Furnace Care Tips for Indianapolis This Fall

By: Brian Schutt | November 9, 2023

As the vibrant foliage of fall blankets Indianapolis, it’s crucial for homeowners to turn their attention to their furnaces. After a long, warm summer, your heating system may need some TLC to ensure it functions smoothly during the colder months. Here are the most common furnace issues you might encounter in Indianapolis this fall and how to effectively address them.

1. The Importance of Pre-Winter Maintenance

Often, furnaces are out of sight and out of mind during Indianapolis’s humid summers, leading to neglect in their care. However, as autumn rolls in, the importance of regular maintenance becomes clear. Scheduling an annual service with a professional is essential. This typically includes cleaning the unit, inspecting for wear and tear, and replacing filters – all vital for optimal furnace performance.

2. Clogged Filters – A Common Culprit

One of the simplest yet most overlooked issues in Indianapolis homes is a clogged furnace filter. Filters congested with dust, pollen, and other particles from summer can obstruct airflow and make your furnace work harder. Checking and replacing or cleaning your furnace filters every three months can significantly boost efficiency and prevent future problems.

3. Igniter Failure

One specific area that Indianapolis residents should pay attention to is the electronic igniter in their furnace. Unlike traditional pilot lights, electronic igniters use electricity to ignite the gas burner. However, these igniters can fail, leading to a non-functional furnace just when you need it most.

An electronic igniter typically fails due to a few common issues:

Age and Wear: Over time, the constant heating and cooling cycles can cause the igniter to crack or become brittle, leading to failure.

Electrical Issues: Problems with the furnace’s electrical system, such as short circuits or power surges, can damage the igniter.

Dirt and Debris: Accumulation of dirt can insulate the igniter, preventing it from reaching the necessary temperature to ignite the gas.

Improper Installation: If an igniter is not installed correctly, it may not function as intended.

If you suspect your electronic igniter is the source of your furnace woes, it’s often best to consult a professional. Attempting to replace or repair it yourself can be dangerous and may lead to further damage.

4. Thermostat Malfunctions

Thermostat issues are a common cause of furnace problems in Indianapolis homes. Several factors can contribute to thermostat malfunctions:

Battery Problems: Sometimes, the issue is as simple as dead batteries. Regularly checking and replacing them can prevent malfunctions.
Age and Wear: Older thermostats can lose their calibration over time, leading to incorrect temperature readings and inconsistent heating.
Wiring Issues: Faulty or aged wiring can lead to poor connections, causing the thermostat to lose its connection to the furnace.
Misplacement: A thermostat placed in direct sunlight, near windows, or other heat sources can misread the actual room temperature, leading to over or under-heating.
Compatibility Issues: Upgrading a furnace without considering the thermostat’s compatibility can lead to malfunctions. It’s crucial to ensure that the thermostat matches the furnace’s specifications.

Regularly inspecting and maintaining the thermostat can mitigate many of these issues, ensuring efficient and reliable heating.

5. Unusual Noises from the Furnace

The onset of chilly weather can bring forth strange noises from your furnace, a common concern in Indianapolis. These noises, whether they are rattling, banging, or whining sounds, often indicate a mechanical problem or an airflow restriction. Addressing these issues promptly is crucial, as they can impact not just efficiency, but also the safety of your furnace.

As fall takes hold in Indianapolis, ensuring your furnace is in top condition is more than just a comfort issue – it’s a necessity. From regular maintenance to addressing furnace repairs like clogged filters or thermostat malfunctions, taking proactive steps can help maintain a warm and safe home environment. Not to mention, a well-maintained furnace is key to conserving energy and keeping those winter heating bills in check. Remember, when in doubt, consulting a heating professional can provide peace of mind and ensure your furnace is ready for the colder months ahead.