When your furnace isn’t working, it’s important to troubleshoot the problem as soon as possible. One common issue is a blown fuse. You can check this by checking the fuse box for a blown fuse. You’ll need to replace the fuse if it’s blown. As a homeowner, a gas furnace or heat pump may exhibit warning signs that you should be able to spot. From your heating system making noises to your energy bill climbing, there are common issues.
Another common issue is improper airflow. You can check this by checking the airflow indicator on the furnace. If the airflow is low, you may need to clean the air filters or have the ductwork inspected.
Finally, you can inspect the furnace blower motor to ensure it is running smoothly and there is no debris blocking it. If debris is blocking the motor, you can clean it or have it cleaned by a professional. So whether you’re wondering “how long do furnaces last” or you’re curious about why your blower isn’t blowing, here’s what you should know.
Check your furnace fuse
If your old furnace isn’t working, the first thing you should do is check the fuse. The fuse is usually a small, cylindrical component found in the electrical panel. Replace the fuse with a new one of the same size and type if it has blown.
If the fuse is okay, there are a few other things you can check:
-Make sure the furnace switch is in the “on” position
-Make sure the thermostat is set to “heat.”
-Make sure the room is warm enough for the furnace to turn on
-Make sure the furnace filter is clean
-Make sure the furnace is vented correctly
If none of those inspections helps you uncover a problem, you might want to look at other common culprits to determine why your furnace isn’t performing well.
Check for proper airflow
If your new furnace or old furnace is not blowing warm air, you should first check the filter. A dirty filter can cause your furnace to work harder and can even lead to a breakdown. If the filter is dirty, replace it and see if that solves the problem.
If the filter is not the problem, the next thing you should check is the airflow. Furnaces need proper airflow to operate efficiently. You can check the airflow by feeling the air coming out of the vents. If the air is hot, the airflow is good. If the air is cold, the airflow is not good. You can also check the airflow by checking the air temperature coming out of the furnace. If the air is hot, the airflow is good. If the air is cold, the airflow is not good.
If the airflow is not good, you may need to clean the furnace’s air ducts. You can do this by using a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment. Be sure to wear a dust mask while cleaning the ducts.
If the airflow is still not good, you may need your furnace serviced.
Inspect the ductwork
If your older furnace is not working, the first thing you should do is inspect the ductwork. Ensure that the ducts are not blocked and that there is no dust or other debris build-up. If you find any blockages, clear them as best and then test the furnace again.
If the furnace still does not work, you may need to call in a professional to troubleshoot the issue. A professional will determine if there is a problem with the furnace maintenance itself or with the ductwork. They will also be able to recommend the best course of action for repairing the problem.
Look at your furnace blower motor
The furnace blower motor is responsible for circulating air throughout the home. If it is not running smoothly or there is debris blocking it, the furnace will not be able to heat the house properly. Here is how to troubleshoot a furnace blower motor:
1. Inspect the blower motor to make sure it runs smoothly, and there is no debris blocking it.
2. If the blower motor is not running smoothly, clean it or replace it.
3. If there is debris blocking the blower motor, remove it.
It helps to work with an HVAC technician, contractor, or licensed professional in many cases.
How long do furnaces last?
If it’s well-maintained or a newer version, the average lifespan of a furnace ranges between 15-20 years. A vital component of the lifespan of a furnace is proper care.
If your furnace is not heating your home sufficiently or at all, you can do a few things to troubleshoot the problem. First, ensure the furnace is turned on and that the thermostat is set to the correct temperature. If the furnace is on and the thermostat is set correctly, something may be blocking the airflow, such as a dirty air filter. You can check the air filter by removing it and holding it up to the light. If it is dirty, it should be replaced. If the air filter is not dirty, there may be a problem with the furnace work itself. In this case, you should call a technician to troubleshoot the problem.
Frequent repairs can help improve energy efficiency and extend the furnace’s life. It’s a good idea to understand your average furnace lifespan and incorporate a number of factors into repairs or replacements.
