As the cooler months approach in Texas and Oklahoma, ensuring your furnace is in top condition becomes a top priority for homeowners and businesses alike. A well-maintained furnace not only ensures a comfortable and warm indoor environment, but it also helps you avoid costly repairs and extend the lifespan of your heating system. At Advanced Cooling, we understand the importance of a properly functioning furnace, which is why we’ve put together some essential furnace repair tips to help you prepare for winter.
Since 2001, our team has been providing top-notch heating and cooling solutions to customers across Texas and Oklahoma. Whether you’re in need of a minor furnace tune-up or a more complex repair, we’re here to help you keep your furnace running efficiently throughout the winter. Below, we highlight some of the most important furnace repair tips to ensure your system is ready for the colder months ahead.
Change or Replace the Air Filter
Why it’s important: The air filter in your furnace plays a critical role in maintaining good indoor air quality and efficient heating. As the filter traps dust, dirt, and other particles, it can become clogged over time, restricting airflow. This can lead to higher energy bills, reduced comfort, and even potential furnace damage.
What to do: Before the winter chill sets in, check and replace your furnace filter. Depending on usage and the type of filter, it should be replaced every 1-3 months. A clean filter helps the furnace run more efficiently, reduces the risk of overheating, and keeps the air in your home clean.
If you notice any build-up or debris in the filter area, take the time to vacuum out the space to avoid any further blockages.
Test the Thermostat
Why it’s important: Your thermostat controls the temperature in your home by signaling your furnace to turn on and off as needed. If it’s malfunctioning, it can cause the furnace to run inefficiently, leading to higher heating costs or inadequate warmth during the coldest months.
What to do: Test the thermostat by turning the heat on and adjusting the temperature. Ensure the furnace responds properly to changes. If your thermostat is unresponsive, or if the temperature doesn’t seem accurate, it could be time for a recalibration or replacement.
Tip: If you have an older manual thermostat, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. These models allow you to set specific temperatures for different times of the day, providing more precise control and potentially saving you money on your energy bills.
Check the Furnace’s Pilot Light or Ignition System
Why it’s important: The pilot light or ignition system in a furnace is responsible for igniting the gas to create heat. If your furnace uses a standing pilot light, it can go out over time. Modern furnaces may use an electronic ignition system, which can fail as well.
What to do: For furnaces with a pilot light, check to see if it’s lit. If the flame is out, try relighting it following the manufacturer’s instructions. If the light won’t stay lit, the thermocouple (the safety mechanism that shuts off the gas if the flame is out) may need to be replaced.
For electronic ignition systems, consult a professional HVAC contractor to inspect the components for any issues. A malfunctioning ignition system will prevent your furnace from producing heat and requires professional attention.
Clean the Furnace and Ducts
Why it’s important: Over time, dust and debris accumulate inside your furnace and ductwork. This not only reduces the system’s efficiency but can also be a fire hazard. Dirty furnace components may also trigger the system’s safety features, causing it to shut down prematurely.
What to do: Turn off the power to your furnace before cleaning. Use a vacuum or soft brush to gently remove dust from the furnace’s blower compartment, burner area, and other accessible components. If you have a furnace with a blower motor, clean the blades as well to maintain optimal airflow.
Additionally, it’s a good idea to have your air ducts cleaned at least every 3-5 years. Clogged ducts can reduce airflow, making the system work harder and increasing your energy bills.
Tip: While cleaning the system, also inspect the area around the furnace for any signs of pests or rodent activity. Animals can sometimes nest in ducts or around furnace units, which can damage the system or cause safety concerns.
Inspect the Furnace Flame
Why it’s important: The color of the furnace flame provides important clues about the health of your system. A yellow or orange flame indicates incomplete combustion, which can lead to inefficient heating and potential safety hazards, such as carbon monoxide production.
What to do: Look at the burner flames inside the furnace. If the flame is a steady blue, your furnace is operating normally. However, if the flame is yellow or flickering, this could be a sign of dirt in the burners, poor ventilation, or other issues that need professional attention.
Tip: If you notice a yellow flame, it’s essential to call a qualified HVAC technician. In addition to potential efficiency problems, a yellow or orange flame can be a sign that your furnace is producing dangerous carbon monoxide. A professional technician will inspect the system for proper combustion and make any necessary repairs.
Inspect the Exhaust Flue
Why it’s important: The exhaust flue is responsible for venting harmful gases, like carbon monoxide, out of your home. Over time, flues can become blocked by debris, bird nests, or ice. A blocked exhaust flue is a serious safety concern that can lead to dangerous gas buildup inside your home.
What to do: Inspect the exhaust vent outside your home for any visible blockages. Clear away any debris, leaves, or nests that could obstruct airflow. If you have a high-efficiency furnace with a PVC exhaust pipe, check for any water or ice buildup, particularly in colder months.
Tip: If you’re not comfortable inspecting the exhaust vent yourself or if you suspect a more serious blockage, call a professional. Regular inspections of your exhaust system ensure that your furnace operates safely and efficiently.
Schedule Professional Furnace Maintenance
Why it’s important: While some tasks can be done by homeowners, certain aspects of furnace maintenance require a professional touch. A licensed HVAC contractor has the tools, expertise, and experience to diagnose potential issues before they become major problems. Scheduling a professional furnace tune-up before the winter season can help you avoid breakdowns and ensure your system is operating at peak performance.
What to do: Contact a trusted HVAC contractor to schedule an annual furnace inspection and tune-up. During this visit, the technician will inspect all furnace components, clean the system, and make any necessary repairs or adjustments.
Tip: Many HVAC companies, including Advanced Cooling, offer seasonal maintenance plans that include regular tune-ups, priority service, and discounts on repairs. A maintenance plan can help you keep your furnace in top condition year-round.
Conclusion
Proper furnace maintenance is essential to keeping your home or business warm and comfortable throughout the winter. By taking the necessary steps to prepare your furnace, you can avoid costly repairs, improve energy efficiency, and extend the life of your system. At Advanced Cooling, we specialize in heating and cooling solutions for both residential and commercial customers across Texas and Oklahoma. If you need help with furnace repairs, maintenance, or installation, give us a call today. Our team is committed to providing friendly, professional, and affordable service to keep your heating system in top shape all winter long.
Advanced Cooling is the premier choice for HVAC services in Texas and Oklahoma. With a team of highly trained and certified technicians, we have the expertise to handle all of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning needs. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is unmatched, and we always go above and beyond to ensure that your experience with us is positive. We use only the highest quality parts and equipment to ensure that your HVAC system is running at peak performance. Plus, we offer competitive pricing and flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Choose Advanced Cooling for all of your HVAC needs in Texas and Oklahoma.
