subject: Simple Tips on Furnace Repair [print this page] Simple Tips on Furnace Repair Simple Tips on Furnace Repair
When your furnace gives you trouble, you need not always fall back on a professional to handle the repair work. There are small things that you can fix on your own. While furnace repair done by a professional has its benefits, there are times when you might have to rely on your understanding of the furnace to handle it. Here's a small guide that will help you look for problem areas so that you can repair the furnace on your own occasionally:
Is your furnace getting sufficient heat supply?
Carefully examine the furnace switch or main breaker and the fuse. While you are doing this, if the fuse trips, then it is best call a professional for assistance. It is possible that the thermostat has been set at a low calibration and the furnace is unable to activate. Raising the thermostat over 5 degrees can resolve this problem.
A dirty filter could be the reason why the furnace is not getting adequate heat. Sometimes a filter that has been damaged by grime will need to be replaced. If the filter appears to be dirty but is otherwise in fine condition, then a good cleaning will do the job. The blower belt is another important component, and if it is broken or loose, the furnace will not function. A belt that has come out of its place can be carefully adjusted back.
When your furnace doesn't function at all
In most cases, when a furnace does not function at all, the reason is a power shortage. If there is no power supply to the furnace, then a tripped circuit breaker or a damaged fuse can be the problem. A motor overload can cause the furnace to stop functioning temporarily and if this appears to be the problem, you can reset the motor after waiting for thirty minutes. Typically, resetting the motor once fixes the problem, however you may have to try a few times.
Repeated cycling within the furnace
Another important aspect of furnace repair is to look at the blower assembly. Sometimes, a clogged blower can overheat the furnace and affect its performance. The blowers and motors, which have oil ducts, will have to be lubricated adequately in order to get the motor to function properly.
Blower running continuously
Chances are that when the blower is running endlessly, the blower control has been set incorrectly. You can reset the blower from the switched on arrangement to auto arrangement. It is possible that while exploring the problem area in your furnace, you may come across relays that appear to be faulty. It is best to leave this aspect of furnace repair to a professional.
A furnace may appear to be quite intimidating to those who are unfamiliar with the equipment. While a professional is better qualified to carry out furnace repair and should be called when the need arises, having some knowledge of your furnace can often come in handy in case of unexpected furnace problems.
