Common Furnace / AC Issues

Greg Schomburg • November 16, 2013

Platte City HVAC / Heating & Cooling

We see some of the same issues come up fairly regularly on our service trips. Some of the most common issues with furnaces and their resolutions are discussed below.

1.    Carbon monoxide leaks. It’s one of the most dangerous issues with malfunctioning HVAC equipment. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas that can cause physical harm and even death.  A leakage occurs when something in the furnace fails and the gas is pumped throughout the duct work.

When there are low levels of the gas in the air, people exposed to it will usually have symptoms similar to the flu, including sleepiness. More serious levels can be lethal before you are aware of what’s happened.

It is recommended to place a carbon monoxide detector near the furnace. It’s wise to have several carbon monoxide detectors around the house because there can be more than one source of the gas, such as gas stoves, generators and other gasoline powered equipment and vehicles.

HVAC professionals should have more sensitive and more accurate detectors than can be purchased by consumers. The Schomburg professionals always will. It’s typical to check carbon monoxide levels during any visit from an HVAC professional.

2.    Fаultу combustion chambers (also sometimes called heat exchangers) can be areas of concern as well. When leaky, they pose a serious threat to life. If a crack is identified, the unit should not be used again – even it’s the middle of winter.

It’s a good idea to visually inspect the area for cracks and rust if you can identify the chamber. Clean the area of dust and debris as well. If you find a crack, turn off the gas immediately and begin the process to replace the unit.

When they have to be replaced, there’s little room for error. It’s best to have it inspected professionally once or twice a year and serviced by a professional. HVAC professionals will sometimes have infrared equipment that can detect weaknesses in the area.  Often a replacement part is not available and the whole furnace has to be replaced.

Most importantly, homeowners will often forget to inspect for this issue annually, but it’s always on the list of things to check for an HVAC professional. It’s one of the reason we believe in and recommend our preventative maintenance service (Comfort Club).

3.    Тhе lаst item of particular concern is the thermocouple. The primary function of this safety shut off mechanism is to turn off the gas if the pilot light goes out to prevent gas build up.

Pushing the pilot light reset button may make it relight. If it doesn’t come back on, it needs to be replaced.

When looking at your Platte City HVAC unit or making any adjustments, always check for and follow the manufacturers guidelines.

HVAC units are not only the most expensive appliance in homes, they can directly affect the life and well being of the family living there.

Preventive Maintenance: Extending the Life of Your HVAC System

December 18, 2023
The HVAC system is tasked with keeping your home comfortable is often a significant investment. Like any major appliance, it requires regular care to operate at its best. At Schomburg Heating and Cooling, we believe that preventive maintenance is key to extending the lifespan of your HVAC system, ensuring it runs efficiently and reliably year-round. Improved Efficiency and Lower Energy Bills: Regular maintenance helps your HVAC system run more efficiently. When components are clean and in good working order, the system doesn’t need to work as hard to heat or cool your home, which lowers energy bills and reduces environmental impact. Extended Equipment Lifespan: An HVAC system that is well-maintained experiences less wear and tear, reducing the likelihood of premature breakdowns. Regular check-ups can significantly extend the life of your system, delaying the need for costly replacements. Enhanced Air Quality: HVAC systems play crucial roles in maintaining indoor air quality. Routine maintenance can include cleaning or replacing air filters and cleaning ducts and vents, which helps to keep the air in your home clean and free from allergens and pollutants. Early Detection of Issues: Preventive maintenance allows for early detection of potential problems. Technicians can identify and address small issues before they escalate into major repairs, saving you time and money in the long run. Routine maintenance ensures the safe operation of your HVAC system. This is particularly important for systems that rely on gas or oil, as it helps prevent carbon monoxide leaks and other hazardous conditions. Join Our Comfort Club Today At Schomburg Heating and Cooling, we are committed to helping you get the most out of your HVAC system. Investing in regular preventive maintenance is the best way to ensure your system is efficient, safe, and reliable. Contact us today to learn more about our maintenance services and how we can help extend the life of your HVAC system. Don’t wait for a breakdown. Schedule your HVAC preventive maintenance with Schomburg Heating and Cooling today and enjoy peace of mind all year long.

