As temperatures drop and the need for warmth becomes paramount, even the most reliable furnaces can falter, leaving homeowners in the cold. From the cozy neighborhoods of East Nashville to the historic districts of Germantown, residents face a common adversary: furnace malfunctions.
So, what should you be watching out for?
Let’s go through the most common furnace problems you should watch out for in Nashville.
1. Dirty or Clogged Filters
Furnaces often work overtime to keep homes warm and comfortable. However, if the filters become clogged with dirt, dust, and other debris, it can restrict airflow, leading to decreased HVAC efficiency and potentially causing the furnace to overheat.
This reduces the effectiveness of heating. It also puts unnecessary strain on the system. That leads to increased energy consumption. It can also end in higher utility bills.
Regularly changing or cleaning furnace filters is important to prevent this issue. Homeowners should aim to inspect their furnace filters monthly and replace them as needed, especially during periods of heavy furnace use.
2. Blower Motor Issues
The blower motor is important for distributing heated air throughout the home, ensuring consistent warmth and comfort. However, over time, the blower motor can experience wear and tear. That leads to operational issues that affect airflow.
One potential problem is a malfunctioning motor, which can result in reduced airflow or complete failure of the blower. This can manifest as uneven heating in different areas of the home or a complete lack of warm air circulation.
3. Ignition Problems
Whether the furnace operates on a traditional pilot light or an electronic ignition system, malfunctions in the ignition process can lead to a lack of heat production, leaving homes uncomfortably cold.
In older furnaces with pilot lights, common issues include a pilot light that won’t stay lit or produces a weak flame. This can result from problems with the thermocouple, gas supply, or pilot assembly.
Electronic ignition systems can experience faults with ignition control modules, flame sensors, or igniters, leading to failed ignition attempts.
Homeowners may notice that their furnace repeatedly attempts to start without success or fails to ignite altogether. This can lead to frustration, discomfort, and dangerous situations if not addressed.
4. Clogged Condensate Lines
Clogged condensate lines present a common furnace problem to watch for in Nashville, TN, particularly in high-efficiency furnaces often found in modern homes.
These furnaces produce condensation as a byproduct of the combustion process, which is drained away through condensate lines. However, over time, these lines can become clogged with dirt, debris, or algae growth, leading to issues with drainage.
Regular furnace maintenance, including flushing and cleaning of condensate lines, can help prevent clogs and ensure proper drainage.
Installing a condensate line trap or treating the lines with algaecide tablets can help prevent algae growth and blockages.
However, if homeowners notice signs of a clogged condensate line, they must contact a qualified HVAC technician for inspection and repair. These could include water leaks or furnace shutdowns. That will help you reduce the likelihood you’ll need emergency furnace repairs in the future.
5. Weird Noises
These noises, ranging from banging and rattling to squealing or grinding, can indicate various issues within the furnace system.
Banging or rattling noises might signal loose or broken components, such as belts, bearings, or screws, which can result from regular wear and tear or improper installation.
Squealing or screeching sounds could indicate issues with belts or bearings needing lubrication or replacement.
Grinding noises are particularly concerning as they could signify serious mechanical problems, such as a malfunctioning blower motor or damaged components within the furnace. Ignoring such noises can lead to further home damage and costly repairs.
6. Water Leaks
If you see water leaking, it can be a major issue.
Water leaks from the furnace should never be ignored. These leaks can quickly lead to mold growth, structural damage, and even safety hazards such as electrical fires or gas leaks.
Homeowners in Nashville should regularly inspect their furnaces for signs of water leaks and address any issues right away. These could include puddles or dampness around the unit.
Leaks can occur if there are issues with the furnace’s heat exchanger or flue pipe. A cracked heat exchanger or corroded flue pipe can allow water to escape into the surrounding area, causing significant damage to the furnace and surrounding materials.
High-efficiency furnaces produce condensation as a byproduct of the combustion process, which is drained away through condensate lines. If these lines become clogged or the condensate pan becomes damaged, water can back up and overflow, leading to leaks around the furnace.
7. Gas Supply Issues
Furnaces rely on keeping up a normal supply of natural gas to generate heat. Any disruptions to this supply can result in heating failures or safety hazards.
One common gas supply issue is a closed or partially closed gas valve. This can occur accidentally or intentionally, such as during maintenance or renovations.
Gas supply issues can arise from problems with the gas meter, such as a malfunction or damage that restricts gas flow.
8. Carbon Monoxide
Furnaces, particularly those fueled by natural gas, can produce CO as a byproduct of incomplete combustion. That can be extremely problematic for you and your family’s health.
Carbon monoxide leaks are a massive furnace problem to watch for in Nashville, TN, and anywhere else heating systems are used. Furnaces, particularly those fueled by natural gas, can produce CO as a byproduct of incomplete combustion. CO can quickly become deadly if ingested in large amounts.
Signs of a CO leak from a furnace include flu-like symptoms such as headaches, nausea, dizziness, and fatigue.
If multiple family members experience these symptoms at the same time or if they improve when away from home, it could indicate a CO leak. CO detectors installed in homes can provide an early warning of dangerous levels of CO.
Common Furnace Problems: Watch Out Today
If you run into any of these common furnace problems in Nashville, there are options for you.
Are you searching for HVAC services in Nashville? Lanham Mechanical Contractors has been providing exceptional customer service for over 30 years.
Contact us today for all the help you need.
