Does Northern California’s mild climate contribute to neglected furnaces? Maybe! When you live in a predictably cold region like Montana, for example, furnace maintenance is serious business. But living in a climate where freezing temperatures are a rarity, it’s easy to forget that furnace! Regular maintenance assures that your heater performs better and lasts longer, so it just makes sense, wherever you live. Let’s look at a few typical furnace problems, and what you can do before you call the professionals.

Control issues

If you’ve noticed your furnace isn’t turning on when the temperature in your home drops, or it doesn’t seem to hold the temperature correctly, a good starting place is to look at your thermostat. When was the last time the batteries were replaced? If you can’t remember, it’s probably time to replace them. You can also try to reset the thermostat according to the owner’s manual, if you’re up for this next step. If fresh batteries or a reset don’t correct the problem, we recommend contacting an HVAC professional.

Not enough heat

Inadequate heating, failure to produce heat, or overheating may be caused by a malfunctioning part in your heating system. It’s important to remember that gas-fired furnaces (typical in most Northern California homes), are a combustion appliance, which means they burn gas, similar to your car. A malfunction in the combustion process can present health and safety issues, as result of incomplete or inefficient burning. If this seems to be the case, seek professional advice from an HVAC contractor immediately. A good technician can diagnose the problem quickly and help you determine the best course of action.

Dirty and clogged filters

Filters are an essential part of your HVAC system. As air circulates throughout your home, the filter collects airborne dirt and debris before it returns to the furnace. Over time, that dirt and debris builds up on the filter, and will eventually affect the system airflow. A dirty or clogged filter causes the furnace blower to work harder – driving up your electricity use. So, CLEAN filters equate to better performance from your heating system. It’s best to change the filter twice a year, in Fall and again in Spring. If you can’t change the filter on your own, call a professional.

If your furnace issues continue even after troubleshooting, call a trained HVAC professional. Any heater, regardless of type or age, presents the risk of a fire or other gas-related safety hazards, so it’s important to have an expert check your unit for potential problems.

Of course, the best way to keep your furnace running efficiently is by signing up for regular heater maintenance. Set up an appointment so you won’t have to worry about finding an HVAC contractor during the peak season for repairs. Call us now if you need heater maintenance and repair for your home.