Top Causes of Furnace Breakdowns During Edmonton Winters

Edmonton is one of the coldest capitals in the country, and whether we are dealing with a cold snap or heading into winter, your furnace will be working overtime for at least a few months a year. As the best furnace repair company in Edmonton, we have seen our fair share of furnace breakdowns. Like most equipment breakdowns, these are often predictable and preventable. So, we thought we should help out our clients and showcase the main causes of furnace breakdowns that we see here in Edmonton, AB and the surrounding area. 

Lack of Maintenance 

Just like your vehicle, your furnace requires annual maintenance to ensure it operates at peak performance. We have seen many clients over the years ignore this maintenance, and small issues are often overlooked, which can later become major problems. Our maintenance services include our certified HVAC technicians inspecting all components and parts of your furnace, including the burner, air handler, and ducts. We will also provide a comprehensive health report that helps you plan for future expenses and replacements. 

Air Filter Issues 

Air filters may seem like a simple thing, but replacing and installing your air filter correctly is essential to preventing issues with your furnace. If your air filter is dirty or old, your furnace will have to work harder to move air through the unit, and this extra work can lead to breakdowns over time. You should change your air filter at least every 90 days. If you have a busier household with pet dander or children, consider changing it at least every 60 days. 

A Failing Thermostat

For those with older homes or those who are undertaking DIY upgrades for their thermostats, we have seen numerous issues with thermostats over the years. Most of these thermostats will eventually fail and be unable to regulate the home's temperature. While others will fully fail and cannot turn the furnace on when you need it most. Fortunately, our HVAC technicians can provide a straightforward replacement for the vast majority of these issues, ensuring that your furnace operates as it should. 

Worn-out Components

As furnaces age, their components start to age as well. There are a few common components that can fail, which can lead to breakdowns, including the blower motor, belts and bearings. Once these parts start to fail, the entire system will shut down and require a repair. Generally, we see the motor go, but the belts are also a common issue that can be easily replaced. To help prevent these breakdowns, annual maintenance can help catch wear and tear and provide replacements before a break occurs. 

Ignition or Pilot Light Issues 

For those with a natural gas furnace, the ignition or pilot light is one of the most common issues that can lead to a breakdown of the entire system. The reason for this is pretty simple: if there is no ignition, the furnace itself will not light and start up. Issues such as dirt or debris on the pilot light or a faulty sensor can all lead to a breakdown. Luckily, the replacement cost for these parts is low, and it is an easy fix to get the furnace back up and running. 

Electrical Issues 

Finally, one of the other common issues that can cause a furnace breakdown is an electrical connection problem to or from the furnace. Electrical lines within the home are essential for components like the thermostat and air blower, and we have seen everything from faulty wiring to a tripped circuit breaker, which can lead to issues with the furnace itself. These fixes can be a little more complicated, depending on the exact location, but our furnace technicians can typically take care of the fix in-house. 

Furnaces are fickle creatures, and whether you have a new Lennox system or have an older Rheem, our team of HVAC experts can work with you to prevent breakdowns before they happen. These common causes are all preventable with regular maintenance visits from a seasoned furnace contractor. 

If you are facing a furnace breakdown or need a much overdue annual maintenance visit, now is the time to reach out to Edmonton Furnace and Carpet Care. With more than a decade of professional experience, our HVAC technicians can provide you with the level of service that you deserve here in Oil Country and ensure that your furnace is ready to take on this winter.