Common Issues with Furnaces in Fall and Early Winter

There are a few times of the year where furnace maintenance can be quite important, and the fall season we're entering now is one of the top candidates. Because the furnace hasn't likely been in use much or at all over the last several months of the hot Utah summer, there can be a few basic issues that need troubleshooting.

At Dick Kearsley Service Center, we're here to help. We offer a wide range of AC repair and furnace repair services to clients around Ogden, Roy, Kaysville, Syracuse and nearby areas, including vital seasonal maintenance programs for the fall and spring seasons. Here are some of the issues you may run into with your furnace this fall, plus how to troubleshoot them and the importance of professional inspection and maintenance.

Ignition Issues

If you have an older furnace that requires a pilot light, this is often the first area to check for problems. If your pilot light isn't properly lit, it could be due to a few potential issues:

• Gas supply: Check that the gas valve is open and there's an appropriate gas supply coming into the furnace.
• Thermocouple: This small device senses the heat from the pilot flame, then signals to keep your gas line open. If it's dirty or malfunctioning, you may not have ignition.
• Pilot orifice: If this small opening is clogged with dirt or grime, it can prevent proper ignition.

If none of these issues are present, contacting a professional for further assistance is recommended.

Filter Issues

The filter is a vital part of a furnace, as it helps remove debris and particles from the air before they can enter your home. If you have an old or dirty filter, this can restrict airflow to the furnace and cause overheating, which may lead to the system shutting down. It's recommended that you check and replace your filters regularly, ideally every 1-3 months depending on usage.

Dust Concerns

In this section, we're not speaking about the dust and other dirt that can build up in your system if you do not change your filters, as we discussed above. Rather, we're talking about simple dust accumulations that might have happened over the summer while your furnace wasn't in use.

Before firing up your furnace for the first time this fall, it's a good idea to give it a quick dusting to prevent any potential airflow blockages.

Thermostat Concerns

In other cases, the long break between furnace usage may have caused issues with your thermostat. If the temperature readings seem off or it's not communicating properly with your furnace, try replacing the batteries first. If this doesn't resolve the issue, professional inspection and potential replacement may be necessary.

In some cases, furnace and thermostat wiring can also be damaged or corroded over time, leading to malfunctions. This is another area where professional assistance may be necessary.

Leaking Ducts

Early in your furnace's operations this fall, have you begun to notice that your home isn't heating evenly? This may be due to leaking ducts, which can commonly occur over time as seals and connections weaken. These leaks can lead to significant energy waste and a reduced lifespan for your furnace. If you notice uneven heating, have your duct system inspected by a professional.

Condensate Drain Clogs

If your furnace system uses a condensate drain, it's important to keep this clear of clogs and blockages. If the system isn't able to properly remove excess water, it can lead to damage in other areas such as air filters or fans.

Importance of Professional Maintenance

While regular maintenance checks from homeowners are important for ensuring your furnace runs smoothly and efficiently, it's also crucial to have professional inspections and tune-ups at least once a year. These services can help identify potential issues before they become larger problems that require expensive repairs or even full replacements.

In addition, professional technicians have the expertise and equipment necessary to thoroughly clean and maintain your furnace, providing you with reliable heating throughout the fall and winter seasons. This can save you money on energy bills and increase the lifespan of your furnace.

Furthermore, many manufacturer warranties require regular professional maintenance in order to remain valid. By neglecting this important step, you may risk voiding your warranty and being responsible for costly repairs or replacements.

Don't neglect the importance of furnace maintenance this fall season. Contact Dick Kearsley Service Center today to schedule your professional inspection and ensure your furnace is ready for the colder months ahead, whether you're in Ogden, Roy, Kaysville, Syracuse. We also perform all sorts of other appliance repairs!