With Boston winters as unpredictable as the T, ensuring your furnace is in top-notch condition is imperative to protecting both the comfort and safety of your home.
Regular maintenance can help prevent an emergency during the most unfavorable of times – think no heat during a Nor’easter – but homeowners may not be aware of all the warning signs to look for before it’s too late.
Let the contractors affiliated with HVAC 911 Boston help you explore some common furnace problems local residents may experience and provide some insight into how to address these issues quickly and effectively to keep your home safe and warm this winter.
Dirty filter
A clogged filter will restrict airflow, reducing the efficiency and lifespan of your home’s heating system. Air filters should be regularly cleaned or replaced in order to improve the efficiency of your furnace and the air quality in your home.
Bad ignitor
The failure of a furnace’s ignition to function properly can result in a serious lack of heat production for your home. A functioning ignitor should glow bright, and you should hear the gas control valve click before ignition.
It is important to take action immediately if you notice your furnace repeatedly attempting to ignite without success. A professional technician can identify and replace faulty components.
Flame issues
For older systems that have a traditional pilot light that burns all the time, an extinguishing flame can easily disrupt heating. You can follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight, but if the issue persists, it is usually indicative of a much deeper problem that will require a professional diagnosis.
Even if the light is consistent, a dirty or faulty flame sensor can still automatically shut down the heating unit in order to protect you from natural gas leaking into the home. Soot or debris covering the sensor is a clear sign that a professional cleaning is needed.
Bad motor
If you find areas of your home colder than others, your furnace might be struggling with uneven heat distribution. No or limited airflow from vents or cold air blowing from the unit are telltale signs that a failing motor may need to be inspected or replaced.
Additionally, while many furnaces produce a dull humming sound while running, a bad motor can cause unusual tapping, banging, rattling or squealing noises due to damaged or loose components.
If these issues persist, it is advisable to seek professional help to diagnose and address the issue as soon as possible before more damage is done.
Call HVAC 911 Boston to inspect your furnace
Regularly scheduled maintenance and inspection can go a long way in keeping your furnace functioning efficiently and your utility bills manageable throughout the long winter months.
Our contractor referral service will connect you with local, fully insured, bonded and licensed Boston area contractors who employ highly skilled technicians who you can trust to get the job done right.
Stay safe and comfortable within your home this winter. Contact a professional affiliated with HVAC 911 Boston today.
