Furnaces are the heart of every home during the cold Winnipeg winter. Yet, like all mechanical systems, they can develop issues over time. Understanding the most common furnace problems helps you troubleshoot quickly and decide when to call a professional HVAC technician.
The most basic (and frustrating) issue is a furnace that won’t start. Common culprits include tripped breakers, a faulty thermostat, or safety switches shutting the unit down. Always check power sources and thermostat settings first.
When your furnace runs but the air isn’t warm, the issue might be a dirty air filter, an overheated system shutting down burners, or problems with the ignition system. This is one of the top reasons homeowners call for service.
If the furnace turns on for only a few minutes before shutting down, it could be caused by a clogged filter, improper airflow, or thermostat misplacement. Short cycling wastes energy and adds stress to components.
Banging, grinding, or squealing noises are warning signs. They often indicate loose parts, worn bearings, or blower motor issues. Ignoring unusual sounds can lead to expensive breakdowns.
When air barely comes out of vents, the blower motor, belt, or ductwork may be the problem. Restricted airflow makes the furnace work harder, lowering efficiency and comfort.
Older furnaces rely on a standing pilot light, while modern units use electronic ignition. If these systems fail, the burners won’t ignite, leaving your home cold. Causes include dirty sensors, faulty igniters, or gas supply issues.
Sometimes the furnace is fine, but the thermostat isn’t sending the correct signal. Dead batteries, miscalibration, or wiring issues can cause the furnace to run incorrectly — or not at all.
If your furnace fan never shuts off, check the thermostat fan settings first. If that’s not the issue, it could point to a faulty limit switch or control board problem that requires professional repair.
When one room feels warm and another cold, blocked vents, duct leaks, or improper system sizing may be to blame. Uneven heating not only reduces comfort but also drives up energy bills.
A sudden spike in energy costs often signals furnace inefficiency. Dirty filters, aging parts, or poor maintenance force the system to consume more energy to deliver the same comfort.
While homeowners can perform basic checks (thermostat, filters, breaker switches), most furnace problems require professional tools and expertise. Calling a licensed Winnipeg HVAC company ensures:
- Safe handling of gas and electrical components
- Accurate diagnostics
- Prevention of costly breakdowns
- Longer equipment lifespan
These 10 common furnace problems are what Winnipeg homeowners encounter most often. By recognizing the signs early, you can address minor issues before they become major breakdowns.
If your furnace shows any of these symptoms, book a professional furnace repair in Winnipeg. A timely inspection will keep your home safe, warm, and energy-efficient all winter.
