How does a gas furnace work? Understanding how it operates helps you see the importance of heating maintenance in Claremore, OK.

At Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric, we take safety and comfort seriously. From Heritage Hills Golf Course to Claremore Lake, we keep HVAC systems in working order and offer prompt response times and diligent work.

What Is a Gas Furnace?

A gas furnace is a type of home heating system that uses natural gas or propane rather than electricity. The Washington Post reports that 47% of homes in the United States use natural gas, and 5% use propane to heat their homes.

How Does This Fuel Source Heat a Claremore Home?

So, how does a gas furnace operate? The process uses the following steps:

1. The thermostat detects a temperature lower than you desire and activates the furnace.
2. The inducer motor expels any remaining fumes from the chamber.
3. An electrical spark starts the ignition sequence and activates the burner.
4. The gas valve opens and fills the chamber with the combustion gases.
5. The heat exchanger absorbs the warmth.
6. The blower motor activates, forcing air over the exchanger and heating it.
7. The air travels through the building’s ductwork and into various rooms.
8. The furnace expels byproducts and exhaust, like carbon monoxide, through vents and out of the home.

Older models may have slight variations in how they operate. For example, you’ve likely heard of a pilot light. Outdated heating systems use an open flame for ignition rather than an electrical current.

The Benefits of Investing in a Gas Furnace

How does a gas furnace work? Many homeowners in Claremore choose gas furnaces because they provide the following benefits.

Natural Gas Increases Energy Efficiency

You can’t beat the furnace efficiency of this model. They can operate with up to 97% efficiency, which means they only waste about 3% of the fuel in the process. However, results vary depending on the quality of the exact model.

While they cost more to install than electric models, they’ll save you money in the long run.

The System Has a Longer Life Expectancy

Electric heating systems have an average life expectancy of 20 to 25 years. One of the long-term benefits of installing a gas furnace includes a lifespan approaching 30 years, provided you care for it properly. This makes the initial investment worth it as long as you maintain the system annually.

These Furnaces Create a High Level of Comfort

Gas furnaces heat the air directly, allowing it to reach your desired temperature faster. It also produces more consistent heat throughout the building. With an electric device, homeowners may notice more pockets of lukewarm or cold air.

In a more temperate climate like Claremore, homeowners may only run the heating system consistently for three or four months, reducing the amount of wear and tear on the system.

Reliable Tips for Caring for Your Heating Device and HVAC System

If you’re wondering, “How does a gas furnace work?” understanding the basics can help you adhere to gas furnace safety standards. Implementing the following strategies can help your system last longer and run more efficiently. 

Yearly Maintenance Keeps You Safe and Comfortable

Annual maintenance is the most important thing a property owner can do for their heating system. Regular inspections will help the furnace run more efficiently and prevent repairs from growing into more serious problems. Scheduling a tune-up in the fall will ensure your system is prepared to tackle the coldest months of the year. 

Know the Signs of a Gas Leak

Since this type of heating system operates on natural gas or propane, leaks are a big concern. If you smell sulfur or rotten eggs, exit the house and call Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric. This odor likely means you have a natural gas leak, and you shouldn’t delay getting the system inspected.

Keep the Ducts and Vents Clear

Blocked vents and dirty ducts force the HVAC system to work harder, increasing wear and tear. Schedule duct cleaning at least every three years, and keep furniture and curtains away from vents. Also, clean your air filter at least once a month.

Schedule Prompt Service for Your Claremore Heating System

How does a gas furnace work? The professionals at Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric have extensive experience working on all types of furnaces and can help you learn more about the causes of furnace switch failure. Rely on us to keep your system running efficiently.

We’re standing by 24/7, so call our expert team today to schedule an appointment. 

Has your utility bill increased lately? Is your carbon monoxide detector sounding its alarm at times? Your furnace might produce too much air for its own good. 

What is excess air in a furnace? Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric provides trusted plumbing, electrical, and HVAC services in Sperry, OK. We’ll explore this topic in-depth below so you know how to handle it. 

How the Furnace Heats a Building

Let’s cover the basics of how furnaces work. Your furnace initiates combustion to generate heat and airflow. Combustion relies on a balanced combination of oxygen and ignited fuel. Too little oxygen during combustion produces toxic gaseous by-products, like carbon monoxide, while keeping the heat contained in the furnace. 

Too much oxygen can also result in carbon monoxide but cools the heat and tempers combustion instead. What is excess air in a furnace, and how do you know when it develops? You’ll find the answer below. 

What Is Excess Air in a Furnace?

You’ve already established that excess air in combustion causes heating problems. Technically, all furnaces have a little excess air because reducing the excess is impossible. However, the furnace typically draws the excess out of the combustion chamber before it ignites its fuel. 

