Learning All About Oil Furnace Maintenance and Repairs

3 Guidelines To Deal With A Furnace That Keeps Shutting Off

The furnace is the most-priced appliance in your home when the cold season sets in. As such, you need to invest in proper care and maintenance if you want your furnace to serve you well and for a long time. However, if you didn't schedule a maintenance service at the start of the heating season, you probably have problems with the quality of heat and warmth you are experiencing. Mostly, one of the signs that your system is in trouble is if it keeps shutting off when you least expect it. If this is the case, follow these tips to deal with the problem. 

Check Whether the Size of the Unit Is Appropriate

The size of your unit might impact how efficiently it handles heating cycles. Note that short cycling happens when a unit's size and output are inappropriate for the room it's meant to heat. So, when the set temperature kicks in, the machine automatically turns off, which may seem like an excellent way to save energy. However, the short on-and-off cycles eventually damage your system's efficiency and increase the likelihood that its components may break down prematurely. 

Assess the Thermostat for Possible Malfunctions

The thermostat determines how your home's heating system works. In this case, a faulty or malfunctioning thermostat could be to blame for the rapid cycling of your heating system. Note that there are several potential reasons for this device to malfunction, but the most common are issues with the batteries and poor placement. Mostly, the thermostat will have a false reading if it is near a heat source like direct sunlight or a heat register. So, if the unit's operation doesn't improve when you change the batteries in your thermostat, it's time to call in an HVAC service expert to either replace the wiring or move it to a more convenient location. 

Check the Flue Pipe for Possible Soot Buildup

The exhaust vent, also known as the flue pipe, is positioned on the roof and is another potential source of short cycling in your heating system. Mostly, it happens when foreign objects like soot, dirt, and bird nests find their way into the pipe and obstruct its flow. Note that as hot gases build up inside your burner from an obstruction, the temperature will rise to dangerous levels. Since your heater has a safety system, it will shut down if it gets too hot.

Get an HVAC services technician to assess your unit if you have been dealing with short cycling for a while. They will help you determine the source of the problem within the system and resolve it in time.