Common Furnace Problems and How to Prevent Them
Winter in Stoneham, MA, and the surrounding area means cold nights and even colder mornings. During these months, your furnace is essential for keeping your home warm and your family comfortable. But like any appliance, furnaces can develop problems—sometimes at the worst possible time. At Silco Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we’ve helped countless homeowners tackle furnace issues and keep their systems running smoothly.
Here’s a guide to the most common furnace problems and, most importantly, how to prevent them.
1. Dirty or Clogged Filters
The Problem: A dirty air filter restricts airflow, making your furnace work harder to heat your home. Over time, this can lead to overheating, higher energy bills, and reduced system lifespan.
How to Prevent It:
- Check your filter monthly and replace it as needed, especially during peak heating season.
- Use high-quality filters that match your furnace’s specifications.
2. Pilot Light or Ignition Issues
The Problem: If your furnace isn’t igniting properly, it won’t produce heat. Common causes include:
- A faulty thermocouple.
- Dirt or debris in the pilot light.
- An issue with the electronic ignition system.
How to Prevent It:
- Schedule regular maintenance to keep the ignition system clean and functioning properly.
- If you notice the pilot light frequently going out, it’s time to call a professional.
3. Frequent Cycling
The Problem: Your furnace turns on and off more often than usual, which is called short cycling. This can happen because of:
- A clogged air filter.
- A thermostat issue.
- An improperly sized furnace.
How to Prevent It:
- Keep your filter clean.
- Ensure your thermostat is working correctly and positioned away from heat sources.
- Consult a professional to assess your system if short cycling persists.
4. Blower Running Constantly
The Problem: If your blower fan won’t shut off, it could be due to a faulty limit switch or your thermostat being set to “fan.”
How to Prevent It:
- Check your thermostat settings and switch it from “fan” to “auto.”
- Schedule a professional inspection to diagnose and repair any electrical issues.
5. Unusual Noises
The Problem: Banging, rattling, or squealing sounds from your furnace can indicate various issues, such as:
- Loose components.
- A worn-out belt.
- Dirty burners.
How to Prevent It:
- Tighten loose parts and lubricate moving components during regular maintenance.
- Address unusual noises promptly to prevent more significant damage.
6. Inadequate Heating
The Problem: If your furnace isn’t heating your home evenly, the problem could be:
- Leaky ducts.
- A clogged filter.
- A failing component, such as the blower motor.
How to Prevent It:
- Seal your ducts to prevent warm air from escaping.
- Stay on top of filter replacements and annual tune-ups.
- Call a professional if uneven heating continues.
7. Furnace Won’t Turn On
The Problem: There’s nothing more frustrating than a furnace that won’t start on a freezing morning. Possible causes include:
- A tripped circuit breaker.
- A malfunctioning thermostat.
- A failed blower motor or other major component.
How to Prevent It:
- Check your thermostat batteries and settings.
- Ensure your circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
- Schedule annual maintenance to catch potential problems before they cause a breakdown.
How Silco Plumbing, Heating & Cooling Can Help
At Silco Plumbing, Heating & Cooling, we understand how vital a reliable furnace is during the winter. That’s why we offer:
- Comprehensive furnace maintenance to prevent common issues.
- Expert repairs to fix problems quickly and effectively.
- 24/7 emergency service for those unexpected breakdowns.
- A team of licensed professionals with decades of experience serving Stoneham, MA, and the surrounding area.
Stay Warm and Worry-Free This Winter
The key to avoiding furnace problems is proactive care. By staying on top of maintenance and addressing minor issues early, you can extend the life of your furnace and enjoy a warm, cozy home all winter long.
If you’re experiencing furnace trouble or want to schedule a tune-up, call Silco Plumbing, Heating & Cooling at 781-438-8925. We’re here to keep your furnace running smoothly, so you can focus on enjoying the season with your family.
Don’t let furnace problems leave you in the cold—contact us today!