If the furnace’s combustion efficiency drops, the extra oxygen sticks around, creating excess air in the furnace. Basically, your furnace can’t use or get rid of this air for one reason or another. It hampers overall efficiency and can cause other HVAC problems. 

How Does Excess Air Develop in Your Sperry Heating System?

Most excess air comes from the air we already breathe. In other words, the extra oxygen just exists all around you and, therefore, inside your furnace. HVAC technicians in Sperry, Oklahoma, use a mathematical formula to determine what too much air looks like for different heating systems and can tweak the equipment for optimal heat transfer efficiency and safety. 

But what is excess air in a furnace, and how can you recognize the symptoms?

• Monitor the temperature in different areas. Cold spots in some rooms might indicate that hot air isn’t making its way to those areas. 
• Keep an eye on your utility bills. Excess air almost always forces the furnace to work much harder than necessary. 
• Make sure your carbon monoxide detector works. Regular detector tests ensure the device works and picks up on CO rises.  
• Take note of strong odors coming from vents or near your furnace storage. Faulty combustion often releases sharp, acrid smells that resemble vinegar or formaldehyde. 
• Take a peek at your furnace flames. If ignition flames only partially encircle the burners, the excess oxygen may have blown them out. 
• Feel for vibrations. When the furnace cycles, does it vibrate dramatically? Repetitive, jerky movements mean prohibitive issues. 
• Listen for new noises. If you hear popping, slamming, or hissing sounds during cycles, turn off your furnace and report the problem to your HVAC company in Sperry, Oklahoma.

The above-listed symptoms might mean too much air or another heating problem. Both scenarios require professional repair services. 

Can Your Furnace Get Too Little Air?

What is excess air in a furnace? Now that you know about too much air, let’s discuss too little and how it impacts energy efficiency in furnaces. Oxygen keeps the fuel burning and producing heat. 

When a furnace can’t move sufficient air over its burners, it cannot transfer enough heat to warm a home. That means you’ll run out of fuel without the needed ignition to produce sustained warmth. Like excess air, this issue increases carbon monoxide levels that can infiltrate your home in Sperry, Oklahoma. 

How Do HVAC Technicians Fix Excess Air?

We mentioned above that HVAC technicians use a mathematical equation to determine furnace heat output and configure a proper excess air adjustment. When you contact yours, they’ll measure the system output and test the number of parts per million running through your combustion chamber. 

Then, they’ll use the equation to determine how much oxygen currently inhabits the chamber and what the ideal amount is. They’ll adjust various parts, like fuel outputs and burner positions, to achieve a safe and efficient oxygen level. 

Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric Has a Fix for Your Furnace in Sperry, Oklahoma

What is excess air in a furnace? You learned all about this topic above. Next, check out the most common causes of furnace switch failure. Contact Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric for your HVAC needs in Sperry, Oklahoma.

Cold spots are one of the most common reasons homeowners call Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric for help with their home heating systems. When some rooms are constantly colder than others, it’s reasonable to suspect an issue with the furnace, thermostat, or other component. However, if the mechanical elements of the heating system are working, the cold spots are likely the result of a heat distribution issue. 

We’re proud to provide top-notch heating service in Kiefer, OK, and help local homeowners enjoy consistent warmth in every room. In many cases, eliminating cold spots only requires a few minor adjustments. 

Maintain the Perfect Temperature Balance in Your Kiefer Home With These Simple Tips

While HVAC design flaws and equipment malfunctions can affect air circulation and prevent even heat distribution, sometimes the issue isn’t quite as complex. Changing how you use and maintain the system can make a big difference in heat distribution. Try these tips to improve airflow and keep every corner of your Kiefer home comfortable. 

Adjust the Air Vents

First things first: Are all the air vents throughout your home open and free of obstructions? Closed and blocked air vents are one of the most common reasons for uneven heating. 

If a room is too cold, make sure that the vents are open and air is flowing freely from them. Avoid blocking them with furniture, drapes, or other items, and use the vacuum to clear away any dust or pet hair that’s inhibiting airflow. 

Adjusting the air vents can also help when rooms feel overly warm. While you shouldn’t close the vent entirely (doing so can damage the ductwork and furnace), partially closing them can reduce the amount of heat flowing into the space. This improves heat distribution by redirecting the extra airflow to open vents.

Switch to a Smart Thermostat

Smart thermostats are revolutionizing the way Kiefer residents control their indoor comfort, and switching to one of these devices can help maintain an ideal temperature balance and improve the heating system’s efficiency.

