The Tri-Cities Furnace Repair,
Install, and Maintenance Experts
Did you know there’s a big difference between a furnace and an air handler? A furnace burns fuel to heat up a metal heat exchanger. In the Tri-Cities your furnace is likely burning natural gas to do so. But an air handler runs electricity through a metal coil we call a “heat strip”, which glows from the intense heat (like a toaster). Both appliances then blow air over their heated element and the air travels through the ducts to heat the home or building.
Due to the Tri-Cities averaging many weeks in the freezing temps, it’s not uncommon to see a furnace/air conditioner combination, but the heat pump/air handler combination is much more common. These days, heat pumps can run in nearly freezing temperatures, so we don’t have to turn on the air handler’s emergency heat strip nearly as much as we did in the past.
Need an emergency heater repair in Tri-Cities?
We’re here for your 24 Hour Comfort.
6 Common Furnace and Air Handler Problems
Dirty Air Filter
A dirty air filter forces your system to work harder to circulate the air throughout the ducts, which can cause your indoor unit to fail. It also drives up monthly energy costs.
Cracked Heat Exchanger
Cracks in a furnace heat exchange can be dangerous. Carbon monoxide can be released into the home, which is very toxic to breathe in and impossible to detect with our human senses. Most furnaces today have a safety shut off, but a cracked heat exchange will need to be fixed by a professional.
Slipped or Frayed Blower Belt
Many indoor units have belt-driven blower fans that are driven by a powerful electric motor. A belt connects the motor to the fan, and over time this belt can become cracked or loose, which can cause the belt to slip off and prevent the fan from spinning. A loud squeaking noise is an indicator of a loose belt.
Faulty Pilot Light or Electric Ignition
A faulty pilot light or electric ignition in a furnace will prevent the fuel from burning. An electric ignition is most common in new furnaces and will require the help of a professional to fix if broken.
Thermostat Malfunction
Make sure your thermostat isn’t forcing the fan to run 24/7. If your thermostat is in Heat mode make sure the Set temperature is higher than the current room temperature. Also, make sure the batteries haven’t died.
Worn Ball Bearings
Your blower motor assembly has ball bearings to make sure the fan rotates smoothly. If your furnace is several years old and you hear a scraping sound when the fan is on, the ball bearings are likely worn and need to be replaced.
The best way to avoid problems with your home’s most expensive appliance is to have scheduled maintenance on your heating system. But sometimes even regular service can’t prevent malfunctions. When your furnace or air handler isn’t working as it should, make sure to call a licensed professional.
Chinook Heating & Air has a team of highly trained technicians with the tools and knowledge to help keep your home or business warm and comfortable during cold winter months in the Tri-Cities. Our crew is honest and reliable, providing furnace repair and service 24 hours a day, even on weekends for emergencies.
Need an emergency heater repair in Tri-Cities?
We’re here for your 24 Hour Comfort.