As temperatures dip in McKinney, Texas, colder weather puts more demand on furnaces. If your furnace is not heating properly, there are several ways to investigate its poor performance. Some problems can be remedied by homeowners. Others are best left to a professional heating, ventilation and air conditioning contractor.
Five Common Furnace Problems
1. The primary reason that an HVAC system stops working is a dirty filter. Filters keep airborne particulates from circulating through the system. The unit may cycle on and off more frequently, overtaxing the compressor. You may notice poor air flow and higher heating bills. Ultimately, the unit stops working, and you are faced with major repairs. For best results, clean or change the filter according to the manufacturer’s directions.
2. Incomplete combustion produces carbon monoxide gas. Carbon monoxide, odorless and colorless, can poison people and pets. For safety, install carbon monoxide detectors and alarms to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
3. A poorly calibrated thermostat can cause a heater to cycle on and off irregularly. Have your HVAC contractor calibrate the thermostat for better temperature control.
4. Noises occur for a number of reasons. First, check the fan belts. If loose or worn belts are not the problem, ask your HVAC contractor to check the entire unit as part of a seasonal tune-up.
5. One of the most common problems people experience in the winter is dry air. Your HVAC contractor can evaluate the quality of your home’s indoor air. Humidifiers put moisture back into the dry winter air. Your contractor may recommend air quality products to ensure that the air in your home is fresh and clean throughout the year.
Importance of Preventive Maintenance
Seasonal tune-ups examine all elements of a heating and cooling system. Correcting small problems before they become big minimizes the occurrence of breakdowns.
Bill Joplin’s Air Conditioning and Heating of McKinney, Texas, provides preventive maintenance, routine repairs, new installations and 24-hour emergency service for all of Collin County and nearby communities including Plano and Prosper. If your furnace is under-performing, call 469-846-8339 to schedule a winter tune-up and a free evaluation of your home heating needs.
