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Common AC Replacement Parts

Air Filters: The unsung hero of your AC system, the air filter traps dust, pollen, and other contaminants. A clogged filter restricts airflow, reducing efficiency and putting strain on the system.

• Signs of a problem: Weak airflow, unusual noises, increased energy bills.
• Solution: Regular filter replacement is essential. Check your filter every month and replace it as needed.

Compressor: The heart of your AC unit, the compressor circulates refrigerant. When it fails, your AC stops cooling altogether.

• Signs of a problem: Unit doesn’t turn on, strange noises, overheating.
• Solution: Compressor replacement is a major expense, often indicating the end of your AC’s life.

Condenser Coils: Located outside, condenser coils exchange heat with the outdoor air. Over time, they can become dirty or damaged, reducing efficiency.

• Signs of a problem: Reduced cooling, increased energy consumption, frozen evaporator coils.
• Solution: Regular cleaning and inspection can extend the life of your condenser coils. In severe cases, replacement may be necessary.

Evaporator Coils: Inside the unit, evaporator coils absorb heat from indoor air. Like condenser coils, they can become dirty or damaged, affecting performance.

• Signs of a problem: Frozen evaporator coils, poor cooling, unusual noises.
• Solution: Regular maintenance and cleaning can prevent issues. If damaged, replacement may be required.

Blower Motor: The blower motor circulates air through the system. If it fails, your AC won’t blow cold air.

• Signs of a problem: No airflow, unusual noises, burning smell.
• Solution: Blower motor replacement is often necessary when the motor fails.

When to Call a Professional

If you suspect any of these parts are failing, it’s essential to call a qualified HVAC technician for diagnosis and repair. Ignoring issues can lead to more significant problems and higher costs.

Regular maintenance and timely repairs can help extend the life of your AC unit and ensure optimal performance.

What Happens When You Call for AC Part Replacement

Once you realize your AC unit needs a replacement part, contacting a professional HVAC technician is crucial. Here’s a general overview of what to expect:

• Initial Contact: When you call the HVAC company, a knowledgeable representative will gather information about your AC unit, the issue you’re experiencing, and your contact details.
• Scheduling an Appointment: The company will schedule a convenient time for a technician to visit your home and diagnose the problem.
• On-Site Diagnosis: The technician will inspect your AC unit to identify the faulty part and assess the extent of the damage. They will also provide a detailed estimate for the replacement part and labor costs.
• Part Ordering and Installation: If you approve the estimate, the company will order the necessary replacement part. Once it arrives, the technician will schedule a time to install it.
• Testing and Completion: After installing the new part, the technician will test the AC unit to ensure it’s functioning correctly. They will also clean up the work area and provide any necessary instructions for ongoing care.

Call us today at (410) 921-1277 for fast and effective air conditioner parts replacement in Severn and Baltimore, MD!

Choose Rocky HVAC for Your Local HVAC Technician

Although maintenance plans have an upfront cost, they can save you money in the long run by avoiding major repairs or premature replacements. However, not all maintenance plans are created equal. Make sure to read the fine print and understand exactly what services are included in the plan.

But even if an HVAC maintenance plan isn’t right for you, we’re still here to serve you whenever you need us. Whether you’re seeking HVAC repair, a new system, or something else, give us a call at (410) 921-1277 or connect with us online to learn how we can help.

Call You Local HVAC Specialists in Severn and Baltimore, MD

In conclusion, the benefits of regular HVAC filter replacement extend beyond improved air quality to include enhanced system efficiency, reduced allergens and irritants, extended system lifespan, and compliance with manufacturer recommendations. By incorporating filter replacement into your routine HVAC maintenance plan, you can enjoy cleaner indoor air and lower energy costs while prolonging the life of your HVAC system. If you need HVAC maintenance in a city near me, reach out to the local HVAC professionals at Rocky HVAC. We offer inspections, installations, maintenance plans, and more. Dial (410) 921-1277 or connect with us online to learn how we can help.

What Types of Commercial Freezer Replacement Parts are Available?

This will depend on a few factors about your existing commercial freezer. Replacement parts may be available based on the age and brand of the existing freezer.  Some commercial freezer replacement parts can include: 

• Gaskets
• Hinges
• Hardware
• V-Rollers
• Drain Elbow Grommet
• Filter Drier
• Hinge Pin Stop
• Rubber Door Closer 
• Roller Bearing Assembly
• Shelf Clips
• Thermostat
• Belts
• Motors
• Blowers
• Compressor
• Condenser coils
• Capillary tube 
• Evaporator
• Hoses
• Refrigerant lines
• … and more like assorted screws, nuts, and bolts

Are All Commercial Freezer Replacement Parts Compatible? 

