When the cold creeps in, you’re probably grateful that your furnace heats your home and keeps you and your family warm. However, not scheduling regular furnace tune-ups can result in a whole host of problems. One particular reason many people end up needing furnace repair services is a constantly running furnace.
A constantly running furnace is frustrating and can be very uncomfortable. It can even be unsafe in some cases. Malfunctioning gas furnaces can release toxic carbon monoxide gases, which are colorless and odorless but extremely dangerous to inhale. Therefore, if you’re having problems with a constantly running furnace, it’s best to contact furnace repair services as soon as possible.
These are some of the most common reasons for a constantly running furnace:
Thermostat Set Too High
Good news if you’re especially worried about furnace problems: your constantly running furnace might just be a result of a few incorrectly pressed buttons. Before you assume the furnace itself is the problem, follow these steps to make sure your thermostat isn’t the cause of your furnace running constantly:
Check your thermostat
Suppose it’s a chilly 23° outside, but your thermostat is set at a balmy 78°. In that case, your heating system is probably working too hard, meaning your furnace is running constantly to reach your desired temperature.
Turn it down a few degrees
Give your furnace a break and lower the temperature you’re using by a few degrees. Try this tip: set temperatures in the 60-68° range when you sleep. You can save on energy bills AND help your furnace out, plus slightly colder temperatures can even promote better sleep!
Keep an eye on your heating system
If the problem goes away a few hours after you turn down your heat, you may have located the reason your furnace is constantly running.
Dirty Air Filters
If your furnace continues to run even after you’ve adjusted the thermostat, you might have a dirty air filter in your furnace. Your heating system sucks in debris from the air. Over time, dust, dirt, and dander accumulate in your air filter. The good news? That’s what air filters are designed for, so a simple air filter replacement might be what you need to put a stop to your constantly running furnace. Furnace repair professionals will be able to replace your air filter in minutes. Keeping up on filter replacements can also improve your home’s air quality, meaning you and your loved ones will breathe easier, too.
Pilot Light Problems
If your furnace is older, you might have a pilot light signifying that the furnace is operating correctly. The pilot light should stay on at all times throughout the operation of the furnace. If your pilot light goes out, you’ll end up with your furnace constantly running but blowing out cool or cold air. Sometimes, you may be able to relight your own pilot light if you have the instructions for your furnace, but it can be a tricky task. It’s best to contact furnace service professionals so they can make sure your pilot light is doing its job properly.
Blower Motor Issues
Cold air blowing from a constantly running furnace isn’t always only caused by pilot light problems — it can also indicate your furnace has a faulty or clogged blower fan or blower motor. The blower motor and fan in your furnace are crucial because they are what circulate heated air throughout your home. Your furnace needs a functional blower motor and blower fan to operate. Don’t delay; make sure the problem is taken care of by HVAC contractors so that you don’t do further damage to your heating system.
Faulty Limit Switch
Another reason for your furnace running constantly might be its limit switch. In simple terms, the limit switch acts as a sensor for your furnace that partners with your thermostat to keep your furnace operating at the desired temperature. When you change your heat on your thermostat, the limit switch signals your furnace. However, if this switch is faulty, its signals might be getting mixed up, meaning you end up with your furnace constantly running no matter what you do with the thermostat.
Furnaces are like any other HVAC system and require routine maintenance to operate properly. If you find yourself wondering, “How often should I get my HVAC serviced?”, it’s probably been too long since you’ve last had technicians take a look at your furnace! If you need anything from routine furnace maintenance to furnace repair in Pittsburgh, PA, and the surrounding areas, contact Mister Sewer Plumbing & HVAC for prompt and professional service today.