Many home heating systems, such as boilers and radiators, use water to heat homes. But what about furnaces? Does a furnace need water to run?

The answer is no; furnaces do not need water to run. However, furnaces can still produce water through combustion condensation. The team at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing is here to discuss furnaces, water, and the relationship between the two. 

Contact us today to schedule services for heating and air conditioning in Tulsa!

Do Furnaces Use Water?

Does a furnace need water to run? No. HVAC furnaces do not use water to generate heat. Instead, furnaces heat by burning natural gas. The combustion reaction oxides the natural gas, and the reaction releases heat — no water needed!

On the other hand, boilers and radiators do create heat using water. Boilers heat water and pump them through your home into radiators. The hot water radiates heat, increasing the temperature of your home. 

Furnaces don’t have boilers or radiators, so you never have to worry about your furnace running out of water or not having enough water. 

Why Does My Furnace Have Water On It?

Furnaces don’t need water to run, but homeowners may notice condensation and moisture around their furnaces over time. If furnaces don’t require water, then where does this water come from?

The answer is combustion. An energy-efficient heating appliance uses a combustion reaction to produce heat, carbon dioxide, and water vapor. The heated vapor condenses when it hits the heat exchange, creating drops of moisture. One main function of furnace vents is to get rid of this moisture. 

Clogs in your furnace drain system can cause condensation to leak out of vents and collect on the floor. If you notice water pooling on the floor near your furnace, you should check vents and drain lines to see if there are any leaks or blockages. 

Below is a quick list of other reasons your furnace might be leaking water. 

Air Conditioning Problems

If your furnace is dripping water, your air conditioning system may be the culprit. In modern HVAC systems, furnaces and air conditioners often share the same cabinet and blower fan. Leaks from your air conditioner can work their way into your furnace, making it appear like it’s your furnace that is leaking. 

Broken Condensate Pump

Most furnaces have a special pump that helps drain any condensate it produces. If the condensate pump brakes, water won’t drain properly and may start to leak onto the floor around the furnace cabinet.

Frozen Coils

Modern air conditioners use evaporator and condenser coils to produce cold air. If these coils freeze, they can leak water into your heat exchanger and appear to leak from your furnace. That is why we always recommend getting separate inspections for both your air conditioner and furnace. 

Are Boilers or Furnaces Better?

Whether boilers or furnaces are better depends on your specific situation and preference.

Boilers are highly efficient and relatively low maintenance compared to gas furnaces. They also produce fewer emissions and dust than furnaces. 

The downsides of boilers are they take longer to heat your home, and installation can be expensive. Boilers may also have difficulties running in cold weather because the water can freeze, and they can spring a leak. 

Furnaces are comparatively stronger and heat faster, but they cost more to run. Furnaces can also leak gas, which can pose a health and safety hazard, and also have shorter lifespans than boilers. 

Other Heating Systems That Use Water

Boilers are the most common type of heating system that uses water, but others exist. Below are two other relatively common HVAC setups that run on water. 

Baseboard Heating Systems

Baseboard heating systems are similar to traditional boiler systems in that they use pipes to pump hot water and steam through your home to distribute heat. The main difference is that baseboard systems don’t have individual radiators but instead use special electric baseboards near the floor. 

The steam running through the baseboard radiators heats the air, which then rises to fill the rest of the room. The main downside of this kind of system is that installing the electric baseboards can be difficult. 

Radiant Floor Heating Systems

Radiant floor heating systems work like baseboard systems, except they pipe heat through piping underneath the flooring. Homeowners favor this kind of system because it keeps your feet warm in addition to being efficient and low maintenance. 

Water Heater vs. Furnaces

Many homes also have a water heater that produces the hot water they use throughout the home. When water heaters leak, homeowners may initially want to call their HVAC company due to the word “heater” in the name.

However, water heaters are not part of your HVAC system but your plumbing system. Water heater repair requires a plumber, not an HVAC technician. An HVAC technician won’t be able to fix your water heater, just like how a plumber won’t be able to fix your furnace. 

Is Water on Your Furnace a Problem?

Even if the amount of water is small, it can still be a problem. Water and moisture can damage electrical components, and mold and mildew can start to grow in your duct system. Electrical damage can cause short circuits, which may lead to a fire. 

Water leaks from your HVAC system can also damage your home. Water in a crawl space can damage wooden structures, and standing water in your basement can seep into your home’s foundation. Suffice it to say that if you see water pooling around your furnace, you should call an HVAC expert ASAP. 

What Should I Do If I Detect Water on My Furnace?

If you do notice water on and around your furnace, the first thing you should do is turn it off. Running a furnace that is wet increases the chance of damage and is an electrical hazard. Next, clean up any standing water and wipe condensation off the unit. Make sure you take off the front panel and remove any water from the inside, too. 

Once you clean up visible water, contact an HVAC professional to schedule an appointment. They can identify the location of the leak and fix it in no time. 

How to Keep Your Furnace Dry

Water can damage your furnace and necessitate expensive repairs. You can keep your furnace safe from water with the following tips:

• We recommend scheduling regular furnace maintenance at least once every year — preferably every six months. Maintenance can catch and fix leaks and blockages before they form. 
• Get in the habit of checking your HVAC drain lines and vents for blockages. You can flush your drain lines using vinegar or bleach (do not mix the two together as that can create harmful chlorine gas).
• Make sure you change furnace filters once every three months. Clogged filters can collect moisture, which can facilitate mold and algae growth. 
• Periodically wipe down the internal components of your furnace. Dust and dirt can trap moisture. 
• Consider getting a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air around the furnace. Removing moisture in the air reduces condensation. 

Quality Is in Our Name!

To recap, does a furnace need water to run? The answer is no. However, large amounts of water around your furnace can indicate a problem with the drains or vents. Contact an expert such as Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today to troubleshoot any furnace issues. Read our blog to learn more about the difference between a gas furnace vs. electric furnace. If you would like to schedule an appointment, contact us online or call today at (918) 276-7151!

If you’re experiencing problems with the heating system in your Tulsa home, rely on the experts at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for help. Book an appointment now!

If your home uses a gas furnace to provide heat to the premises, it may have a pilot light. The pilot light or flame ignites the heating unit’s burners to combust natural fuel to produce heat.

Unfortunately, these flames can blow out for various reasons. So, knowing how to relight a pilot light on a furnace is necessary to keep the warmth flowing. 

As one of the top service providers for heating and air conditioning in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing regularly tends to gas furnaces. If you can’t properly heat your home due to the furnace’s pilot light going out, here are several tips on relighting it and possible blow-out causes.

Reasons a Furnace Pilot Light Goes Out

Age of the Heating Unit

Many furnaces facilitate the combustion process with a pilot light. When you turn on your home’s heat, the gas will travel through a valve to reach the pilot light. It’s a small blue flame that the system uses to ignite natural gas from the main burner.

