Furnace Repair Braintree

Frequently Asked Questions about Furnace Repair

How do I maintain my furnace?

Proper care to keeping your furnace running optimally and extending its lifespan. Here are some essential steps for furnace maintenance:

• Change or Clean Air Filters: Change your furnace air filter at least every three months, or more often if needed. If you have pets or allergies, replace filters more frequently.
• Annual Inspection and Tune-Up: It's essential to schedule professional furnace maintenance once a year, preferably before the start of the heating season.. This will maximize efficiency and minimize the risk of breakdowns.
• Clean the Area Around the Furnace: Keep the area around your furnace clean and free of debris. This helps to prevent dust and dirt from entering the system and improves airflow.
• Check the Thermostat: Make sure your thermostat is functioning properly and set to the desired temperature.
• Inspect Ductwork: Inspect air ducts for any leaks or damage and seal them promptly to prevent energy loss and maintain efficient airflow.

Regular maintenance is an investment that protects your system and enhances comfort.

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. Ignition issues are a common culprit.
• Thermostat issues: An incorrectly set or malfunctioning thermostat can prevent the furnace from turning on or make it blow cold air. Check that your thermostat is set correctly and is sending a signal to the furnace to turn on.
• Overheating: If the furnace overheats, it could activate a limit switch. 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 your furnace is blowing cold air, it's important to troubleshoot the problem and, if necessary, call a qualified HVAC technician for repair.

What is a furnace tune-up?

A furnace tune-up is an annual checkup performed by a professional that assesses the furnace's condition, cleans vital parts, and makes any necessary adjustments. A typical tune-up may include:

• Inspecting and cleaning the burners
• Checking the heat exchanger for cracks or leaks
• Inspecting the blower motor and fan
• Checking the flue pipe for proper venting
• Testing the safety controls
• Lubricating moving parts
• Checking refrigerant levels (for heat pumps)
• Testing for carbon monoxide leaks

Annual tune-ups maximize the life and efficiency of your furnace.

What are the signs that my furnace needs to be replaced?

If your furnace is exhibiting any of the following signs, it may be time for a replacement:

• Age: If your furnace is 15-20 years or older, it is likely nearing the end of its lifespan and more prone to breakdowns.
• Frequent Repairs: If your furnace requires frequent and costly repairs, it may be more economical to replace it than to keep repairing it.
• Increasing Energy Bills: A significant increase in your heating bills could indicate that your furnace is losing efficiency.
• Inconsistent Heating: Uneven temperatures throughout your home or business could mean your furnace isn't functioning as it should.
• Strange Noises: Unusual sounds coming from your furnace, such as banging, squealing, or rumbling, can signal mechanical problems.
• Yellow Flame: A healthy furnace flame should be blue. A yellow flame suggests a problem with the burners or venting. A yellow flame requires immediate attention.
• Dry Air: While not a direct indicator of malfunction, older furnaces can make your indoor air very dry.

It's important to address issues as soon as possible.