Preparing for Summer

The most common type of heating system that homeowners use is one that uses an electric or gas furnace. A furnace plays an important role with such heating systems because without it in place, there would be no heat coming into the house. Due to the furnace being so important for the heating needs of a homeowner, it is usually the first part that a contractor inspects when the system isn't producing heat. Although other parts can contribute to heating problems when they malfunction, the furnace is the most common culprit of the problem. You will learn about the typical electric and gas furnace problems that might require the attention of a contractor by reading the content below.

Shorts in the Electrical Wiring

Electrical problems can have a bad impact on both a gas and electric panel, as both types need electricity. For example, a gas furnace doesn't produce heat by electrical elements, but it has to use electricity to come on just as an electric furnace does. Due to a furnace needing to be plugged into a power outlet, it can become problematic if the outlet doesn't work. One problem that an outlet might have is a short in the electrical wiring, which can cause the furnace to not work and pose a fire hazard at the same time. If a heating contractor believes that a power outlet is causing furnace problems, he or she might recommend calling an electrician to repair it unless he or she has the electrical skills to do it.

Issues with the Pilot Orifice

Pilot orifice problems are common when it comes to the inability to receive heat via a system that uses a gas furnace. For example, a dirty orifice is a problem because it can interfere with the pilots ability to ignite, which is required for heat to be produced. Usually a contractor can remove the dirt and reignite the pilot to repair then heating problem. Another thing that can go wrong is for the orifice to either become broken or bent up, which is possible with normal wear and tear. 

There is No Heat Flowing Through

When no heat flows through after turning the system on, it might mean that the furnace isn't working. It is possible that the furnace isn't plugged up or a circuit breaker isn't on or working. The furnace may have also stopped working because the parts are too worn out. Keep in mind that the blower fan and other parts of the system can be the culprit of the problem as well, which is why a contractor is needed. 

If your home heating isn't working, contact a heating repair company in your city.