Learn About Some Signs of Furnace Burner Problems

As winter gets closer in Greensboro, NC, you want to nip furnace burner problems in the bud before they become an emergency. Professional HVAC services, like seasonal maintenance, can identify potential issues early, but you can, too. Knowing the signs of a faulty burner can help you get solutions faster and potentially even save a little money.

Flame Discoloration

Gas-powered furnaces should always produce a blue flame. The flame should never flicker, only burning steadily. So, if you notice a yellow flame wavering, it’s a good sign the burner isn’t getting proper combustion. This problem can produce excess carbon monoxide and cause it to leak into your home’s air.

Cleaning the burner and removing dirt buildup can prevent improper combustion. However, mechanical issues like a cracked heat exchanger can also cause the problem. That’s why you never want to play guessing games with discolored flames. Always call for emergency heating services.

Poor Heating Performance

The entire heating system fails to perform properly when it has faulty burners. You might notice the following problems:

• Less heat produced
• Intermittent operation
• Inadequate airflow
• Uneven heating

Temperature fluctuations aren’t the only issues indicating a faulty burner system. Your energy bill takes a hit, too. You might notice it costs more to heat your home despite keeping the thermostat at its normal setting. Routine maintenance can help prevent these problems, but sometimes you need more significant repairs. Your HVAC professional might recommend replacing the burner system to improve performance and increase your comfort levels.

Strange Sounds

Some furnace sounds are normal during operation, particularly upon startup. However, if you hear a bang or pop after the furnace turns on, excess gas might have built up in the system and caused a tiny explosion. HVAC pros call this delayed ignition. Allowing this to go on too long can cause the heat exchanger to crack and create a carbon monoxide situation.

If your heating system has furnace burner problems, get professional HVAC services immediately. Contact Total Heating & Cooling, Inc. today!