3 Signs That Your Furnace Is Overheating And How To Manage The Problem

A furnace is crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor space as temperatures drop. That said, you will likely encounter system issues with years of continued use. When this happens, you may notice several indicators of a malfunction. In most cases, these include a rumbling sound from the basement, clanking noise, or an air duct odor. Note that of all issues you are likely to face, an overheating gas or electric furnace poses a fire hazard in the event of obstructed airflow, mechanical failure, or simple aging. In this piece, you'll learn additional warning signs of overheating, how to deal with the problems, and the importance of allowing an expert to remedy the situation before it worsens.

Recognize Danger Before It Strikes

There are a few telltale signs of an overheating unit. The first and most evident sign of an overheating furnace is a burning smell or the smell of hot metal or other components coming through the vents. Second, the unit can be very noisy and generate a variety of clunks and bangs. In such cases, a broken part, an overworked fan motor, or another failure could be to blame. Also, a loss of contact between wires and terminals increases the risk of overheating and other problems. Ultimately, when the temperature within the furnace gets too high, the safety mechanisms will activate, and the system will turn off. That said, the heater will try to warm your space before the safety mechanism cuts power again.

Deal With Overheating Problems

You must examine your unit more closely if any of these signs appear. Note that a lack of ventilation, component failure, or simply old age are common causes of an overheating furnace. Before doing anything, ensure that no furniture, carpets, or other household items cover any of the home's vents. Additionally, it is possible that the overheating furnace results from a clogged, dusty, or otherwise dirty air filter inside the appliance. Moreover, you can link poor airflow and an overheating furnace by checking the ductwork traveling to and from the unit.

Expert Consultation Needed 

Overheating could mean that your unit is too old. Remember, the furnace's parts will deteriorate with time, and some elements may have already begun to fail. So, if your unit has been in place longer than you can remember and is overheating, the best plan is to get in touch with a pro about replacing the old heating system. You can also have it assessed for seasonal energy efficiency rating and replace it if it falls below standards.

The best way to troubleshoot issues with a furnace that keeps overheating is to look for a heating service professional to help you handle it. With their expertise, you can find the cause of the problem sooner and ensure a speedy resolution to save your heating costs and increase the system's efficiency and longevity.

Contact a company like Johnson's  Heating &  Cooling to learn more. 

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