A gas furnace is one of the most common appliances in many homes. While the furnace is great, it tends to develop a number of problems. Here are some of the most common problems:
Ignition problems
Gas furnaces have two main types of ignition systems: intermittent and direct ignition. In the intermittent ignition, a small flame comes first when you turn on the ignition and then ignites the main burners. In the direct ignition system the main burners come on immediately you turn on the ignition.
If you suspect the furnace problem is as a result of an ignition problem you should open the front of the furnace and check how your system ignites. If you notice a problem you should contact a gas furnace technician to come and take a look at it.
Pilot light gets lost
Common causes of a lost pilot light include: failed thermocouple, clogged orifice or strong draft. The problem is mostly brought about by a failed thermocouple. A thermocouple is a device found on a standing pilot system. It allows gas to keep flowing as long as the flame is sensed. This problem is very sensitive and you should let it be handled by a professional furnace repair contractor.
No heat
There are a number of possible causes of this problem. The most common causes are:
- The thermostat is set too low
- The thermostat isn’t working
- The fuse or circuit breaker controlling the furnace is blown or tripped
- The pilot light is out
- You have closed natural gas or propane control valve
- The unit has intermittent pilot electronic ignition problem
- Your furnace has a hot surface ignition electric ignition problem
To correct the problem you should check the thermostat and ensure that it’s in heat mode and set at the right temperature. You should also troubleshoot the surface ignition and intermittent ignition systems.
If you try all the above and the system doesn’t work you should consider hiring a HVAC contractor to come and take a look at the furnace.
Blower doesn’t stop
This is a very common problem. If the fan is running continuously you should check the settings of the furnace and ensure that it’s not set to “continuous.” If the setting is okay, the problem could be at the fan limit control switch. You can replace or reset the switch and you will have solved the problem.
Conclusion
- While there are some gas furnace problems that you can rectify on your own, it’s usually recommended that you hire a furnace repair contractor. In addition to repairing the prominent problems, the contractor may also identify other minor problems thus saving your appliance from failure.
