Troubleshooting 4 Common Furnace Problems

04 Jan Troubleshooting 4 Common Furnace Problems

SERVING AREAS OF BRISTOL, JOHNSON CITY, AND KINGSPORT TN

The last thing you want to hear on a cold winter morning is the sound of your furnace struggling to work to heat your home. Or better yet, when it blows cold air instead of the warm air that you were expecting. These are signs that your HVAC system is having difficulties functioning, and it is time to have it checked by a trained HVAC technician in Bristol, Johnson City, or Kingsport. Below is a list of troubleshooting four common furnace problems during the cold season.

1. Scraping Sounds

When you hear metal scraping against metal, it could be a problem with the blower wheel. When you hear the scraping, turn your unit off immediately and call Thompson Electrical Service to investigate the situation. There are several things that could be wrong with the blower wheel, such as it being loose, which can be tightened, it could be defective and need to be replaced, or it could be that the motor mount broke causing the blower to shake uncontrollably, causing the scraping sound. Whatever the cause, a certified technician can diagnose the problem and provide a solution.

2. Loud Bang When the Furnace Starts

Hearing a loud bang when your furnace starts can be a startling experience. When the furnace pops while starting, there could be multiple causes. However, the most common cause of a loud noise from your furnace could be a contaminated ignitor or furnace burner. If the furnace ignitor prevents the burners from lighting, a loud bang may sound when the burner actually lights. Unfortunately, when the loud pop sounds, it can cause other safety issues, such as causing a crack in the heat exchanger, potentially resulting in a carbon monoxide leak. If the heat exchanger cracks, it can be very expensive.

If you are a homeowner with metal ductwork, you will notice loud bangs caused by the air ducts expanding and contracting after the heating system starts. When your furnace is making the loud noise, it could be an indicator of a clogged air filter, obstructed vents, or undersized ducts.

3. Whining Noise

A whining noise could come from any moving component in your HVAC unit. However, the most typical issues the technicians at Thompson Electrical Service see is the blower belt, a malfunctioning blower motor, or the shaft bearings need oil. These issues can be resolved during a furnace maintenance appointment with one of our certified HVAC technicians.

4. Cold Air Blowing From the Heater

If you turn on the heat and only get cold air, don’t panic, check to make sure that the thermostat reads the correct temperature you desire in your home. It may sound silly, but that is the first thing a technician will check when servicing your unit. Also, confirm that the system is set on the “AUTO” setting and not “ON.” When the system is set to auto, it will blow warm air. However, if you have the system turned to on, the unit will run continuously and will blow cooler air. So, make sure your unit is set to “AUTO” if your goal is to heat your home.

A Few More Things to Check

In addition to the other issues, you could have a few other non-mechanical problems. First, check your air filters to ensure they are not dirty or clogged. Also, your ductwork could be an issue by permitting warm air to leak from a connection issue or a design flaw. Leaking ductwork can cause your unit to blow cold air and increase your electric bill.

If your HVAC unit is struggling to heat your home this winter, then call Thompson Electrical Service today at (423) 343-5726 to schedule an inspection.