Your heater is a vital piece of equipment that keeps you warm and comfortable during the cold days - that’s why it’s important to take good care of it. If you don’t fix small problems early enough, they will explode into bigger ones and you’ll have to cough up a lot of money for repairs, or your heating system won’t work efficiently. 

Here are some common issues that plague furnaces:

Lack of Maintenance

Regular maintenance can help you fix all the issues you can’t fix yourself. If you notice such a problem, a qualified HVAC company that provides exceptional service just like Morris Jenkins furnace service, can help. They're trained to spot potential issues with your furnace and can fix them before they become more serious.

Leaky Ductwork

Leaky ductwork is a common problem that can cause your heating system to work harder and use more energy. When the heat from the system escapes through holes in the passages, your home may not be as warm as it could be if there were no leakages. Consequently, you end up with heat loss and a high energy bill. If you suspect that something might be wrong with your ducts, ensure they’re checked right away by a professional HVAC technician.

The Furnace Won't Turn On at All

If your furnace won't turn on, there are a few things to check. First, make sure the power is on and you have turned the thermostat to the desired temperature. Second, check that all vents are clear of debris. Third, look for any issues with your home’s electrical wiring. Finally, check the pilot light. If you still can't find the problem after checking these things, it may be time to call an electrician.

Furnace Short Cycling

If your furnace is constantly turning on and off, it could indicate something is wrong with the system. Short cycling may occur when there's too much dirt or moisture within the heating system or when the vents are blocked. Overheating, dirty filters, faulty limit switch, and damaged flame sensors may also be the culprit. After noticing short cycling, the best thing you can do is to clean the filters, unclog the vents, or replace the other parts we’ve mentioned if they’re faulty.

Dirty Filters

The unwritten rule of thumb is that you should change your filters every three months, but you can check the manufacturer’s manual for advice on when you need filter replacements. It’s also important to clean regularly if you want to keep them working at their best. A dirty filter will restrict airflow through your system and cause low heat output or even dangerous levels of dirt, or even worse, carbon monoxide.

Little or No Air Flow

Check the venting system for clogs and debris. Also, check the ductwork for cracks or holes—this could cause airflow problems as well. Finally, remove all the obstructions that may block airflow from the vents to your spaces.

Unpleasant Odors

If you notice your furnace is smelling like burning rubber, there may be loose connections or other electrical problems in the central heating unit. Other smells that need speedy attention include:

• Rotten eggs - there may be serious gas leakage. Dusty smell - dirt build-up. Open the heater and vacuum-clean it thoroughly.
• Musty smell - check for mold build-up

Furnace Making Unusual Noises

The furnace makes various noises, including humming and buzzing. A small buzzing is also normal, but can sometimes emanate from clogged filters. But if you notice any unusual noises coming from your furnace, such as extremely loud rattling and humming, contact a qualified HVAC company immediately.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are many problems that can affect your heating system. The good news is that they are all fairly easy to diagnose and fix once you know what causes them. Don't wait until you have a problem to fix it - be proactive about maintenance!