Looking for gas furnace troubleshooting tips? Read on.

Your gas furnace is a vital asset to have during winter. Unfortunately, the pressure put on gas furnaces during the heating season often causes many of them to malfunction. This is often the case for homeowners with older gas furnaces or those who missed a maintenance routine. While there may be other reasons, these two are the main reasons gas furnace problems develop.

So what happens when your gas furnace develops problems when you need it the most? Of course, you want to call a professional HVAC technician to fix it. That is what we do with our gas furnace repair in Santa Clarita.

However, it is no lie that you can fix some gas furnace problems. This means you need to troubleshoot the furnace before you call a professional. You never know; you might be able to improve or resolve the situation yourself.

Facing different gas furnace problems? Use the tips we discuss below to figure out what is wrong with your heating system.

Gas Furnace Troubleshooting Warning

It is no secret that some gas furnace problems are so minor you can detect and fix them yourself. However, please note that some issues may pose physical and health risks to you. For instance, if the problem involves a gas leak, then it is crucial that you proceed with caution. You also need to be cautious if the issue is electrical.

You also want to verify that your gas furnace warranty will still cover you if you do the repairs yourself. Some companies will only cover you if your repairs are done professionally. We ensure to remind our clients to keep this in mind when we install new heating system nearby Santa Clarita.

Gas Furnace Problems And Gas Furnace Troubleshooting Tips

Now that you are aware of the potential dangers involved, let us proceed to common gas furnace problems and how to troubleshoot them. These steps will help you know what to do, when to call a professional, and when to call for a furnace install Santa Clarita CA.

Keep reading.

Gas Furnace Not Producing Heat

Turning on the gas furnace that’s not producing heat can be frustrating. This is a common issue faced by people with a conventional gas furnace.

If this is a problem you’re facing, here are some steps to take:

• Verify the thermostat settings to ensure they are properly configured.
• Verify that the gas supply is uninterrupted,
• Inspect the pilot light – if it’s out, relight it following the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Dirty or clogged filters may restrict airflow; replace or clean them.

Gas Furnace Producing Insufficient Heat

When it is the heating season, this furnace problem is the last thing you want to experience. When it starts freezing outside, you want your heating system blasting sufficient heat to keep your home cozy.

If the gas furnace is not producing enough heat as before, here are steps you can take:

• Examine the thermostat for accurate temperature settings,
• Check the air ducts for obstructions hindering proper airflow,
• Dirty burners can affect heating efficiency; clean them as per the manufacturer’s guidelines.

Frequent Cycling

Gas furnace short cycling can lead to numerous problems. It is a problem you do not want to stay with any longer. For starters, your heating system switching on and off frequently causes your house to not heat well.

Additionally, frequent cycling causes the HVAC system to overwork, consuming more fuel and wearing out more quickly.

If your HVAC system is turning on and off frequently, here are the possible cases and what you can do:

• If the thermostat settings or placement are incorrect, adjust the settings and install it in a cool, dry place.
• If the flame sensor is dirty or malfunctioning, clean or replace it accordingly.
• A clogged furnace filter or blocked vents can cause airflow restrictions. A dirty air filter can cause the furnace to overheat, leading to frequent cycling. Replace or clean filters regularly.

Unusual Noises

If you hear any unusual noises, such as banging, hissing, squealing, rattling, popping, or buzzing, then a problem must be addressed. At first, the noises may not affect the heating capacity of your furnace, but if ignored, they will result in a severe problem that could lead to a breakdown.

Here are some steps you can take to fix unusual noises:

• Rattling or banging sounds may indicate loose components; tighten or replace them as necessary.
• Squealing noises may result from a malfunctioning blower motor; lubricate or replace it.
• Popping sounds may be due to thermal expansion; consider consulting a professional for inspection.

N/B: Hissing sounds often indicate gas leaks. The best solution for this is to turn the furnace switch off and immediately call an HVAC professional to inspect the gas line.

Pilot Light Issue

The pilot light in a gas furnace is a small, continuous flame that ignites the gas burner when the thermostat signals a need for heat. If the pilot light is not functioning correctly, it can lead to various performance issues with your gas furnace.

If the pilot light fails to stay lit, it may be due to issues with the thermocouple or thermopile. These safety devices sense the pilot flame’s presence and prevent gas from flowing if the flame is out. A faulty thermocouple or thermopile may cause the pilot light to extinguish, resulting in a loss of heat production.

Besides, a healthy pilot light flame should be blue and steady. If it appears yellow, orange or flickers, it may indicate incomplete combustion caused by a dirty pilot orifice, a misadjusted pilot flame, or inadequate ventilation.

Such pilot issues may result in no heat production and occasionally raise safety concerns due to carbon monoxide exposure from incomplete combustion.

