When the temperatures start to drop and winter weather sets in, your household depends on the furnace to keep your home warm, comfortable, and safe. However, with increased furnace usage during the winter months comes a higher possibility for operational problems. Understanding some of these issues and their warning signs will ensure that you schedule prompt furnace repair before the furnace fails. Below, three common wintertime furnace concerns are discussed in more detail.

What Problems Can Occur With Furnaces During Winter?

1. Clogged Air Filters

The filter catches dust, dirt, dander, and other particles and helps the furnace pump clean air throughout the home. Because windows are closed during the winter, resulting in less air circulation, debris in the filter tends to build up faster. A clogged air filter can lead to the uneven distribution of heat and the production of unclean air, as well as more significant wear and tear on the furnace and higher heating costs. A heating repair professional will clean or replace your air filter and confirm that it's prepared to handle the demands of winter.

2. Broken Blower Belts

With more frequent winter use, the furnace belt between the blower and the motor is vulnerable to breakage. If this happens, the system will not be able to heat the home. High-pitched squealing or screeching sounds often accompany a broken belt. Fortunately, this is an easy fix that a furnace repair professional can complete by replacing the old belt with a new one.

3. Unresponsive Thermostats

The thermostat is the control center of your home's heating, telling the furnace when to come on and at what temperature to heat the house. Thermostats can fall victim to several different issues, ranging from dead batteries to faulty wiring. Any of these issues can prevent the thermostat from communicating with the furnace, which can result in no heat for your home. Check the temperature settings and replace the batteries, and if this doesn't resolve the problem, contact a furnace repair service.

When you need furnace repair in the St. Charles County, MO, area, trust the heating contractors at Air Rescue. They are a local, family-owned HVAC service provider offering repairs, installations, and maintenance of residential and commercial equipment. They are available for scheduled service during regular business hours as well as for after-hours emergency repairs. Call (636) 764-0700 or visit them online to schedule an appointment.