Top 7 Furnace Problems in Winter

When the winter arrives it seems like HVAC problems multiply. This is because when temperatures drop the demands on the heating system increase. And a bunch of problems start to arise that might require furnace repair in Cupertino, CA. Here are some of the most common problems to watch out for in winter.

1. Frozen Pipes

Freezing temperatures most often occur from December to February. And while daytime temperatures seem relatively mild, temperatures can easily pop below freezing at night. And as soon as the sun goes down, pipes can quickly freeze over and cause pressure buildup that bursts the pipes. The resultant flooding isn’t something homeowners want to deal with. It can damage floors, walls, carpets, furnishings, and the HVAC system.

2. Uneven Air Distribution

Blocked ducts and vents can cause uneven airflow. In some cases, the occupants in the home accidentally close off the air returns. Or they might get blocked by furniture. These are easy fixes. But it could also be a season’s worth of dust and dog hair trapped in the system and causing blockages. This can cause certain areas of the home to feel like an icebox while others turn into a sauna.

3. Clogged Air Filters

Air filters are another common problem during peak usage. In the milder seasons of spring and fall, it isn’t as likely for the filters to clog up every month. But in winter and summer, when the HVAC system is in constant use, it is vital to keep an eye on all of the air filters and swap them out when they get clogged. This will facilitate airflow and keep both the heating and cooling systems in good repair all year long.

4. A Malfunctioning Thermostat

The thermostat is a small device that tells the HVAC system when to turn on and off. And while these devices are durable, they are not meant to be indestructible. If they are in an area of the home where there is heavy traffic they are likely to get bumped, knocked, and jostled around a little. Over time, the wires can come loose, the sensors can malfunction, and the chips can fail. And this will limit the thermostat’s ability to efficiently control the temperature in the home.

5. Flickering Pilot Light

There are two main reasons why a pilot light might flicker and fail. First, drafts can cause the light to go out. So it is important to make sure the vent cover is properly attached. Second, damaged or clogged flame sensors can trigger the pilot light to go out. A prompt cleaning or replacement is highly recommended for the latter.

6. Carbon Monoxide Leaks

The incomplete combustion of natural gas results in carbon monoxide. This toxic gas could be deadly if there is ever a leak. That is why it is so important to get routine service for the furnace, so a technician can check for leaks. It is also important to install carbon monoxide detectors around the home to help keep the occupants safe.

7. Damaged Furnaces

Furnaces and heat pumps require regular maintenance to continue operating in top shape. This is why it is so important to keep up with furnace repair in Cupertino, CA. Technicians can spot problems when they start small and prevent further damage to the entire unit.