Newer natural gas and propane furnaces lack a typical pilot light that burns constantly. Instead, they use an electronic ignition system that turns on only when necessary to burn fuel. Older furnaces 20 years old or older have traditional standing pilot lights. 

With a furnace that old, the system is likely to have worn, dirty components, reducing their inefficiency. As a result, the pilot light could struggle to stay lit. 

Ventilation Problems

A gust of air could also blow out the furnace’s pilot just like a lit match or candle. You might not realize that air could cause your pilot light to go out. Still, it’s common, especially if your heating unit ducts leak air. 

Gusts of wind are most likely the cause of your pilot light issues if your furnace flue has an incorrect installation or significant damage. Flue problems can also develop and affect your pilot light’s efficiency if the exhaust isn’t the right size for the furnace. In that case, the incorrectly sized flue could let in a draft that prevents the pilot light from staying lit. 

Thermocouple Issues

A thermocouple is a small safety valve that stops the flow of gas to the pilot light. Stopping the gas flow to the pilot light is necessary if the flame is no longer lit or is too small to ignite the gas in the main burner. 

The purpose of a thermocouple, which is directly over the pilot light, is to detect the flame. If the component is dirty or damaged and the flame goes out, the gas supplying the pilot light will continue seeping out. A gas leak is a serious problem, so a functional thermocouple is essential for your household’s safety. 

However, if the thermocouple has a problem, it could incorrectly shut off the gas supply to the pilot light. Without gas, the flame will not stay on. It’s not enough to know how to relight a pilot light on a furnace with a broken thermocouple; you’ll need a furnace technician to clean, repair, or replace the component to ensure it doesn’t prematurely cut the gas supply to the pilot light. 

Problems With the Gas Valve or Fuel Supply

Similar to a thermocouple, a functional gas valve is necessary for a pilot light on a furnace to stay on. If the gas valve doesn’t feed enough gas to the pilot light because of damage, it will blow out due to the lack of fuel. Even if the valve is operational, the pilot light will continue experiencing complications if the fuel supply is low. 

Broken Heat Exchanger

A furnace heat exchanger is a crucial component between the blower and combustion chamber that transfers heat from the furnace to the rest of your home. If your unit’s heat exchanger cracks, it will negatively affect the combustion chamber’s air pressure. As a result of the air pressure and venting changes, air can seep inside the chamber and blow out the pilot light. 

It’s best to hire a professional HVAC company to address an unlit pilot light if you suspect problems with the heat exchanger. 

5 Simple Steps To Relight the Pilot Light on a Furnace

While many homeowners feel comfortable enough to relight their furnace pilot lights if they go out, professional HVAC help is often necessary to address equipment issues that are causing the pilot light problems. Still, you can learn the basics of how to relight a pilot light on a furnace with this step-by-step guide.  

1. Check the Equipment’s Instruction Manual

Before doing anything to your furnace, you should familiarize yourself with its instruction manual. In the manual, you’ll find relevant information about your specific heating system, such as how to relight the pilot light and where to find “on,” “off,” and “reset” switches. 

Though different heating system models and brands may have varying setups and processes for relighting pilot lights, the general instructions tend to be the same. If you can’t find your furnace’s instruction manual, you can use the following steps to turn it back on. 

2. Locate the Furnace’s Reset Switch and Pilot Light Assembly

The pilot light assembly will most likely be at the bottom of the equipment. Near it, you may find a knob or switches with an “on,” “off,” and “pilot” setting. 

The knob should be fixed on the “pilot” setting once you locate it. Turn it to the “off” setting using your fingers. This adjustment stops the gas flow to the pilot light, making it safe to relight. 

3. Wait Several Minutes

You don’t want to immediately shift the knob from the “off” to the “pilot” positions to relight the pilot light. Instead, wait for at least five minutes. You must give the remaining gas time to dissipate from the combustion chamber to prevent igniting it. 

4. Relight the Pilot Light

After waiting for several moments, turn the knob or switch back to the “pilot” setting. Doing this will open the gas valve to the pilot light. 

Locate the furnace’s reset button. Next, light a long match or use a long-neck lighter to relight the pilot light while pressing the reset button. Keep your finger on the reset button until you see the pilot light burning steadily with a bright blue flame. 

5. Observe the Furnace’s Functions for Other Problems

Even after following these steps, the pilot light could go out again if there’s an unfixed problem blowing out the flame or preventing sufficient gas supply from reaching the pilot light assembly. If the flame blows out again, it’s time to call the professionals. 

Get Professional Help With Your Natural Gas Furnace Today

The pilot light on your gas furnace can blow out at any time, leaving your home in Tulsa, Oklahoma, without sufficient heat. It’s usually best to seek help from a qualified HVAC company, but knowing how to relight a pilot light on a furnace is still helpful in minor situations. 

At Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, our crew of licensed and certified technicians can help with many systems and equipment around your home to improve your safety and comfort. Whether you need to reset your electronic ignition furnace, repair a water heater, or maintain your furnace to optimize its performance and improve indoor air quality, our team can help. 

As a locally owned and operated company, Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing’s team is responsive, experienced, and courteous. Call (918) 393-4577 for an appointment today. 

As you watch the temperatures plummet, you change your thermostat settings to heat. Your furnace works without a hitch for a while, producing cozy, warm air that heats your house despite the frigid weather outside. However, you inevitably stumble upon a frustrating obstacle that causes your furnace to stop working. At Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, our HVAC contractors in Tulsa, Oklahoma, typically discover that a pressure switch failure triggers these sudden halts. What causes a furnace pressure switch to fail? Let’s dive into some answers below.

What Exactly Is a Pressure Switch?

Pressure switches are safety features that prevent carbon monoxide exposure and explosions in households that use furnaces for heating. When negative motor pressure triggers their response, they automatically stop combustion. Your furnace needs combustion to produce the heat that warms your home.

The furnace completely shuts down when the switch interrupts the combustion process. While this feature ultimately protects your household from potential disasters, it also inconveniences you when the trigger doesn’t have potentially disastrous consequences. 

What Causes a Furnace Pressure Switch To Fail?

Furnace pressure switches can fail for myriad reasons beyond dangerous occurrences. Sometimes, a failure happens because of something innocuous. Regardless, only a qualified HVAC technician should diagnose the issue and verify whether any authentic threats exist. 

Learn more about some common causes of pressure switch failure below. Your HVAC technician might discover one of these reasons if your pressure switch fails. 

Diaphragm Flap Damage

The pressure switch houses a component called a diaphragm flap. This flap stays open when the furnace powers off. Once the unit powers back on, the flap closes to create a complete electrical circuit that allows electricity to power the furnace’s operations. 

Sometimes, this flap incurs damage or becomes stuck. Diaphragm flap damage prevents electricity from moving through its full, conductive path. Therefore, your pressure switch will fail, preventing your furnace from turning back on.  

Flue Obstructions

The flue pipe is a pathway that allows your furnace’s waste gasses to escape your system and home. These gasses can have toxic effects on household occupants if they maneuver back into the system through a process called back drafting. Therefore, the pressure switch will fail if it detects these gasses returning due to a lack of exit points. 

