There are certain issues that plague HVAC systems that are well-known among homeowners. But for those who have a gas-powered furnace in their homes, there’s a particular set of issues that affect only gas furnaces.
Gas furnace issues should never be ignored. Running a gas furnace with an existing issue is not only a potential safety issue but will also drive up your energy bills and possibly make the problem worse. Homeowners must be aware of the signs that a gas furnace is in trouble. Here are 4 of the most common furnace repairs that occur specifically in gas furnaces.
1. A Cracked Heat Exchanger
The heat exchanger is an important component that’s only found in gas furnaces. This is what helps turn combusted fuel into hot air that warms your home. Made of metal, the heat exchanger is subject to a lot of wear and tear as it bends, contracts, and expands every time you run your furnace. Over time, microscopic cracks can develop.
Because the heat exchanger houses the dangerous combustion gases that are produced when a furnace burns natural gas, there’s a risk that carbon monoxide (CO) can enter your home’s air via these small cracks. It’s essential to have CO detectors installed in your home if you have a gas furnace.
2. Booming Noise
A booming noise from a furnace is a startling one indeed. This noise sounds like a mini explosion because that’s exactly what it is. The booming sound is usually caused by a delay in the ignition of the gas either due to dirty burners, low gas pressure, or faulty equipment. This is something that should be checked out ASAP.
3. Failed Ignition
In a gas furnace, there’s either a standing pilot light or an electronic ignition system that ignites the gas jets on the burners. Sometimes these parts can run into trouble and not work properly. Furnaces have a built-in safety mechanism that kicks in when issues arise with the ignition process. Your furnace won’t turn on at all if there’s an issue.
4. The Smell of Gas
As we mentioned above, carbon monoxide leaks are a rare but potential issue with gas furnaces. Although natural gas is colorless and odorless, utility companies add a harmless chemical called mercaptan to natural gas so that homeowners can detect if there’s a leak in their homes.
Mercaptan has a distinctive odor that smells like sulfur or rotten eggs. If you ever detect this scent in your home, it’s a sign that there’s a gas leak in your home. You should evacuate your home immediately and contact emergency services.
The Bottom Line
A faulty furnace during a cold Syracuse winter is a serious problem. Our NATE-certified technicians are experienced and go through ongoing training to ensure they can quickly and accurately solve your heating problems. Rely on us to get your heat back on!
Live a happier, healthier, and more comfortable life—trust Breathe Easy of CNY Heating & Cooling for your furnace repairs in Syracuse, NY! We are consumers too! Contact us today!