A smart thermostat lets you schedule automatic temperature adjustments from anywhere throughout the day. It can “learn” your preferred heating settings and adjust them accordingly, ensuring that your home interior will always be just right regardless of the outside temperature.

Use the Fan’s “On” Setting 

Many Kiefer homeowners keep their HVAC system fan on the “Auto” setting, but this halts air circulation when the heater isn’t running. This is why you feel hot and cold spots in different areas of your home. 

Leaving the fan in the “On” setting instead keeps the air moving even when the heater isn’t running. This supports better heat distribution and a more consistent temperature in every room. 

Invest in High-Quality Insulation 

Upgrading the attic insulation requires an investment, but it can reduce heating bills and make your home feel more comfortable in every season. If the attic is old, inadequate, or damaged, it may be allowing hot air to escape, wasting energy and keeping your home from feeling warm. Upgrading the insulation can also help reduce cooling bills in the summer, so it’s worth the investment. If new insulation isn’t in the budget right now, you can help reduce heat loss by blocking drafts around windows and doors.

Keep Up With HVAC Maintenance 

Finally, one of the best ways to ensure even heat distribution and prevent excessive wear and tear on your heater is to stay on track with professional maintenance. Scheduling a professional tune-up and system inspection before winter gets into full swing helps you avoid problems and emergency repairs. The technician will inspect the ductwork in addition to the furnace or boiler, ensuring there aren’t any leaks or damage that force the system to work harder.

Air duct cleaning can also help distribute air more evenly throughout your home. Removing dust and debris from the air channels helps ensure air can move freely.

Improve Air Flow With Help From Kiefer’s HVAC Experts 

If you’re dealing with uneven heating in your Kiefer, OK, home, try some of the basic troubleshooting tips from Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric. Chances are, you’ll notice a significant improvement in heat distribution and a more comfortable and consistent temperature in every room. 

If these suggestions don’t work, or you suspect that you have more significant heating system problems, don’t hesitate to call us for help. We’re proud to help our neighbors solve even the trickiest heating and cooling problems, so don’t wait for help. 

When winter’s cold winds start blowing, it feels good knowing that your heater will keep your home cozy. No one wants to worry about the furnace going out in the middle of a frigid night. Thankfully, if the system is on the verge of breaking down, it will show warning signs so you can take care of the problem before it turns into an emergency. 

Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric provides reliable heating services in Kellyville, OK, and we see the same heater issues time and time again. Staying alert to these clues of impending trouble can help prevent a heating failure and keep your home warm and safe. 

Call a Kellyville Heating Professional If You Notice These Indications of Heating Malfunctions

Heating systems typically don’t fail without warning. There are almost always hints of trouble brewing, and the sooner you respond to them, the less likely it is you’ll have to deal with an inconvenient breakdown and huge repair bills. 

With that in mind, don’t ignore these heater issues, signs, and symptoms. 

Inconsistent Heating 

Are you constantly adjusting the thermostat because it’s too cold or too hot? Do some rooms feel much colder than others? Does it seem like there isn’t much air flowing from the vents? 

Any time the heater doesn’t produce even and reliable warmth, there’s something wrong somewhere in the system. Poor heating and temperature fluctuations, for example, often mean the thermostat is malfunctioning, while weak airflow or cold spots are often signs of faulty ductwork or a failing blower motor. 

Strange Sounds or Smells 

You’re accustomed to the noises that your heating system makes when it’s running. That’s why you probably take notice when it makes strange noises, like banging, squealing, screeching, rattling, or humming. Unusual noises are one of the earliest indications of heater issues and can mean anything from a loose screw to an electrical issue or part that’s in imminent danger of failure. 

Equally concerning for Kellyville homeowners is the sudden appearance of unusual odors. A new smell often means serious trouble that requires immediate attention. A gas or oil smell, for instance, often means there’s a leak in the system, which is a dangerous situation for everyone. 

Other smells don’t necessarily spell imminent peril, but they still need addressing. A persistent burning smell might signal overheating components or a problem with the wiring, while a musty odor often means there is mold somewhere in the system. 

Short Cycling 

Short cycling means that the system turns on and off repeatedly without actually producing much (or any) heat and is a surefire sign of a malfunction somewhere in the system. It might occur with other heater issues and signs, and, in some cases, the system will turn off entirely until you repair it. 

Sometimes, short cycling occurs because the system is the wrong size for your Kellyville home, but it’s more likely that the culprit is a malfunctioning thermostat or a clogged air filter. In any case, because the constant cycling puts more wear and tear on the equipment, prompt attention is a must. 