Flue obstructions are the most common cause of returning waste gas. Small animal carcasses, bird nests, and plant matter can sometimes become lodged into the flue pipe. An HVAC technician can remove these obstructions, allowing waste substances to escape again. 

Debris Buildup

The pressure switch is near the gas valve and ignition area on most energy-efficient residential furnaces. This location allows the switch to take fairly accurate readings of the gas and ignition environment. However, the switch can also gather dust and dirt buildup over time. 

The ignition area and gas valve create soot, which travels to nearby components. This soot can clog the limit switch, pressure switch, flame sensor, and pilot light. If any of these components becomes coated with too much debris, the furnace may struggle to operate.  

Old Age

What causes a furnace pressure switch to fail when all else seems fine? Like other parts, pressure switches eventually succumb to old age and wear. Fortunately, pressure switch replacement services don’t typically break the bank. 

A licensed HVAC technician can quickly and efficiently perform this service. If you lose heat due to a faulty, old pressure switch, they’ll help you enjoy a cozy indoor environment again in no time. 

Malfunctioning Pressure Switch Hoses

Many pressure switches have one or two hoses connected to them. These hoses attach the switch to the condensate collector box and the draft inducer. Sometimes, the hoses become obstructed with debris. 

The hose that connects to the condensate collector box may become flooded with condensation. Meanwhile, the one attached to the draft inducer might collect too much dust and other dry debris. An HVAC technician will detach the hoses and remove any detritus hidden within their length. Otherwise, they may replace them. 

Electrical Disconnections

If you recently experienced a power surge or other electrical phenomena in your area, you can likely blame pressure switch failures on these occurrences. Surges overwhelm the pressure switch alongside other components. Your technician will probably replace the switch under these circumstances. 

Disconnected wires may also trigger failures. Like other furnace networks, the pressure switch relies on electrical circuits to send messages and respond to its environment. Loose connections are common culprits of switch failures. 

Preventing Pressure Switch Failures

What can you do to avoid pressure switch failures? Choosing reputable HVAC services throughout the lifespan of your furnace will significantly decrease the odds of misreadings and triggers causing failures. Implement the tips outlined below to protect your pressure switch and furnace. 

Choose Reputable Installation Services

Furnace installation is the foundation for a successful service life. Subpar installation services from unqualified contractors will result in various shortcomings and disappointments. A poorly installed furnace is more likely to develop triggers that cause pressure switch failures and other impromptu annoyances at the worst possible times. 

Regular Professional Maintenance

Scheduling annual maintenance appointments with a professional HVAC company will mitigate most of the above-listed issues. A technician will examine and troubleshoot your furnace for issues like dirty components, flue obstructions, and damaged parts. If they discover these problems, they’ll address them during the service. 

Maintenance services are the best way to keep components clean and intact. Not only do they prevent inconvenient failures, but they also prolong your furnace’s service life. You’ll enjoy reliable, complication-free heating when you schedule your yearly appointment in the autumn. 

Choose Furnace Repair and Maintenance Services From Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing

What causes a furnace pressure switch to fail without warning? Damaged or dirty components, regular wear and tear, and electrical disconnections are some of the most common switch triggers. Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing also answers other pertinent HVAC questions, including, “Is it bad to turn your furnace on and off?”

Accompany the answers to your burning heating and cooling inquiries with reputable HVAC services in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and surrounding areas. Call (918) 393-4577 to schedule services.

Do you have a faulty furnace that struggles to heat your home? Cracks in the furnace’s heat exchanger are a major cause for concern since this component helps supply your home with reliable and safe heat. This begs the question: Can a cracked furnace be repaired? 

The experts at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, the best heating and cooling company in Tulsa, are here to explain everything you need to know about this issue. Learn what causes cracks in the heat exchanger and how HVAC technicians resolve the problem in this helpful guide. 

What Is a Furnace Heat Exchanger?

Before we answer the question “Can a cracked furnace be repaired?” let’s go over the heat exchanger’s purpose. This essential piece of your heating system aptly helps transfer the heat from the combustion chamber toward the motor fan so the hot air will circulate through your vents. 

The heat exchanger acts as a shield against the combustion chamber. All of the gases burning inside the chamber produce harmful flue gases along with the heat. The purpose of the heat exchanger is to absorb the heat and filter out the flue gases so your vents fill with warm air instead of dangerous chemicals. 

Heat exchangers should operate normally if you have a new furnace and follow proper maintenance protocols. Excess heater stress cracks the shield, especially if the furnace is older and has a good amount of wear and tear. Corrosion and frequent heat cycling can add to the system’s stress and damage this critical piece. 

Dangers of a Cracked Heat Exchanger

A heat exchanger is a huge part of furnace safety. It prevents dangerous gases from entering your home’s vents by keeping them inside the combustion chamber. Any cracks or damage to the heat exchanger can have major consequences, including the following issues. 

Greater Carbon Monoxide Risk

The slightest hole in a furnace heat exchanger can send carbon monoxide and other toxic gases throughout your home. This is extremely dangerous for your health and may cause you to feel nauseous or disoriented. Since carbon monoxide is odorless and colorless, you likely won’t know you’re breathing it in unless you have a working detector or start to feel ill. 

Can a cracked furnace be repaired so you no longer have to live with this risk? Yes, repairs are possible and must happen immediately for your safety. 

Decreased Furnace Efficiency

When heat escapes through holes in the exchanger, your furnace must work harder to reach your desired temperature. The efficiency of the system will suffer, and you’ll have higher energy bills despite your furnace failing to heat your home. Modern heating systems with an Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency rating of 90% to 98.5% contain two heat exchangers to seal the combustion process and save you money. 

How Can a Cracked Furnace Be Repaired?

HVAC technicians usually recommend two courses of action for fixing cracked heat exchangers: replace the heat exchanger or the whole furnace. Experts will come to your home and perform an inspection to determine which route is best for you. 

If you’ve had your unit for more than ten years and are nearing the end of the average furnace lifespan, it’s in your best interest to replace the entire system. The heater will likely experience further problems down the road and be less efficient than it once was. You can save money on repair costs and your monthly energy bills by installing a brand-new heater. 

Furnaces under ten years old will benefit from a heat exchanger replacement. The rest of the system should work fine for several more years as long as you perform regular maintenance. 

When To Call a Professional Technician

When should you call a heating repair company to inspect your furnace? Contact a specialist if your carbon monoxide detector goes off or you start feeling sick because of flue gases. This issue often stems from damage to the heat exchanger. 

Other warning signs to look out for include:

• Foul odors from the furnace
• A yellow furnace flame
• A build-up of dust or debris near your vents
• Large amounts of soot inside the furnace
• An unexplained increase in energy bills

A contractor will assess the condition of your furnace and determine whether the heat exchanger is to blame. During their inspection, they may notice additional issues with the HVAC system, such as leaky ducts or a clogged air filter. Technicians will address any issues that arise so you can safely heat your home. 

