Causes of Furnace Failure
Furnace failure can occur due to various reasons, including mechanical problems. If your heating unit has underlying issues, schedule a heating repair with a qualified technician for diagnosis and fixing. Here are some causes of furnace failure:
Dirty Filters
When filters become clogged with dust, dirt, and debris, they obstruct the flow of air through the furnace system. A clogged filter contributes to short cycling, which accelerates wear and tear on the furnace components. Restricted airflow forces the furnace blower to work harder to push air through the system, straining the motor.
When the furnace blower works harder to compensate for restricted airflow, it causes the furnace to overheat. Overheating poses a significant risk to the furnace components, including the heat exchanger. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures causes metal fatigue, cracks, or other damage to the heat exchanger.
Malfunctioning Thermostat
Many thermostats are battery-powered, and if the batteries become depleted or fail, the thermostat malfunctions. This prevents the furnace from receiving signals to turn on or off, resulting in heating issues or system downtime. Replacing the batteries in a thermostat routinely helps prevent this type of failure.
Incorrect thermostat settings or calibration issues can cause the furnace to run excessively, leading to the system overheating. Overheating can damage components such as the heat exchanger, blower motor, or electrical controls, resulting in premature furnace failure. During heating repair visits, a technician calibrates thermostat settings correctly to restore normal functioning.
Faulty Electrical Components
Electrical wiring within the furnace degrades over time due to factors such as heat, vibration, or corrosion. Damaged or frayed wiring causes short circuits, intermittent operation, or complete system failure. Loose connections or improperly installed wiring can also disrupt the flow of electricity and prevent components from functioning correctly.
Furnaces contain flame sensors or temperature sensors that monitor specific conditions and provide feedback to the control system. If a sensor fails or becomes contaminated, it provides inaccurate readings or fails to signal the control system appropriately, leading to operational issues. A technician can test electrical connections, inspect components for damage, replace defective parts, or recalibrate control settings to boost furnace performance.
Defective Ignition or Pilot Control Systems
If the electronic ignition system malfunctions or fails to operate correctly, the furnace may fail to start. Common causes of electronic ignition problems include defective ignition modules, deteriorated igniters, or wiring issues. Obstructions such as debris and dust near the pilot assembly can interfere with ignition, causing the furnace to malfunction.
In older furnace models, a pilot light is used to ignite the main burner. If the pilot light goes out unexpectedly or fails to stay lit, it prevents the furnace from producing heat. Common causes of pilot light problems include obstructed pilot assembly or gas supply issues.
Blocked Vents and Ductwork
Obstructed vents or ductwork cause condensation to form within the HVAC system, leading to moisture buildup and potential mold growth. Moisture damages components such as the heat exchanger, blower motor, or electrical elements, resulting in operational issues or system failure. The blockage strains the furnace as it tries to compensate for the imbalance, contributing to system failure.
Blocked vents or ductwork can lead to pressure buildup within the heating system. As the furnace continues to operate despite the restricted airflow, pressure may accumulate within the ducts. This pressure buildup can trigger safety mechanisms within the furnace, causing it to shut down automatically to prevent damage.
Book an Appointment for Heating Repair Services
If your heating unit doesn’t warm your home effectively, it could have underlying issues. A technician can troubleshoot problems within the thermostat, filters, vents, ductwork, and ignition. Book an appointment for heating repair services today to boost furnace operation.