Furnace Safety 101: Essential Tips to Keep Your Home Safe and Warm

November 22, 2023
As the chilly months approach, keeping our homes warm becomes a priority. While furnaces play a crucial role in this, it's vital to remember that safety is paramount when operating any heating system. At Schomburg Heating and Cooling, we're dedicated to keeping your home comfortably warm and ensuring it's safe. This blog post will cover essential furnace safety tips to help you enjoy a warm, risk-free winter season. Regular Maintenance and Inspection: The cornerstone of furnace safety is regular maintenance and inspection. An annual check-up by a professional technician can detect and fix potential issues like gas leaks, faulty wiring, or blocked vents before they become hazardous. This preventive approach not only ensures safety but can also extend the life of your furnace. Keep the Area Around the Furnace Clear: Clutter should never be stored near the furnace. Keep the area around your heating system clear of items like paper, cloth, and chemicals. A clutter-free space around the furnace minimizes the risk of fire. Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be lethal. Since furnaces can produce CO, it's crucial to have carbon monoxide detectors installed in your home, particularly near sleeping areas. Test the detectors regularly and replace batteries as needed. Check Your Furnace Filter Regularly: A dirty or clogged furnace filter reduces efficiency and poses a fire risk. Check your furnace filters regularly and replace them as required. This simple step can significantly improve safety and operational efficiency. Ensure Proper Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial for safe furnace operation. Ensure that vents are not blocked by furniture, curtains, or other objects. Regularly inspect outdoor ducts to ensure they're clear from debris, snow, or ice. Be Aware of Unusual Noises or Smells: If you notice unusual noises like banging, whistling, or rattling from your furnace, or if you detect odd smells like burning or gas, shut off the unit immediately and call a professional. These could be signs of a serious problem. Contact Schomburg Heating & Cooling Today! Furnace safety is critical to home maintenance, especially during the colder months. By following these essential tips, you can ensure that your home remains a safe and warm haven. Remember, regular maintenance by qualified professionals like those at Schomburg Heating and Cooling is the best way to keep your furnace running safely and efficiently. Contact Schomburg Heating and Cooling today for professional furnace maintenance and safety inspections. Let us help you keep your home safe and warm this winter.

Maximize Comfort and Efficiency: The Benefits of Programmable Thermostats

October 20, 2023
In today's world, where efficiency and convenience are paramount, homeowners are constantly seeking ways to improve their living experience while also being mindful of energy consumption and costs. Programmable thermostats are a remarkable innovation in this regard. At Schomburg Heating and Cooling, we know the impact of staying comfortable in your home while also keeping energy bills in check. In this blog, we'll explore the numerous benefits of programmable thermostats and why they might be the perfect addition to your home. Enhanced Comfort Control: Programmable thermostats allow you to tailor your home's heating and cooling schedule to your lifestyle. You can set different temperatures for different times of the day. For example, you might prefer a cooler temperature when asleep and a warmer setting when you're home and active. This personalized control ensures your home is always at your ideal comfort level. Energy and Cost Savings: The most significant advantages of programmable thermostats is the potential for energy savings. By automatically adjusting the temperature when you're not home or when you don't need as much heating or cooling, these thermostats reduce energy usage, which translates to lower utility bills. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, you can save as much as 10% a year on heating and cooling by turning your thermostat back 7°-10°F for 8 hours a day from its standard setting. Convenience and Ease of Use: Modern programmable thermostats offer incredible ease of use and convenience. Many models come with user-friendly interfaces, making setting and adjusting your heating and cooling schedule simple. Additionally, with advancements in technology, some thermostats can be controlled remotely via smartphone apps, allowing you to adjust settings even when you're away from home. Reducing Wear and Tear on HVAC Systems: By maintaining consistent temperature settings, programmable thermostats help in reducing the constant cycling of your HVAC system. This not only conserves energy but also minimizes wear and tear on your system, potentially extending its lifespan and reducing the need for frequent repairs. Environmental Impact: Reducing energy consumption isn't just good for your wallet; it's also beneficial for the environment. By optimizing how and when your HVAC system operates, programmable thermostats contribute to lower greenhouse gas emissions associated with energy production. Choose Parkville's Top HVAC Company Today! At Schomburg Heating and Cooling, we're committed to helping you find the best solutions for your home's heating and cooling needs. Programmable thermostats are a smart investment that offers comfort, convenience, and cost savings. If you're considering upgrading your thermostat or have questions about heating and cooling solutions, our team of experts is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can enhance the comfort and efficiency of your home. Ready to upgrade to a programmable thermostat or need more information? Contact Schomburg Heating and Cooling today!
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