With the cold temperatures closing in, the last issue you want is a furnace on the fritz. There are a few reasons your heat may not be working, and troubleshooting will help you understand how to resolve the problems. Below are five common issues as well as how to tell when you can fix it or you need HVAC repair.

What Common Issues Do Furnaces Experience?

1. Dirty or Clogged Filters

One common problem that is easy to fix is a dirty or clogged filter. When filters need to be changed, they often interfere with airflow, which affects how comfortable your space is. Dirty filters also cause excessive wear and tear that will affect other components, as well as frequent cycling on and off. The best solution is to clean or change your filter every once a month.

2. Pilot Light Issues

If the pilot light keeps going out, you may have a few issues. First, the ignition may be the problem, which means HVAC repair is needed to replace the part. There may also be clogs or grime near the flame, which should be handled by an expert. Sometimes a drafty room may blow out the pilot light, so make sure windows and doors are closed and properly sealed.

3. Running Blower

A blower that seems to run nonstop may have an issue with the limit switch. Before calling an HVAC contractor, check that the thermostat is set to auto and that your temperatures and times are correct. If all of that is in place and the blower continues to go, you will need expert help to check parts.

4. Troublesome Thermostat

Sometimes the thermostat is not communicating with the furnace and can cause the heat to not kick on or to cycle repeatedly. For battery-operated setups, check that batteries are still in working condition. If your thermostat is wired and doesn’t seem to respond to your settings, you probably need a new one.

5. No Heat

Of course, very little to no heat is a clear sign of an issue. There may be a host of reasons behind this, from faulty thermostats and ignitions to poorly sized units for the space. If you have changed filters and cleaned the area, but the heat still has trouble, an HVAC technician should be called. Another way to prevent this problem, especially in the middle of winter, is to keep up with maintenance. Annual inspections will help you prevent major headaches.

For HVAC repair in Canandaigua, NY, call Bradford & Sons Electrical, Plumbing & Heating. Since 1975, their professional team has guaranteed efficient offerings to keep your heating running when you need it most. The family-owned company also offers everything from plumbing repair to electrician services for both residential and commercial customers. Call (585) 657 7309 for an HVAC repair appointment or visit them online for a full list of services.