Here are some troubleshooting steps you can take:

• Ensure that the gas supply to the furnace is on. If the gas valve is closed, open it and attempt to relight the pilot.
• Use a small brush or compressed air to clean debris or dirt from the pilot orifice. A clogged orifice can obstruct the flow of gas to the pilot light.
• Inspect the Thermocouple and Thermopile: Check for proper positioning and ensure these components are in good condition. If they are faulty, they may need to be replaced by a professional.

Uneven Heating

Uneven heating can manifest as specific parts of your living room becoming heated, while leaving behind cold spots. Alternatively, some rooms could receive the necessary heat, while the rest remain cold.

Here are some causes of uneven heating and troubleshooting steps you can take:

• Clogged Air Ducts: Inspect and clean air ducts to ensure proper airflow throughout the home.
• Blocked Vents: Ensure all vents and registers are open and unobstructed to promote even heat distribution.
• Incorrect Thermostat Placement: The thermostat should be positioned away from heat sources, drafts, and direct sunlight to accurately gauge the room’s temperature.

Furnace Blower Runs Continuously

When a gas furnace blower runs continuously, it often results from a thermostat set to the “ON” position instead of “AUTO.” This setting keeps the blower running continuously, regardless of whether the furnace is actively heating. Adjust the thermostat to “AUTO” for proper blower operation and energy efficiency.

Continuous blower operation in a gas furnace can lead to several drawbacks, such as increased energy consumption, higher utility bills, and unnecessary wear on the motor. Additionally, it may cause uneven heating and discomfort due to a constant circulation of air, disrupting the desired temperature balance in your home.

Here are some steps to take to try to rectify this problem:

• Check the thermostat fan setting. If set to “ON” instead of “AUTO,” the blower will run continuously. Adjust the setting as needed.
• A malfunctioning limit switch may cause the blower to run continuously. A professional technician can inspect and replace the limit switch if necessary.

No Power To The Furnace

Have you ever tried switching on your gas furnace only to find that it won’t turn on? Wintertime is a season we all hope to enjoy heated air from our HVAC systems, and the last thing you want to experience is a gas furnace not receiving any power.

Here are some possible causes of the lack of furnace power and how you can solve that:

• Tripped Circuit Breaker: Check the circuit breaker to ensure it hasn’t tripped. Reset if necessary.
• Faulty Ignition System: The ignition system may be wrong if the furnace is not receiving power. Inspect and replace any damaged components or wiring.

Gas Smell Around The House

If you smell gas, it is probably due to a leaky valve. Start by switching off the gas furnace, then call the professionals to assess and possibly repair the furnace’s gas valve.

You should also request emergency HVAC repair from the gas company.

While waiting for the furnace repairs, ensure there are no naked flames to prevent accidents.

HVAC Santa Clarita To The Rescue

At HVAC Santa Clarita, we’re your comprehensive solution for all gas furnace problems. Whether it’s a mysterious gas smell, pilot light issues, or uneven heating, our seasoned technicians promptly identify and resolve cases. If your blower runs continuously or you experience frequent cycling, we have the expertise to diagnose and address these issues for optimal furnace performance.

We ensure safety and efficiency from checking and opening gas valves to inspecting ventilation systems. Trust us today for maintenance, installation and heating repair Santa Clarita.

FAQs – Gas Furnace Troubleshooting

How often should I replace my furnace filter?

Replace your furnace filter every 1-3 months(1), depending on usage. Regular replacement ensures optimal airflow, energy efficiency, and improved indoor air quality.

Can I troubleshoot a pilot light issue on my own?

While relighting a pilot light is straightforward, addressing complex issues is best left to professionals. Contact us for safe and thorough troubleshooting.

Why is my furnace making strange noises?

Unusual sounds may indicate loose components, dirty burners, or other issues. Schedule a professional inspection to identify and resolve the source of the noise.

How can I improve furnace efficiency?

Regular maintenance, including filter replacement and professional tune-ups, enhances efficiency. Ensure proper insulation and seal gaps to minimize heat loss, optimizing your furnace’s performance.

What should I do if I smell gas near my furnace?

Evacuate immediately, do not use electronic devices, and ventilate the area. Contact emergency services and wait outside. Our team will safely inspect and resolve the gas leak.

Final Thoughts on Gas Furnace Troubleshooting

At HVAC Santa Clarita, your comfort and safety are paramount. Trust us for comprehensive gas furnace solutions, from troubleshooting and maintenance to repair and replacement. Our skilled technicians ensure your system operates efficiently, addressing issues promptly. Whether it’s a pilot light malfunction, strange noises, or a gas smell, we’re here with expertise and professionalism. Count on HVAC Santa Clarita for reliable services, combining cutting-edge solutions with a commitment to customer satisfaction. Your home’s warmth and your peace of mind are our priorities. Experience excellence in HVAC care—choose HVAC Santa Clarita for all your gas furnace needs.

Reference

https://www.familyhandyman.com/list/furnace-not-working-simple-fixes/