Winnipeg’s freezing winters make a properly functioning furnace essential for every home. When your furnace starts acting up, it can lead to discomfort and high energy bills. Understanding common furnace problems and their solutions can help you stay warm and avoid costly repairs. Browns Plumbing specializes in furnace maintenance and repair, ensuring your heating system runs efficiently throughout the winter. If your furnace is not performing as expected, it’s time to troubleshoot the issue and seek professional help if necessary.
1. Furnace Not Producing Heat
Possible Causes:
Thermostat settings are incorrect
Clogged air filters blocking airflow
Pilot light or ignition system failure
How to Fix It:
Check and adjust the thermostat to ensure it’s set to “heat” mode.
Replace dirty air filters to improve airflow.
If the pilot light is out, relight it following the manufacturer’s instructions, or call a professional for ignition system repairs.
2. Furnace Blowing Cold Air
Possible Causes:
Thermostat settings are incorrect
Clogged or dirty air filters
Faulty flame sensor
How to Fix It:
Set the thermostat to the correct temperature and ensure the fan is set to “auto.”
Replace or clean air filters to improve airflow and efficiency.
A faulty flame sensor may need cleaning or replacement by a professional.
3. Furnace Making Unusual Noises
Possible Causes:
Loose or broken components
Dirty burners causing delayed ignition
Blower motor issues
How to Fix It:
Rattling sounds may indicate loose screws or components; tighten them as needed.
If you hear banging or popping, the burners might need cleaning.
If the blower motor is noisy, schedule a professional inspection to avoid further damage.
4. Furnace Constantly Running
Possible Causes:
Thermostat is set too high
Dirty air filters restricting airflow
Blower motor or limit switch failure
How to Fix It:
Lower the thermostat setting and monitor the furnace operation.
Replace air filters to allow better airflow.
If the problem persists, a professional technician can inspect the blower motor or limit switch.
5. Furnace Short Cycling (Turning On and Off Frequently)
Possible Causes:
Overheating due to restricted airflow
Malfunctioning thermostat
Improper furnace size for the home
How to Fix It:
Ensure air filters are clean to prevent overheating.
Check thermostat placement—if it’s near a heat source, it may be reading temperatures incorrectly.
If the furnace is too large or too small for your home, consult a professional for recommendations.
6. Pilot Light or Ignition Problems
Possible Causes:
Dirty or faulty thermocouple
Gas supply issues
Faulty ignition control module
How to Fix It:
Clean or replace the thermocouple if it’s malfunctioning.
Ensure the gas valve is turned on and the supply is working properly.
If the ignition system fails, call a technician to diagnose and replace any faulty components.
7. Weak Airflow from Vents
Possible Causes:
Clogged air filters
Blocked or leaky ductwork
Failing blower motor
How to Fix It:
Regularly replace air filters to maintain proper airflow.
Inspect ducts for leaks or blockages and have them cleaned or repaired as needed.
If airflow remains weak, a technician may need to assess the blower motor for issues.
8. Increased Energy Bills
Possible Causes:
Dirty or clogged filters reducing efficiency
Aging furnace consuming more energy
Poor insulation in the home
How to Fix It:
Keep air filters clean to improve furnace performance.
Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace if yours is over 15 years old.
Ensure your home is properly insulated to prevent heat loss.
A well-maintained furnace is crucial for staying warm during Winnipeg’s harsh winters. By addressing these common furnace problems early, you can save money on repairs and energy costs.