As the weather gets colder, a reliable furnace is a must-have. But like any appliance, furnaces can have their quirks. Knowing a bit about troubleshooting can save you time and money before you need to call a pro. This guide will help you tackle common furnace problems and figure out when it’s time to call a furnace repair expert in Calgary.

Common Furnace Problems and Easy Fixes

Here are some of the most common furnace issues homeowners face and what you can do about them:

1. Furnace Won’t Turn On

A furnace that won’t start is a common problem, especially when the weather turns cold. Before opting a professional HVAC services, try these quick checks:

• Thermostat: Make sure it’s set to “heat” and the temperature is higher than the room temperature.
• Power: Check if the furnace is getting power. Reset the circuit breaker if needed.
• Pilot Light: If your furnace has one, check if it’s lit. You might need to relight it or call a pro if you’re unsure.

If these steps don’t fix the issue, it’s time to call JPS Furnace and Air Conditioning for help.

2. Furnace Blowing Cold Air

When your furnace is blowing cold air, it could be a sign of a problem with your thermostat, pilot light, or dirty filters. Here’s what to do:

• Thermostat: Double-check the settings to make sure it’s set correctly.
• Air Filter: A dirty filter can restrict airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and blow cold air. Replace or clean the filter.
• Pilot Light: For gas furnaces, check if the pilot light is out or malfunctioning. Relight it if needed.

If none of these solutions work, there might be a deeper mechanical issue that requires professional furnace repair.

3. Unusual Furnace Noises

Strange sounds coming from your furnace—like banging, rattling, or screeching—are red flags that something’s wrong. Here’s what they might mean:

• Banging: This could be due to a delayed ignition, often caused by a dirty burner or igniter. A professional cleaning is needed.
• Rattling: Loose screws or parts might be the culprit. Tighten them if you’re comfortable, or call a technician.
• Screeching: This usually means a worn-out belt or a failing motor.

Don’t ignore these noises. They could signal more serious problems later.

4. Furnace Cycling On and Off Frequently

A furnace that turns on and off too often (called short cycling) can lead to higher energy bills and make your home uncomfortable. Here’s what to check:

• Dirty Filters: As we mentioned, dirty filters can cause overheating, leading to short cycling.
• Thermostat Placement: If your thermostat is near a heat source, it might think the room is warmer than it actually is, causing the furnace to turn off too soon. Try moving it to a different spot.
• Airflow Issues: Blocked vents or ducts can also cause short cycling. Make sure all vents and registers are clear.

Short cycling can stress your furnace. If these quick fixes don’t help, call an HVAC pro to take a look.

5. Pilot Light or Ignition Issues

If your furnace uses a pilot light or electronic ignition, you might encounter problems with these components over time. A pilot light that keeps going out or an ignition system that fails to start the furnace could signal a need for repairs.

Here are some things you can try:

• Check for Drafts: A draft can blow out a pilot light. Close nearby windows and doors.
• Inspect the Gas Supply: Make sure the gas line is open and supplying fuel to the furnace.

If you’re not comfortable working with gas or ignition systems, it’s best to call a technician from JPS Furnace and Air Conditioning for safe and effective repairs.

When to Call for Professional Furnace Repairs

While many furnace issues can be fixed with simple solutions, others require professional expertise. Here’s when to call a trusted service provider:

• Persistent Problems: If you’ve tried the above fixes and the problem continues, it’s time to call a professional.
• Carbon Monoxide Risks: If your carbon monoxide detector goes off or you suspect a gas leak, turn off your furnace and call a professional immediately. These issues can be dangerous.
• Old Furnace: If your furnace is over 15 years old and needs frequent repairs, it might be time for a replacement.

Choosing the Right HVAC Professionals

When it comes to furnace repairs, choosing a reliable and experienced team is important. JPS Furnace and Air Conditioning has been serving the Calgary region for years, offering expert HVAC services including furnace repair, maintenance, and replacement.

Whether you need minor repairs, troubleshooting, or a complete system overhaul, you can trust our team to provide high-quality service tailored to your needs.

Conclusion

Maintaining your furnace doesn’t have to be complicated. By addressing minor issues early and knowing when to call for professional repairs, you can keep your home warm and your furnace running smoothly. Whether it’s basic fixes like cleaning filters and adjusting thermostats or more complex issues like ignition failure, this guide can help you diagnose common furnace problems.