How To Prevent Damage to Your Heat Exchanger

Not only can a cracked furnace be repaired, but you can also prevent it from happening in the first place. Experts suggest the following measures for optimal heating performance. 

Book Professional Installation

If you install a furnace without the proper qualifications, you face the risk of mechanical issues, including a cracked heat exchanger. Licensed HVAC contractors know how to install gas furnaces correctly, so they work without issue. 

Schedule Regular Maintenance

Furnace tune-ups prevent the need for part replacements and repairs. This saves you money in the long run and keeps your furnace running efficiently for lower utility costs. Have a professional heating technician inspect your furnace once a year, ideally during the fall, to keep your system in excellent condition. 

Regular maintenance involves cleaning internal components, checking for damaged parts, and tightening loose connections. You’ll have peace of mind when you have a trusted expert perform routine maintenance. 

Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection With Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing

After reading this guide, you no longer have to wonder, “Can a cracked furnace be repaired?” If you experience the signs of a cracked heat exchanger or have other problems with your furnace, contact the specialists at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. We can answer all your burning questions, such as “How long do gas furnaces last?” and restore your faulty furnace components. 

Call (918) 262-5245 or use our online contact form to request immediate service in Tulsa and the surrounding areas. 

Whatever you need for your plumbing, air conditioner, or furnace, Quality Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing can help, so call us today! 

Can a dirty filter stop a furnace from working? Keeping your furnace in top shape is essential to avoid disruptions to comfortable indoor temperatures. Changing out your furnace filter on a routine basis is one of the easiest and most effective ways to support your heating system.

In this guide, Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing will explore how dirty filters are responsible for numerous common furnace concerns, how often you need to replace filters, and the telltale signs that you have a clogged filter in your furnace. We will also cover what happens when you fail to replace your filter in a timely manner. After reading, reach out to our trusted heat and air company in Tulsa, OK, to book a service appointment. 

The Most Common Reason for Furnace Problems: Dirty Filters

Clogged air filters in your furnace can have more of an impact than you may realize. Just before the end of the heating season (or at the very beginning), you should swap out your current furnace filter to keep your system running in optimal condition and avoid damage-causing clogs. 

Clean filters help your heating system get the proper airflow it requires to send warm air throughout your space. When this is limited, the heat may remain stuck or cause the appliance to overheat.

Furnace parts will work twice as hard and struggle to get your home at the temperatures you want, causing them to wear down earlier than they should, putting a large hole in your wallet and affecting your budget in an unexpected way.

How Often Should You Replace Furnace Filters?

Therefore, replacing your filter should become a significant part of your HVAC routines. Although replacement frequency varies for furnace size and system type, the best recommendation is to change out your furnace filter once a month. At the beginning of each month, check your current filter’s condition, swap it out if it’s quite dirty, and keep some extra filters on hand so you never get stuck without any!

If you’re not sure when to replace your furnace filter, make a note of your current filter’s size and follow this helpful guide:

• 1 in. to 2 in. filters = Every one to three months
• 3 in. to 4 in. filters = Every six to nine months
• 5 in. to 6 in. filters = Every nine to twelve months

Schedule your annual furnace tuneup appointment with a reliable heating and cooling business near you before the start of the fall and winter months. It’s better to make note of problems and resolve them before you need to use your furnace than in the middle of winter.

Signs You Have Clogged Furnace Filters

If your furnace functions as normal, you might not give it a second thought until something goes wrong. With so much going on in your life, you may not remember how long it’s been since your last furnace filter replacement. Fortunately, you can look for a few clues that it’s time to do so. 

Replacing your furnace filters is essential to avoid cold winter nights and having to spend a fortune on a new system. When something is wrong with your system, try replacing the filters; if problems persist, you should schedule professional furnace repair services in your area. Repairs, maintenance, and putting in new filters in your property’s furnace are among the best methods to save money and avoid furnace replacement.

Look for the following indicators that you should swap out your filters: 

• You and your family are coughing more, notice increased allergies, or notice a decline in indoor air quality.
• Your furnace is operating at decreased efficiency, resulting in a colder property without consistent temperatures.
• Your furnace has more frequent breakdowns and broken parts.
• You don’t know when the last time you put in a new filter was. 

What Problems Can a Dirty Air Filter in Your Furnace Cause?

Can a dirty filter stop a furnace from working? Yes, but many of them are preventable by swapping out your filters and scheduling your annual maintenance services with a trusted HVAC company. Unfortunately, having a clogged filter in your furnace can lead to the following major issues.

Uncomfortable Temperatures

When your furnace filter is clogged, it’s almost impossible to reach the warm temperatures you want inside your home. The dust and dirt act as a barrier, preventing the smooth and consistent airflow you’ve come to expect. You’ll notice distinctly cold areas of your home instead of warmth.

During cold Tulsa winters, the last thing you want to deal with is feeling even colder in your house. Keep your family on a routine and make a note to replace furnace filters every one to six months, depending on your respective filter size. After you know what kind you have, stick to a consistent schedule to avoid having temperature problems in the future. 

Additionally, booking routine maintenance services can also keep dirty filters in check, though you should change them throughout the year, too.

Poor Indoor Air Quality

When your furnace filters are blocked with dander, dust, and debris, they will eventually stop doing their job. This means that the contaminants in your property’s indoor air remain present, impacting you and your loved ones. The increased level of pollutants contributes to stronger allergies and respiratory problems and could potentially increase your chances of getting sick, especially during the winter months.

Can a dirty filter stop a furnace from working? Most definitely, but it can also make you feel worse during colder weather.

You can experience cleaner air that doesn’t contribute to sickness or health problems by simply getting a new air filter. It’s a small step for your furnace, but one that makes a huge impact. You’ll feel better about your health and how your furnace operates! It’s a win all around.

Expensive Heating Bills

If you want to avoid high heating bills each month, replace your old furnace filter with a fresh one. Taking care of furnaces and boilers not only helps them last as long as possible and avoid an early replacement, but they also can save you money in other ways. You’ll pay less money for your bills and experience a better-functioning furnace, so remember to make time to care for your heating system.

Other Negative Consequences of Neglecting a Clogged Furnace Filter

Although we’ve explained some of the top results of not replacing your furnace filter, these are not the only things that can happen. Consider some of the other problems that forgetting to swap out the filter can manifest, then contact local technicians or invest in some replacement filters:

• Short cycling problems
• Damage to the furnace’s heat exchanger
• A broken or less efficient blower motor
• Problems with internal parts
• Lack of heat
• A complete furnace breakdown

Contact Quality Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing for Trusted Furnace Repair Services in Tulsa or Glenpool, Oklahoma!

Now that we’ve thoroughly answered, “Can a dirty filter stop a furnace from working?” it’s time to schedule your furnace repair appointment with our trusted HVAC business serving Glenpool and Tulsa, OK. We have the reliable heating repair services you need and are a top-rated team. Besides working on your home’s heating system, we are also equipped to repair, install, or maintain your air conditioning and plumbing systems.