Increasing Energy Bills 

Energy costs are on the rise, even in Kellyville, but a sudden, unexpected, and substantial increase in your monthly expenses should give you pause. When the costs spike without a subsequent increase in usage, that can be a sign that your heating system isn’t working as efficiently as it once did. This might be due to age, but there may be something else happening with the equipment that’s forcing it to work harder. 

Ignition and Pilot Light Problems 

If it doesn’t seem like the furnace is kicking on when it should, or it doesn’t stay on, there could be a problem with the pilot light or ignition. One obvious clue of an issue is a discolored pilot light. The flame should always burn a steady blue color; if it’s yellow, orange, or any other color, something’s wrong, and your heater needs professional service. 

Keep Your Kellyville Home Warm: Don’t Delay Heating Repairs 

Spotting heater issues signs is just the beginning of keeping your Kellyville, OK, home comfortable when the temperatures drop. You need to take action to not only get the heat flowing again but also to ensure the longevity and efficiency of your equipment. Get in touch with Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric at the first sign of heating system problems, and enjoy reliable warmth without the risk of ongoing trouble or premature furnace replacement. 

You need a reliable heating system when January comes to Creek County, OK, with an average low temperature of 25°. What should you do if your current heating system is no longer reliable or efficient? “Should I repair or replace my furnace?” is a common dilemma for many homeowners. 

If you crank up the heating but still shiver indoors, it’s time to reassess the situation. Can repair save the day, or is it time to upgrade your heating system?

How Old Is Your Heating System?

All appliances, including air conditioners, furnaces, and water heaters eventually need replacement. A heating system that’s 15-20 years old is probably nearing the end of its productive life. Although some furnaces and boilers may last up to 30 years, an older heating system is a lot likelier to give you trouble.

Regular maintenance can extend your heating system’s life. Fall is the best time for a heating inspection in Kellyville, OK, to ensure your furnace is ready for the winter and catch any issues before they become too difficult or expensive to fix. Nevertheless, even a well-maintained system will fail at some point.

How Much Would Repair vs. Replacement Cost?

When considering whether to repair or replace your furnace, look into each option’s costs. Some heating system issues, like a worn-out blower motor belt or leaky ductwork, are fairly easy to fix. Others, like a major compressor or motor failure, may mean that replacing the unit would be a more practical choice.

Many HVAC professionals advise the 50% rule: if potential repair costs approach 50% of what you’d pay for an upgrade, it’s better to invest in a new system. 

Also, consider how much you’ve already paid for heating services in Kellyville, OK. If your heating system needs constant troubleshooting, you’ll be better off with a new unit that will run smoothly for years with basic upkeep. 

Are Your Energy Bills Rising in Kellyville, OK?

The average household in Kellyville, OK, spends around $187 a month on energy. These amounts may be significantly higher in December through February when your heating system works overtime. 

An old, outdated heating system will lose efficiency. Degraded components, heat loss, and air leaks may mean that your furnace wastes a lot of energy to keep your home comfortable. If your energy bills keep climbing during the winter even though you don’t run your heating system more than usual, it’s time for a furnace inspection. 

If you still aren’t sure whether to repair or replace your furnace, consider that newer heating systems offer much better Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE). In simple words, they waste far less energy when converting fuel into heat. The money you save on energy bills may offset your new heating unit’s cost.

Does Your Heating System Show Major Signs of Wear?

Do you notice a lot of rust, soot, or visible wear and tear when you look at your heating unit? Does your furnace make weird banging noises or give off strange smells? These are bad signs. Your furnace may kick the bucket soon, and if it happens on a freezing weekend, you’ll likely pay a steep emergency service fee. 

It’s much better to be proactive and replace your heating system while it’s still working. Moreover, an aging furnace can become a safety hazard if its heat exchanger cracks. This could create a dangerous carbon monoxide leak. A cracked heat exchanger usually means you should replace the whole system ASAP.

Are You Always Cold or Uncomfortable?

When your heating system underperforms, your indoor comfort suffers. You may notice that your home takes too long to warm up and never reaches the right temperature. Some areas may also constantly feel colder or hotter than others.

Moreover, a failing heating system may harm your indoor air quality. A struggling heat exchanger may fail to control humidity, which could lead to moisture buildup and mold growth. Deteriorating furnace components could release toxic compounds or emit bad odors. At this point, a heating system upgrade is usually a smart choice.

Furnace Troubles? Call Your Local Heating System Pros in Kellyville, OK

Are you grappling with the question of, “Should I repair or replace my furnace?” Contact us at Quality Heating, Cooling, Plumbing & Electric.

Our HVAC pros will look into your heating system’s issues, like the reasons behind your furnace’s burning smell, and let you know whether repairs or a new installation would be a better solution for your home in Kellyville, OK. Schedule a service call today.