With fall on the horizon, the cold weather won't be far behind. Because you rely on your furnace to keep your family safe and comfortable during winter, it's important that you keep it in top condition. Below, Mill Creek Heating, the premier HVAC repair service in Turner, OR, explains some of the most common furnace issues you might encounter. This information should alert you to problems and help you understand when to call in a professional.

4 Common Furnace Repair Issues

1. Dirty Filter

Furnace filters remove contaminants from the air and prevent dust from accumulating on the blower motor and fan blades. You should replace the filter every 60 to 90 days, or even more frequently if you are a smoker or pet owner. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and cause your HVAC system to work harder than it should. It can also lead to frequent cycling and not enough warm air.

2. Lack of Maintenance

The blower motor runs frequently during cold weather so it tends to get hot. Overheating can cause it to fail, so it must be able to dissipate heat effectively. Unfortunately, if the filter is clogged or missing, dust accumulates in and around the motor and acts as insulation, holding in the heat. It should be cleaned and tuned up annually to prevent overheating and breakdowns.

3. Ignition Problems

To ignite the gas that heats a gas furnace, modern HVAC systems use either an intermittent pilot—an electric spark that ignites the pilot light and then the burner—or a heating element like the filament of a light bulb. If something prevents the spark, such as dust or debris, or if the heating element wears out, your furnace won't ignite, and your home will stay cold.

4.  Faulty Thermostat

The thermostat reads indoor air temperatures and controls when the furnace turns on and how long it runs. Problems with your thermostat, such as taking inaccurate readings, can lead to temperatures that are uncomfortably hot or cold.

The furnace problems listed above are some of the most common HVAC repair issues homeowners face. If one or more of these sound familiar, contact Mill Creek Heating for assistance. They've been serving businesses and residents throughout Marion County since 2003, and in addition to repairs, they also install heating and air conditioning systems, heat pumps, and geothermal energy systems. Visit their website for valuable, money-saving specials or call (503) 749-1000 to schedule a consultation.