Call Quality Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing now at (918) 276-7151 to book superior furnace services in Tulsa, Oklahoma!

Experience the ultimate level of indoor comfort with HVAC and plumbing services from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. Call us now to discuss your needs or to schedule a service appointment for installation, maintenance, and more.

How many hours should a furnace run in the winter? Many homeowners worry about furnace operation during the cooler months when their reliance on this essential appliance is at its heaviest. In this guide, we’ll cover the typical running time in the winter, why furnaces turn on and off and struggle to reach the temperatures you want, and what you can do about short cycling problems. 

After learning more, reach out to Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for a furnace consultation appointment. We are a top-rated and reputable heat and air company in Tulsa, OK, and the surrounding areas. If your furnace doesn’t run properly, let us assist you promptly!

How Long Do Furnaces Operate in the Wintertime?

Furnaces will turn on and add heat to your property to reach your preferred temperature. Once your home is at your programmed temperature, it will shut off as it no longer needs to make changes. We call this process “running” or “cycling,” and it may happen several times per hour.

A furnace may cycle every 10 to 15 minutes and could experience anywhere from two to eight cycles per hour. Extremely cold climates can warrant the need for your furnace to experience more cycles and work harder to reach your temperature goals. However, shutting off and turning back on after a few seconds is a major clue that your furnace needs repairs or replacement services. 

So, how many hours should a furnace run in the winter normally? While there’s no consistent answer, as everyone’s heating needs and preferences differ, you can expect your furnace to operate for several hours during the winter, depending on how long it needs to heat your property. Your climate, property size, furnace type, and several other factors will also affect the number of hours your furnace runs.

Potential Explanations for Furnace Short Cycling

While cycling is typical behavior for a furnace, turning on and off after a few seconds over and over is not. So, why does this happen? If your furnace thinks it has reached your desired temperature or starts to overheat, it will shut off after “achieving the goal” or for safety reasons.

Furnaces can get improper temperature readings if your thermostat resides in direct sunlight, believing that your property is warmer than it actually is. If your thermostat is faulty, this can also cause incorrect readings. Scheduling repair services or upgrading to a smart thermostat can help. 

Several other causes for frequent cycling include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Too big of a furnace. Homes with oversized furnaces can get hotter than necessary, leading to the overheating and shutdown of the system. Unfortunately, you will need to replace your furnace with an appropriately sized unit to resolve this major issue.
• A dirty flame sensor or flue. Cleaning these parts can remove the dirt accumulation that’s preventing proper function. If the sensor or flue has damage, you’ll need a service technician to perform repairs or swap out the broken part for a new one.
• Issues with the igniter. Furnace repair services can resolve any trouble with your igniter and let professionals test its function.
• A broken fan limiter. This is another common reason that a furnace could suddenly turn off, as the fan limiter is another part that blocks the furnace from getting too hot. Once you address this, the furnace may function as normal.

What To Do When Your Furnace Is Repeatedly Short Cycling

It’s frustrating and inconvenient when you’re trying to get warm and your furnace constantly turns on and off. You’re unlikely to feel comfortable or achieve the warmth you want during a cold winter day. Consider trying the following tips to stop the issue.

Address Problems With Your Insulation

You might experience a higher-than-normal amount of furnace cycles if you have poor-quality insulation. If you had a poor-quality installation job or your insulation has experienced damage from weather, animals, and other factors, it can’t properly support your HVAC system.

Some major issues with insulation include leaks and air pockets. These vulnerabilities can allow air to escape and make your furnace operate less effectively. You may need a professional to address any problematic areas with your insulation, so remember to keep up with routine inspections and maintenance services.

You should also verify that you have properly sealed your doors and windows. Again, any cracks or areas for air to escape can make your furnace work twice as hard or contribute to short cycling concerns. 

Work With a Furnace Technician in Your Area

The easiest way to get to the bottom of furnace problems is to hire a reputable heating technician in your community. They will identify what’s causing your furnace to short cycle and discuss factors that could explain its decreased efficiency. A professional will offer a clear explanation and the best solution. 

Cycling issues almost always warrant the need for furnace repair services, unless you have a minor issue that you can resolve with troubleshooting. Checking that you have no blockages around your furnace or vents and clearing the exterior of your furnace are some good steps to take. 

A consultation appointment with a heating specialist can resolve any issues in a timely manner. With their help, you can identify and fix a problem to get your home back to a comfortable temperature.

Replace Your Furnace Filters

Your furnace runs optimally with a clean filter. Replacing furnace filters every one to three months is the general recommendation and is an excellent way to avoid costly repairs. It only takes a few seconds but could address short cycling and plenty of other common furnace problems.

If you’ve replaced your filter and are still experiencing trouble, you might have an unreliable or outdated heating system. Perhaps your furnace is nearing the end of its life and starting to decline as a result. Fortunately, plenty of energy-efficient residential furnaces are available for replacement and could help your property experience greater indoor comfort with fewer problems. 

Common Furnace Problems That Warrant the Need for Repairs

Although we’ve discussed some reasons you might notice short cycling with your furnace, there are other concerns that may require repairs. Since furnaces are complex systems that need routine maintenance to keep every part functioning in top shape, several issues can cause a decline in performance.

Some of the most common reasons that businesses and homeowners contact professional heating technicians for assistance are as follows:

• Broken blower motor
• Dirty flame sensor
• A too-big or too-small furnace
• Incorrect thermostat setting
• Bad thermostat placement
• Loose screws or panels
• Carbon monoxide leaks
• Burner problems
• Bad electrical connections
• A worn motor or belt
• Obstructions near the furnace

Contact Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for Top-Notch Furnace Installation, Repair, and Maintenance Services in Tulsa, Oklahoma!

We hope you now have more clarity about questions like, “How many hours should a furnace run in the winter?” At Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, we offer reliable furnace services and can provide heating maintenance to ensure your system is running in top condition. We offer easy online appointment scheduling and helpful financing and have a knowledgeable service team.

Call Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing today at (918) 262-5245 to book top-rated furnace services in Tulsa or Glenpool, OK! Learn more today.

Rely on Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing when you need furnace repair in Tulsa. Book your appointment with us now!

If you have a gas furnace, you expect it to warm your home once temperatures drop outside. Unfortunately, bad furnace flame sensors can prevent these heating systems from delivering the warmth they’re expected to provide. A flame sensor might not seem like a major furnace component, but it can bring the combustion process to a standstill. 

As a top HVAC contractor in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing has the skills and expertise to address any gas furnace problem, including flame sensor issues. Here, we explain the warning signs of a bad flame sensor so you’ll know when to call us for help. 

The Purpose and Importance of a Flame Sensor in a Gas Furnace

Gas furnaces have flame sensors that resemble metal rods to ensure the unit has a burning flame within the burner assembly. The flame facilitates the fuel combustion process that generates heat. If the flame goes out, unburned natural gas or propane will seep from the furnace’s combustion chamber, creating a potentially dangerous situation for the household. 

