Furnace electrical problems can be tricky. Like any electrical issue, there are risks that come along with troubleshooting a malfunctioning furnace. If you suspect that an issue with your HVAC system is rooted in furnace electrical problems, it is almost always a good idea to contact a heating & air conditioning professional. In fact, electrical issues are a major contributor to home heating fires. So, while these tips can help you diagnose furnace electrical problems yourself, always call in a professional for repairs and deeper diagnostics.
If you are unsure or need HVAC service in the greater St. Louis area, contact our heating & air conditioning professionals, today!
Top 10 Causes of Furnace Electrical Problems
One of the clearest signs that your HVAC issues are rooted in furnace electrical problems is if your furnace keeps blowing fuses when turned on. Otherwise, electrical issues can be tough to detect because the wiring in your HVAC system interacts with so many other components. If the furnace problem is electrical, though, here are a few of the issues you might be dealing with:
- Transformer failure: Many furnaces require a transformer to convert energy into the right voltage for controls and the ignition. When this transformer fails, your heat may only turn on intermittently or not at all. Replacement is usually the only option.
- Bad blower motor: A failing blower motor can cause furnace electrical problems by drawing too much power at once as it tries to maintain enough energy. This generally leads to a blown fuse.
- Clogged air filters: There are many, many reasons to change your air filters often. Among them is the risk that built-up dust and debris will get into the blower motor, potentially causing it to overheat and burn out a fuse. This can be a big fire risk, so clean air filters are very important to a safely functioning HVAC system.
- Contact with water: Water contact causes shortages in electrical circuits, so make sure to look out for leaks near your HVAC unit, and deal with them immediately if they occur. This is also another reason to maintain an ideal home humidity — as enough humidity can contribute to furnace electrical problems.
- Wrong fuse: Your furnace fuse should be rated for the electrical capacity of your furnace. A too-small fuse will blow out more easily, and cause other problems if not addressed.
- Dirty fuse: It is amazing how much damage grime can do to your HVAC system. Fuses too get dirty and, if they are not cleaned, can fail.
- Faulty starting capacitor: If your furnace electrical problems are intermittent, this can be a sign you have a faulty starting capacitor. Replacing this component is an inexpensive fix that will save you a lot of trouble.
- Failing valve: For gas furnaces, valve failures can lead to overheating, which then leads to short circuits.
- Thermostat control wire: Your furnace should be connected to its own fuse without other wiring coming into contact with the furnace’s control board. Accidental contact with external circuits can overload your system and cause furnace electrical problems.
- Loose wires: Finally, the HVAC technician’s least favorite electrical failure is loose wires. As your furnace shakes, wires become loose over time, causing shorts. It can be tough to find exactly which wires are too loose once they become a problem, but regular maintenance inspections of your furnace’s wiring can help prevent loose wiring.
Stay Safe, Call a Professional When it Comes to Furnace Electrical Problems
Not only is there a risk of electrocution and fire involved with troubleshooting furnace electrical problems, but figuring out exactly what is wrong can be tricky. If you suspect any of these problems is causing your furnace to fail, get in touch with your heating & air conditioning service team right away. The good news is that most of these problems can be prevented with regular maintenance and cleaning.
If you suspect electrical problems in your furnace, in the greater St. Louis area, call the experts at Galmiche and Sons today to schedule an appointment.
