As the temperatures start to warm up, many of us forget all about our furnace and heating system. While we may start to think about air conditioning, it is actually the right time to address any end of the heating system repairs. The stress of a cold winter can take a toll on any age of furnace, so it’s a good idea to ensure that your furnace is in tip top condition and ready for use if a cold snap occurs in spring. So, here we will explore some of the common end of winter furnace repair issues you need to address.
Dirty Burners
The burners are the point where the natural gas from the municipal line is burned to create a high temperature combustion gas that can heat the air. Burners can accumulate a layer of grime and dirt throughout its continual use in winter. This can restrict oxygen flow that is needed in order for the burner to ignite. If your burners struggle to light, sometimes go out, or you can hear a noise when the burner is trying to ignite, you need a service call to remove and clean the burner. You should never attempt this repair yourself, as the burner is connected to the natural gas line and should only be handled by an experienced professional.
Electronic Igniter Failure
Electronic igniters have started to become more commonplace as they replace the standing pilot light used in older furnaces. The igniter is used to start burning the gas supply coming from the burner. Igniters work in a similar way to light bulbs; current is passed through them to create a hot surface. Like a lightbulb, igniters have a limited lifespan and will not last anywhere near as long as a furnace. With repeated use during the winter, the igniter can burn out. Fortunately, an experienced repair technician can replace a failed igniter easily.
Bent Fan Blades
The fan blades on the blower of your air handler can be damaged due to debris entering the cabinet. During winter, garden debris and other items can easily infiltrate the cabinet, and this can cause the fan blades to become bent. When the blades are misaligned, they can strike against the casing of the air handler and cause further damage. You may notice a metal on metal sound, or if the blades are coming in contact with other components, there may be a grinding noise. Unfortunately, the blades can be quite delicate, so you’ll need a technician with special tools to correct the blade alignment without accidentally bending them back too far.
Although it can be tempting to try to fix any end of season repair issues, you should not tamper with any appliance that is connected to your gas line. This includes your gas powered furnace. There is a great potential for carbon monoxide exposure, fire or even explosion with improper handling, so if you want to ensure that your furnace is in great condition, you should call in an experienced professional.