The carbon monoxide byproduct from incomplete combustion is a serious problem. The gas is colorless, odorless, and incredibly dangerous. A furnace gas leak could lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or an explosion. 

The flame sensor is a safety feature that turns off the furnace if it doesn’t detect a flame strong enough to trigger and complete the combustion process. It generates a small electrical current to detect the presence of a flame as soon as the furnace’s gas valve opens. The flame sensor helps minimize the risk of a carbon monoxide leak by automatically turning off the heating unit. 

Top 7 Signs of a Bad Furnace Flame Sensor

Now that you know why a flame sensor is necessary, consider these warning signs of a bad flame sensor in your furnace.

1. Flue Line Corrosion

The flue line is responsible for venting harmful gases from the furnace outdoors so nothing seeps into the house. However, if the line develops rust or corrosion, it usually means a leak somewhere in the line, resulting in inefficient carbon monoxide venting. With a flue line leak and corrosion, the furnace’s flame sensor is likely shutting down the heating system to prevent further damage. 

2. High Energy Bills

Skyrocketing energy bills could mean multiple things, including issues with the flame sensor. If your energy bills are steadily increasing without an obvious cause, you should first check the air filters. If you’ve already swapped a dirty filter for a clean one or have a clean air filter in place, yet your energy bills are still increasing, the problem could be a dirty or faulty flame sensor. 

When a flame sensor can’t perform its job correctly, it puts a strain on the furnace. An inefficient furnace consumes more energy to maintain the desired heat output, resulting in higher energy expenses. 

3. Yellow Flames

Yellow burner flames are a clear indicator of a bad flame sensor in a furnace. When the burner flames fire up, they should be a bright blue. Yellow flames mean carbon monoxide gas is likely building up inside the furnace because of incomplete combustion. You should immediately contact a furnace professional to safely ensure the flame sensor and furnace function. 

4. Furnace Short Cycling

When a furnace short cycles, it turns on for a minute or two before shutting off. Since two minutes isn’t enough to properly warm a house, this on/off cycle will occur many times as the heating unit tries to reach the temperature on the thermostat. 

Several furnace problems, including a bad flame sensor, can lead to short cycling. If the sensor is dirty or malfunctioning, it might not sense the flame even if it’s present. As a result, the furnace will shut down immediately after kicking on. 

5. Dirt on the Sensor

Speaking of dirt on the sensor, debris inside a furnace is a major problem. Without routine maintenance that includes inspecting and cleaning the flame sensor, the component will soon develop a layer of dirt, dust, and grime. The sensor should be clean and clear so it can properly detect flames. 

6. Visible Damage on the Flame Sensor

Like any other part of a furnace, the flame sensor could sustain damage that prevents it from working correctly. For example, the exterior portion of the sensor is porcelain, which could crack over time. With a cracked casing, the flame sensor can’t accurately access the heat from the furnace’s flames, so it might think a flame is present when it’s not. 

7. Age

Most flame sensors have a life expectancy of about 20 years. Before reaching the end of its lifespan, the sensor will start to malfunction from natural wear. It’s best to replace the sensor before it gets to that point.

Tips for Cleaning a Furnace Flame Sensor

The flame sensor is inside the furnace’s burner assembly near the bottom of the unit. Once you’re ready to clean your furnace’s flame sensor, turn off the heating system, unfasten the flame sensor by loosening the screw or bolts, and disconnect its wiring.

Use light-grit sandpaper to gently remove soot and debris from the metal rod. Reattach the sensor. Finally, test the sensor by turning on the furnace and letting it run. 

Keep Your Furnace Flame Sensor in Great Condition With Our Help

Bad flame sensors in furnaces can cause major heating issues, but our team at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing can help. As a privately owned and operated local company in Tulsa, Oklahoma, we employ a team of licensed and certified HVAC technicians who will take the time to thoroughly assess your furnace to provide the best solution to your HVAC problems.

Our crew has years of experience, and we exude professionalism in everything we do. Call (918) 393-4204 to request a heating repair from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. 

Let Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing take care of your heating, air conditioning, and ventilation needs in Tulsa. Call today for more details!

A common problem for many homes in the winter is dry indoor air. Raising the furnace humidifier is a great way to add more moisture to your house as warm air circulates through it. Still, you might ask yourself, “What should a furnace humidifier be set at in winter?”

At Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing, our skilled technicians are well-versed in all things relating to heating and cooling in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Below, we share the correct winter setting for your furnace humidifier and why this setting is necessary.

What You Should Know About Relative Humidity

It helps to know about relative humidity to fully understand why your home needs to maintain a specific humidity level, even in the winter when the air is usually dry. Relative humidity refers to how much water vapor a house can hold before condensation forms. For example, if your home has a 40-percent relative humidity level, the air only holds 40 percent of the moisture it could contain. 

Temperature fluctuations influence relative humidity. Chilled air has less humidity than warm air, so you can expect your home’s humidity level to decrease as temperatures drop outside. 

Why Too Much Humidity Is Bad for Your House

House humidifiers add moisture to the air indoors. Even if dry air is too uncomfortable for you, indoor air with too much water vapor isn’t good.

If the air inside your house contains too much moisture while the temperatures outside are at or below freezing, the vapor can turn into condensation around your walls and windows. Depending on the temperatures inside and outside your house, the condensation can remain a liquid or turn into ice. Either way, the risk of water damage and mold growth is substantially higher in a home with too much humidity than in a drier residence. 

On the other hand, you don’t want to leave your house with dry air all winter. Dry indoor air can lead to:

• Itchy eyes
• Throat irritation
• Dry skin
• Sinus irritation
• Increased risk of respiratory infections

Finding the balance between dry and moist air will make your home more comfortable.

The Ideal Humidity for Your House During the Winter

The best thing to do to make your home comfortable without risking mold and water damage due to high humidity levels is to adjust your furnace humidifier. However, if you’re wondering, “What should a furnace humidifier be set at in winter?” you’re not alone.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, optimal indoor humidity levels are between 30 and 60 percent. You can achieve this humidity level by taking note of the temperature outside and making the appropriate adjustments. 

If the temperature outside is between 20 and 40 degrees, keep your home’s humidity level around 40 percent. If temperatures drop to between ten and 20 degrees, adjust the furnace humidifier for a 25-percent to 30-percent indoor humidity level. 

In general terms, you should match your furnace humidifier’s settings to the temperature outside. If the temperatures drop, so should your humidity setting.

You can also set your furnace humidifier between 30 and 50 percent and adjust the humidity once you notice condensation building up inside your windows. Indoor condensation around windows and sills is a clear indicator that the house’s humidity levels are off in relation to the temperature outside.

Reasons To Maintain Proper Humidity Levels During Winter

You might not give much thought to your home’s humidity level, but you should. Regulating humidity as you regulate indoor temperatures can benefit you in more ways than one.

