When temperatures start dipping and sunlight hours dwindle, your home's furnace will keep your household safe, cozy, and comfortable. With increased use, however, comes the potential for operational problems that may jeopardize efficiency. Below are three common wintertime furnace repair issues and how an HVAC maintenance professional will address them.

A Guide to Common Winter Furnace Repairs

1. Broken Thermostat

The thermostat is the control center for your furnace. It allows you to set and maintain the temperature of the entire home. When a thermostat isn't working as it should, your home may feel too hot or too cold, or it may fail to engage when you set it.

A nonresponsive thermostat could be the result of dead batteries. For anything more serious, contact an HVAC professional. They’ll inspect the device and repair or replace it so your household stays warm and comfortable.

2. Clogged Air Filter

The air filter catches the dirt, dust, dander, and debris that circulate through the air and pass through the furnace. During periods of heavy use, the filter may become overloaded with buildup, leading to clogs that compromise air quality and warm-air output. Restricted airflow also stresses furnaces and results in higher heating costs.

If you're unsure of how to change the air filter, an HVAC professional will handle this task for you. Fortunately, it's a quick and easy fix. Always turn off your furnace before replacing a clogged filter.

3. Faulty Pilot Light

The pilot light supplies the flame needed to light the burners of the furnace on demand. A pilot light that frequently goes out or often flickers and wanes can be a potential safety hazard. A dirty or broken sensor may be at fault. An HVAC technician will diagnose problems with your pilot light and clean or replace the sensor if necessary to ensure a dependable flame.

When you need furnace repair in the Chattanooga, TN, area, the team at Malone Heating & Air is here for you. Since 1980, they’ve been providing a wide range of residential and commercial HVAC services. From installations and repairs to maintenance plans and air duct cleaning, they’re your one-stop resource for all your HVAC needs. Call (706) 259-9333 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website to request a free estimate.