circulation. It may lead to more serious problems.
• Cracked Heat Exchanger: This is a serious safety hazard, as it can lead to carbon monoxide leaks. A cracked heat exchanger needs to be repaired or replaced immediately.

Don't attempt DIY repairs if you're not qualified.

What is a pilot light?

A pilot light is a tiny flame used in older furnaces. When the thermostat signals for heat, the pilot light ignites the main burners, heating the air. . While pilot lights are generally reliable, they can sometimes go out or malfunction, requiring relighting or repair. They also consume a small amount of gas continuously, even when the furnace is not actively heating. .

What are the different types of furnaces?

The most common types of furnaces are classified by their fuel source:

• Natural Gas Furnaces: These are the most popular type, fueled by natural gas, which is generally readily available and relatively affordable in many areas. Natural gas furnaces offer cleaner energy, especially compared to oil.
• Propane Furnaces: Propane furnaces are similar to natural gas furnaces These are a good option in areas where natural gas isn't accessible.
• Oil Furnaces: Oil furnaces are less common than gas or propane furnaces but still used in certain regions. Oil units may require additional considerations for fuel storage and delivery.
• Electric Furnaces: Electric furnaces use electric resistance heating elements to generate heat.. They are typically less expensive to purchase than gas furnaces, but they can be more expensive to operate depending on your electricity rates.

An HVAC professional can help you determine the best type of furnace for your home or business.