Money Savings

Most of the energy your home consumes in the winter likely comes from the furnace. The extra energy consumption translates to higher monthly utility bills. However, you can maintain the same level of warmth and comfort you desire and save money on energy by adjusting the furnace humidifier. 

When your home reaches the right humidity level in the winter, the air will automatically feel warmer. That means you can turn the thermostat down by a couple of degrees and raise the humidifier without negatively impacting your house’s warmth and coziness. Any time you drop the temperature on the thermostat in the winter, you’ll consume less energy and increase your monthly savings, even if it’s only a degree or two.

Health Improvement

The biggest advantage of knowing what to set your furnace humidifier at is a healthy environment. Many types of viruses and bacteria spread more easily in low-humidity conditions. Raising your indoor humidity levels appropriately according to the temperature outside can make it harder to transmit illnesses around your household.

For example, a humidity level above 40 percent gives the flu virus a 14-percent survival rate. In comparison, a 23-percent humidity level leaves about 75 percent of the virus particles alive, increasing the risk of an infection. 

Mold is another health concern when it comes to humidity. If your indoor humidity levels are too high in relation to the temperatures outdoors, the water vapor can create mold on walls, floors, ceilings, and other surfaces. Breathing in mold spores can trigger allergy-like symptoms or cause respiratory illnesses. 

Property Protection

Water around porous materials can be problematic, but dry air can also be damaging. Wood floors and furniture can warp due to excess moisture or dry air. However, you can protect your home and belongings by maintaining the appropriate humidity level in your house throughout the winter. 

Stay Warm and Cozy This Winter With Help From Our HVAC Professionals

If you still need help understanding “What should a furnace humidifier be set at in winter,” Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing can help. Our locally owned and operated business offers comprehensive HVAC services in Tulsa, Oklahoma, from heating maintenance to air conditioning repair. We have years of experience and value our customers, so we respond quickly to service requests.

Call (918) 393-4204 to request an appointment with us. 

If you need high-quality heating, cooling, and plumbing services in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and its surrounds, we’re here for you!

Your furnace is an important part of your home, keeping your family warm and cozy, but what happens when it stops working? One common issue with heating units is inconsistent cycling, where it randomly stops or continues running without ever switching off. If you’re wondering why your furnace won’t stop running like this and what to do about it, you’re in the right place.

As a leading heating contractor in Tulsa, OK, Quality Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing shares possible reasons your furnace is constantly running and how to proceed.

1 The Thermostat Isn’t Set Correctly

The first step in addressing a furnace that keeps cycling is addressing the cause. While there are several factors that cause a furnace to cycle over and over again, the most common cause of an overactive furnace is a thermostat setting that’s gone wrong.

When you notice your heating unit running inconsistently, the first thing you’ll want to do is check the thermostat. Sometimes, the simplest answer is the right one, and someone in the house may well have set the thermostat too high without realizing it. Of course, this is the easiest possible fix, as all you do is return the thermostat to the desired temperature.

Another issue is the Auto vs. On setting that controls your furnace blower motor. Your thermostat should always be set to Auto so that the furnace blower only turns on when the furnace itself does. When your furnace is set to On, the blower won’t stop running.

2 The Heating Unit’s Filters Are Dirty

When was the last time your HVAC filters got a thorough cleaning? Clearing these filters of gunk and dirt is essential for maintaining heater function, as air cannot flow freely through dirty or clogged filters. If the filter restricts the unit’s airflow, the furnace will also continue running because it won’t ever reach the right temperature. 

Is your heating unit running all of the time? Check your furnace’s filters to rule out clogs. Then, to clean your heating filters and restore adequate airflow, follow these three easy steps:

1. Open the compartment cover and remove the old, clogged filter from the heating unit.
2. Insert a new, clean filter into the unit according to the arrows on the frame.
3. Close the filter access panel on your unit and throw away the old filter.

Some units have reusable heating filters that you will clean instead of throwing away. If your unit has one of these, remove the filter from the furnace and use a vacuum to gently suction the debris from the filter. Whether it’s reusable or disposable, you should clean or replace your furnace’s filters at least once a month to ensure it runs correctly.

3 The Thermostat Batteries Need Changing

If your furnace won’t stop running after clearing the filter, your thermostat may still be the cause. Even with the correct settings, your thermostat can’t control the HVAC unit properly if its batteries are dying or there’s some problem with the signal between the two. 

Does your home have a programmable thermostat that uses batteries? If you’re finding the furnace is constantly cycling, try putting new batteries into the thermostat and see if that resolves the issue.

In other cases, the thermostat could be malfunctioning, broken, or outdated. Thermostats play a very important role in our home climate control systems, but they are simple pieces of equipment. It’s always possible that the thermostat can no longer control your HVAC systems, especially if it’s past its time for replacement.

4 There’s a Short in the Control Board Wiring

The warmth of your heating unit is more than welcome when temperatures drop very low, but no one wants their furnace to run non-stop. Sometimes, the cause of your furnace or heating unit problem is an electrical issue. For example, there might be a fused contact or a short in the unit’s control board.

When your furnace won’t stop running, it presents several concerns that may include the following:

Compromised Comfort

The most obvious reason you don’t want your furnace running all of the time is the toll it takes on your home comfort. A furnace that is running all the time makes any home too hot.

High Cost

An HVAC unit that overworks itself drives up utility bills, often drastically. When your furnace won’t stop running, you’ll see a spike in the following month’s costs.

Excess Energy Use

Being more sustainable and eco-friendly isn’t possible with a heating unit that runs constantly. It uses far more energy.

Fire Hazards

The most serious concern from a furnace that runs all day is a potential fire. Clogged filters and electrical issues put the safety of your family and pets in jeopardy as they overheat your machine. Since only an HVAC professional can diagnose these types of concerns, you shouldn’t wait to call local experts like Quality Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing right away if you want peace of mind.

5 Your System Has Air Duct Leakage

When your furnace is on, hot air flows through your home’s elaborate ductwork. Older homes or outdated heating units are prone to leaky air ducts, which stop air from flowing to the various spaces throughout your home. The result is a furnace that continues running at all times because it’s trying to warm your home to no avail.

If you have an older home or an old furnace, ductwork leaks may not be the only problem with your cooling and heating system. Thankfully, a team like Quality Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing can help you address these concerns promptly and reach into the ductwork as needed. Air ducts lie within the walls and ceilings of your house, so trained and equipped technicians will carefully examine these spaces to solve your heating problem as quickly as possible.

6 There’s a Larger Problem That Needs Repair or Replacement

What should you do when your furnace won’t stop running? If you notice this issue has continued after you’ve checked your thermostat settings and looked at the filters to make sure they are clean, you may need to acknowledge the likelihood of a bigger issue. 

The experts at Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing recommend trying the following before you call a professional for urgent assistance:

• Turn your furnace off by going to the breaker box and turning off your heating unit. 
• You do this by locating the “Furnace” or “Heater” label and shutting down the power. 
• Next, you’ll want to turn off the furnace itself. The switch looks similar to a light switch and usually flips down to turn off the system. 
• Finally, seek professional assistance to diagnose and treat the underlying problem before you use your unit again.

