Insufficient Heat From Your Gas Or Oil Furnace? 3 Possible Repair Issues
Gas furnaces are often favored by homeowners because of their proven ability to produce efficient, comfortable heat. But like any high-use appliance, issues can arise that cause natural gas, propane, and fuel oil furnaces to operate with reduced efficiency. As the rate of efficiency falls, homeowners often notice that their homes are less comfortable in warmth than they once did.
While aging can be a factor in gas furnace efficiency, poor maintenance and developing repair issues are more likely to be the cause of an increasingly inefficient production of heat. Homeowners who are noticing that their gas or oil furnaces are not warming their home as efficiently as they once did may find the following information helpful.
Burner issues
Gas and oil furnaces produce heat by burning petroleum fuels in a burner system. The heat produced by the burning process is then moved throughout the home using the fan and duct system. Over time, residue produced during the burning process can collect on the burner orifices forming tiny clogs that reduce the amount of fuel available during each burn cycle.
Dirty or clogged burner systems typically force oil and gas furnaces to cycle more frequently, as the furnace tries to compensate. Increased cycling attempts will result in a less comfortable home and higher fuel consumption, especially during the coldest winter months. Homeowners who believe they may be experiencing this type of burner system problem should consider having their furnace assessed and repaired by a trusted heating services technician as soon as possible.
Fan issues
The blower fan system can also impact the efficiency of a gas furnace, particularly when the blades, belts, or bearings have become worn or damaged. The electrical motors and switches that control fan operation can also experience wear or damage to render them unable to move air through the ducts as efficiently as they should.
In addition to wear, the blower fan system can also be affected by dust and dirt that settle onto moving parts and begin to impair their movement and ability to operate efficiently. Homeowners can help to avoid this type of wear by changing their HVAC filters regularly, keeping components clean, and scheduling annual service visits with a heating repair contractor who can locate and replace worn parts and components before they fail.
Duct issues
Gas and oil furnaces, like those powered by electricity, can lose much of their efficiency if their duct system becomes damaged or clogged. Obstructions inside the ducts can block the flow of heated air and result in increased energy costs as the HVAC system struggles by working harder to move air.
In addition to damage, holes or leaks in the ducts can interrupt the flow of air and result in less comfort and higher energy bills. Homeowners with older or damaged duct systems can often recoup lost efficiency and comfort by having them inspected and repaired by a reputable heating repair contractor.
For more information about heating repair, contact a local HVAC contractor.
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