Furnace Not Working | Top 10 Common Problems & Easy Solutions

When the cool fall and winter weather arrive, A furnace is crucial for comfort and survival in cold winter weather.Without it, we would still be huddling around wood fires to stay warm.Whether it’s a commercial or residential setting, the same basic problems plague furnaces.

Inevitably, a furnace stops working when you need it most. Consequently, fixing becomes urgent very quickly. The following instructions will help. With a little do-it-yourself experience and the proper guidance, i mean by knowing what the most common furnace problems are, you can take proactive measures to prevent them.

1.Improper Maintenance :-

We all know that Prevention Is Better Than Cure . If you fail to schedule annual furnace maintenance and inspections that could prevent unexpected problems and breakdowns. For starters, once a year, vacuum out the area around the furnace’s blower. If possible, also slide out the fan unit, clean each fan blade with a toothbrush, and then vacuum with a brush attachment on a vacuum cleaner. While you’re at it, look for oil ports on the motor, normally located near the motor shaft. If the motor has these, apply two to three drops of non-detergent motor oil into each port (you may have to remove a cover plate to do this). 

Though most contemporary motors don’t require lubrication, do lubricate motors with oil ports once a year.If the blower begins making a humming noise, it may be due to something as basic as a lack of lubrication or as complex as a faulty motor or capacitor. When the blower spins either weakly or not at all as it produces the hum, the capacitor is almost definitely at fault.These routine inspections can help the appliance run more efficiently and reliably.

2. Furnace is Not Producing Enough Heat :-

A furnace that doesn’t perform its main task may have problems with the thermostat setting, power, gas or the pilot light.For any type of furnaces, begin your troubleshoot by making sure that you have the thermostat adjusted to “Heat” mode and that its temperature setting is higher than the ambient temperature in the room right now. If neither of these happens to be your problem, try replacing the thermostat batteries.In the case of an electric furnace, start by checking out the basics -- that its power cord is securely plugged into an outlet and that its circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.

3.Clogged Air Filter :-

Clogged air filters are one of the biggest causes of furnace problems (and A/C problems too!). If your furnace turns on but doesn’t blow hot air very long, there is a good chance that your filter is too clogged. Dirty or clogged air filters reduce airflow, making a furnace work harder to circulate. In some cases, a clogged filter may damage the limit switch, which controls the fan.So check for dirty air filters. Because it can also become a fire hazard and cause premature breakdowns due to excessive dust and dirt.Replacing your furnace filter regularly is a quick and simple task, and goes a long way in protecting HVAC components and improving your inside air quality.

4.Malfunctioning Thermostat :-
A faulty thermostat can lead to problems with the fan or comfort levels.First of all check if the thermostat needs new batteries, replace them. Because some thermostats are wired to the home’s electrical system, while others use batteries. Sometimes those that use batteries will flash a low-battery symbol when they need a replacement, but the signal often goes unnoticed, says Bonner.

Then make sure it is set to “heat” and try setting the temperature at least 5 degrees higher than the current room temperature.

For electromechanical thermostats, you may need to open it up and give it a gentle dusting. Use a soft paintbrush or something similar to lightly brush off dirt and dust, including around the metal coils and contact plates. If your brush is too large, try a soft paper.And also check the location of your thermostat and make sure it isn’t receiving any false readings from sunlight, lamps, ovens, space heaters, or any other heat source. If the thermostat is receiving the wrong input, it will send out the wrong output.

5.Belt Problems and Blower Problems :-
The most common blower problems are probably belt problems, but sometimes a more serious problem creates similar symptoms. If your furnace is making a high pitched sound, it is likely the blower belt or the blower itself. The best way to resolve this problem is to have a qualified heating repair technician inspect and diagnose your system. Sometimes fixing this problem can be as simple as lubricating it. The belt could also be worn. Both of these situations can usually be avoided with annual maintenance inspections. Sometimes, the problem is with the blower motor or another mechanical part which will either need repair or replacement.

6.Gas Leak :-
If you suspect a furnace gas leak, deal with this immediately! First, if you smell natural gas in your home or near the furnace, do not light any matches or turn off or on any switches. If the gas odor is strong, you should immediately leave your home and contact your gas utility company.
A gas leak will effect the efficient operation of your gas furnace. But more importantly, it can be a very serious health hazard to you and your family.

7.Circuit Breaker Tripped :-

If you still haven’t found the problem? Go to your breaker panel and look for the circuit that controls the furnace.Occasionally, something has caused the circuit breaker to the furnace to trip, turning it off. Also, there is usually a switch (looks just like a light switch) near the furnace that turns it on and off. Verify that nobody turned this off by mistake, while trying to turn off the attic light, etc.

8.Ignition Problem :-

A faulty ignition system such as those found on furnaces with a thermocouple, can significantly reduce the ability of the furnace to properly heat the home. Drafts or clogs in your heating system can result in your pilot light going out.

Gas furnace operation can function with a pilot light or have electronic control, which eliminates the need for a constant flame.On an electronic-ignition furnace, turn down the thermostat or turn the power switch off and then on again to reset the ignition control module. Listen for the sound of the spark or watch for the hot surface igniter to glow (see your owner’s manual).Next check and clean the furnace’s flame sensor.

9.Blower fan is not working normally :-

Several kinds of furnace blower fan problems are possible. Blower issues may indicate a problem with the limit switch, which a professional may need to replace. If the blower begins making a humming noise, it may be due to something as basic as a lack of lubrication or as complex as a faulty motor or capacitor. When the blower spins either weakly or not at all as it produces the hum, the capacitor is almost definitely at fault.

10.The furnace is too noisy :-

A furnace that is struggling to function may produce all kinds of unusual noises, such as rumbling, squeaking and rattles which aren’t normal. The sounds may indicate a mechanical problem, airflow reductions or a clogged burner. Rather than ignore these warning sounds, find a pro to repair your heating system before the problem gets worse.