You might be lucky enough to have one leaky air duct or a minor electrical issue, but you’ll need to be sure before you keep running your unit.

When Your Furnace Won’t Stop Running, You Need Quality Furnace Repair Right Away!

Is your furnace running all day and night? Even with winter’s cold air, your heating unit is not meant to run constantly. Furnaces that won’t stop cycling drive up utility costs and present a safety hazard for your home. If there are signs you have a broken furnace, be sure to contact professionals near you like Quality Heating, Cooling, & Plumbing. 

When your furnace won’t stop running, you need a competent team of HVAC technicians to visit your home and check your heating system from top to bottom. Why not schedule an appointment with Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing at 918-393-4204 today? 

Is your furnace suffering power issues or inconsistent cycling? Call top-rated HVAC professionals from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for an inspection and maintenance.

When temperatures dip in the winter, you’ll want your furnace functioning on high whenever you’re home. But what about times you’re not home? Is it bad to turn your furnace on and off?

In this blog, we’ll discuss how powering your furnace off and on can either help or hurt your home. While many homeowners think that turning off home systems saves money, it depends on the circumstances. Read on to learn more about how keeping your furnace powered on can improve home comfort and save money.

Call the top-rated heating contractor in Tulsa, OK, when you need electric or gas furnace repair, maintenance, or installation. Our professionals come equipped with the best tools and techniques in the industry to keep your heater optimally functional during the coldest months of the year. Call today to schedule service.

How Furnaces Normally Cycle

It’s actually normal for your furnace to turn on and off throughout the day. Your furnace heats the air in your home and distributes it through ductwork in routine cycles.

When the temperature in your home reaches your desired level, your furnace stops for a period. If your interior temperatures decline again, your furnace will power back on.

Although this is the normal operation cycle for most furnaces, it doesn’t mean that your furnace is turning off and on. Homeowners wondering, “Is it bad to turn your furnace on and off?” are usually referring to fully flipping the power switch. Doing so disrupts the normal furnace cycling and prohibits warm air from flowing.

Times You Might Want to Shut Off Your Furnace

It’s wise to try and save money on your home comfort systems. That’s why people frequently ask our HVAC professionals when it might be wise to power down their furnace. Some common situations where homeowners may want to shut down their furnace include:

• Leaving home daily for school or work
• Seasonal and vacation property needs
• Going on vacation for multiple days
• During signs of furnace disrepair or a gas leak
• Other maintenance or work needs to happen at home

These common situations prompt homeowners to try saving money by shutting down their furnace. However, not every one of these situations mandates a complete furnace power down.

Does Shutting Down a Furnace Save Money

One of the top questions we get about furnace operations is whether turning it off saves money. Ultimately, there are very few situations where shutting off your system will lead to lower utility bills or savings. That’s because adversities and potential damage usually arise when you power off your furnace.

During winter, it’s especially risky to keep your furnace off for any period. Later in this blog, we’ll discuss some of the risks of powering off your furnace during the winter and otherwise.

Consider installing an energy-efficient furnace for savings on your monthly bills.

Risks When Turning Off Your Furnace

While asking, “Is it bad to turn your furnace on and off” the potential risks provide a clear answer. The risks of turning off your furnace decrease significantly during the winter. We’ll focus on those consequences since it’s unlikely that you’ll be operating a furnace during the summer.

The main risks of turning off your furnace include:

• Frozen or burst pipes
• Structural damage to your home from contraction and expansion
• Health adversities from decreasing indoor temperatures
• Overworking your furnace when it powers back

Due to these risks, it’s usually best to keep your furnace on.

Alternative Ways of Saving Money on Furnace Operation

Besides turning off your system, there are other ways to reduce the financial impact of your furnace operations. 

You can save money by heating your home at a lower temperature of around 60ºF. At this point, your furnace won’t have to cycle frequently to reach the thermostat setting. Because your furnace still keeps your home above freezing temperatures, though, this setting stops the furnace from overworking when you turn up the heat.

Another strategy is installing heated floors. Since heat rises, heated floors can keep your entire home warm and improve energy efficiency. Furthermore, you won’t have to set your furnace so high to avoid cold feet in the morning. 

Finally, getting a programmable thermostat can lead to significant savings. These systems allow homeowners to set cycling schedules based on their routines and heating needs. As a result, you won’t have to remember to turn down the heat when you leave home for work each morning.

Smartphone and app-based control offers another positive of programmable thermostats. You can use your smart device to optimize the furnace temperature and minimize spending. 

When to Turn Off Your Furnace

While turning off your furnace usually won’t yield positive results, there are certain situations where you could shut down your system. Some of the best times to power your furnace down completely include:

• Through the summer
• While away from any vacation property (so long as you winterized the property beforehand)
• With any signs of dangerous operation or significant disrepair, including gassy scents, strange noises, overheating, electronic ignition issues, and more

It’s essential to turn your furnace off in any emergency situation. If you notice signs of disrepair or concerning issues during operation, turn the furnace off and call professionals immediately. The chemical and mechanical components can pose dangers to your family if they experience severe malfunction.

Problems When Repowering a Furnace

Allowing your furnace to operate while you’re away helps avoid issues that can arise during repowering. When you turn your furnace on again, it could allow excess condensation into your flue and ductwork. Increased condensation can lead to rust, corrosion, and mold formation in your HVAC system.

If you had your furnace off during colder winter months, you might have developed issues with ice dams and frozen pipes without realizing it. After repowering your furnace, these problems could prohibit air from flowing through any part of your HVAC system. Thus, you won’t even be able to obtain the warmth you desperately need.

Finally, turning your furnace on after a period away could overwork your system. Because your furnace will have to work harder to compensate for the low temperature in your home, it could cause issues with system operation and energy efficiency. 

Other Potential Furnace Problems

Turning your furnace off and on is not the only risk to optimal system operation. Fortunately, professionals can easily resolve many of the other common furnace problems with minor repairs and routine maintenance.

Other common furnace problems include:

• Overloading your system
• Dirty air filters
• Heat exchanger malfunctioning
• Damaged, leaky, or poorly installed ductwork
• Thermostat setting and programming issues
• Improperly sized unit for your home

Enlist Top-Rated HVAC Professionals for Furnace Maintenance from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing

Learning about how a gas vs. electric furnace could impact your home comfort can help you decide on the best system for your home. If you’re not sure how to evaluate your furnace options, contact professionals from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. 

As the top-rated HVAC company in Tulsa, OK, we offer customers high-quality workmanship, efficient turnarounds, and excellent customer service. With financing options suitable for every family, we help everyone keep their home comfortable with optimally functioning HVAC systems.

So, is it bad to turn your furnace on and off? For more information about furnace power and cycling issues, call (918) 262-5245 and request top-rated furnace maintenance from Quality Heating, Cooling & Plumbing.