Having a functioning furnace during the cold Massachusetts autumns and freezing winters is a necessity. When your heat stops working, you need dependable help fast. The expert HVAC technicians at Spencer Home Services have a list of the most common causes of a furnace not working, along with tips to prevent furnace problems in the future.
If you need furnace repairs, we provide expert heating repair services to guarantee your home is warm throughout the colder seasons.
Most Common Reason Why Your Furnace Is Not Working
From dirty filters to malfunctioning blower motors, there are many reasons a furnace may not be working properly. Understanding these common reasons for furnace repair will not only help you stay cozy throughout the winter but also potentially save you from costly breakdowns and discomfort:
- Electrical issues: Faulty or frayed wiring may be the reason your furnace is not turning on.
- Thermostat malfunctions: If your thermostat isn’t working properly, it can cause your furnace to think your home is warmer than it actually is.
- Pilot light goes out: A pilot light that frequently goes out may indicate issues with the gas supply, thermocouple, or other components that require attention.
- Dirty air filters: A dirty air filter obstructs warm air from blowing properly. If you can’t see through the filter when you hold it up to the light, it’s time to replace it.
- Furnace blowing cold air: A furnace blowing cold air could be an issue with the heat exchangers, filter, or thermostat.
- Ignition issues: Ignition malfunction can stem from problems with the pilot light, electrical ignition, or the gas supply.
- Furnace fan not working: When the blower fan isn’t functioning correctly, it can lead to inadequate heat distribution. Faulty fan motors or worn-out belts are common culprits.
What To Do When the Furnace Stops Working
If you encounter any of the issues mentioned above, it’s essential to troubleshoot them promptly. You can often resolve minor problems by checking the thermostat settings, inspecting air filters, or relighting the pilot light.
You can also reset your furnace, but only do this up to two times. If the furnace doesn’t fire on after two tries, don’t keep pressing the reset button. Doing this can short-circuit the system and cause increased wear and tear on struggling parts. Using the reset button should be a last resort before calling the experts at Spencer Home Services.
For complex issues, such as damaged wiring, a non-functioning fan, or ignition problems, it’s best to seek professional help. Our experienced technicians are well-equipped to diagnose and repair any furnace issue promptly and efficiently. We arrive on-site with common replacement parts and can usually resolve the issue in one visit.
Our technicians are available for heating services for the following Massachusetts areas:
Signs You Have a Broken Furnace
Here are some telltale signs that your furnace may require heating repair services in Essex County or the North Shore:
- Strange noises: A working furnace shouldn’t have any consistent banging, clanking, hissing, grinding, or rattling sounds. Continuing to use it and ignoring these sounds can result in a full system shutdown.
- Strange smells: Burning or mildewy smells can indicate broken parts or mold buildup.
- Rising energy bills: If you notice a dramatic spike in your heating bill without any change in usage, your furnace isn’t working as efficiently as it once was and could be on the verge of breaking.
- Breaker tripping: If your breaker keeps tripping while your furnace is on, there may be a wiring issue that requires professional repair.
- Uneven heating: If you notice some rooms feeling toasty and others feeling like a skating rink, your furnace isn’t distributing heat properly.
- Short cycling: If your furnace constantly turns on and off, it’s struggling to maintain your desired temperature. This could be a thermostat or a more involved internal issue.
- Yellow pilot light: A working pilot light should be blue. If you notice it flickering or turning yellow, it could be due to incomplete combustion and could result in serious carbon monoxide-related health issues.
- Old age: If your furnace is approaching its 15- to 20-year lifespan and showing multiple symptoms, it is more cost-effective to consider a furnace replacement. Spencer Home Services can help by providing information on high-efficiency furnace upgrades.
Call on Spencer Home Services for emergency repairs. Our family-owned and -operated company works on all gas, electric, and oil-burning furnaces. Over the past 40 years, we’ve earned a reputation for reliability in Massachusetts, and our focus is on creating intimate experiences for our clients. We offer a 10-year parts-and-labor warranty for HVAC/plumbing/electrical work, free second opinions, and free estimates for air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, and boilers.
How To Prevent Furnace Problems in the Cold Months
The best way to prevent furnace issues during the Massachusetts cold months is through regular maintenance. Preventative tune-ups catch minor problems before they become costly repairs. A few things Massachusetts homeowners can do include:
- Change the air filter: Do this every one to three months, and before the colder winter season hits.
- Clear the area around the furnace: Move clutter and any furniture or objects that could be blocking your vents.
- Test the thermostat: Change thermostat batteries before winter. Also, consider getting a smart thermostat that learns your habits and optimizes energy efficiency.
- Schedule a tune-up: Book a tune-up in the fall, at least a few months before winter, so your HVAC technician can identify issues early and clean and lubricate all moving parts.
Keep Warm This Winter With Spencer Home Services
A malfunctioning furnace will disrupt your daily life and put your comfort at risk. Trust Spencer Home Services to keep your furnace in peak condition so that you can enjoy warmth and peace of mind all season long. From your initial contact with us to the completion of the job, we provide a modern and professional touch, making you feel confident that you’re in the best hands. Contact us today for reliable furnace repair and maintenance services. Don’t let a malfunctioning furnace leave you in the cold.