This is a question left to those in the industry of commercial freezers! They will have cross-references for which commercial freezer replacement parts can be interchanged, much in the same way as the automotive industry experts can exchange parts. Some brands will use the same type of casters and thermostats, some have commercial freezer replacement parts that are proprietary to their brand.  And within each brand, each model may have different parts. 

Where Can I Purchase Commercial Freezer Replacement Parts? 

There are commercial appliance dealers and repair centers in most major cities. You can also purchase them online through numerous websites, including the manufacturers of every commercial freezer. Replacement parts may be available when you call, or they may need to order the part from the manufacturer.

How Long Does it Take for Commercial Freezer replacement parts to arrive? 

The past two to three years have caused delays in many things, including commercial freezer replacement parts.  If the parts are from overseas, it will take longer than those that are available state-side. When purchasing a new commercial freezer, inquire if they are manufactured in the United States and that will help you know the approximate turn-around time on commercial freezer replacement parts. 

Do Commercial Freezer Replacement Parts Have a Warranty?

Yes, the blower, compressor, motor, thermostat, and other key parts will typically have a 90-day warranty.  Other parts are typically covered by a 30-day warranty. When purchasing commercial freezer replacement parts, it is recommended to verify the warranty offered by that entity. Purchasing directly from the manufacturer could have a longer warranty.

Are Any Special Tools Required to Install Commercial Freezer Replacement Parts?

Yes, in addition to the basics like screwdrivers and wrenches, there is special equipment for measuring and installing refrigerant. Certain tools may be needed for connecting the refrigeration line too. This equipment and tools that most professional contractors have on hand as a part of their job. 

Are There Any Instructions or Tutorials Available to Install Commercial Freezer Replacement Parts?

Yes, the commercial freezer replacement parts will usually come with some type of instructions. You can also find instructions and tutorials online through the freezer manufacturer or the websites if you purchase the parts online. 

In Closing 

Repairing commercial freezers takes some experience and knowledge, especially when it comes to the pounds and pressure of the refrigerant. Most commercial freezers will be under the scrutiny of the local health department, meaning the temperature will need to be at the appropriate setting and reading for the products stored.

As a restaurant owner or manager of a hospital or industrial kitchen, this can jeopardize the safety of those who dine in your location. To be certain your commercial freezer is in proper working order and the commercial freezer replacement parts are installed correctly, have the work done by a professional. This will come with a guarantee and warranty, so if there is any issue, you’ll have recourse to make the matter right.

What does gas smell like?

A chemical, Mercaptan, is added to gas when it is mined from the ground. Mercaptan gives the gas an odor like rotten eggs or a skunk. Other indicators of a possible gas leak are how it can affect the persons in the area which include: 

• Confusion
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Nausea
• Weakness

.. and in the worst-case scenario, death

What should I do if I smell gas coming from my furnace? 

With a gas furnace, the thermostat triggers the heating cycle to start, which causes the gas supply valve to release the gas to enter the combustion chamber. There, the pilot light ignites the gas in a matter of 1 to 2 seconds. The smell of the gas is present at that moment but dissipates quickly.

If the smell is still present longer than a second or two, or during the heating cycle, then it is possible that a professional inspection for gas furnace repair and replacement is needed. You should get everyone out of the house, evacuate to a safe place and call 911 immediately. That odor created by the mercaptan should not be constant in the house. 

How often should I have my gas furnace serviced?

Appliance experts advise having a professional inspection to determine if gas furnace repair and replacement are needed a minimum of every 2 years. For a central HVAC system with a gas furnace, the air ducts should be inspected every 3 years to ensure the system is operating correctly and smoothly. For an older unit, every year is recommended for a gas furnace, and the repair and replacement needed can become more prominent. 

What are the most common signs that my gas furnace needs to be repaired? 

It is important to schedule gas furnace repair and replacement when needed. This isn’t something to postpone and the 7 indications that you need a professional inspection to determine if you possibly need gas furnace gas repair and replacements include: 

1. ABNORMAL ODORS

The first time you turn your gas furnace on every year, it is normal to notice some odor as it burns off dust. That odor should dissipate within a few seconds. If you’re noticing that odor longer after the initial burning, get the system professionally inspected for possible gas furnace repair and replacement is needed. 

2. DIFFICULT START UP

As a gas furnace ages, the starting process can become more difficult, and if the unit doesn’t stay running, it is time to have a professional inspect the unit for possible gas furnace repair and replacement is needed. 

3. DISCOLORED GAS 

If the gas from the pilot light is yellowish, you need to schedule a professional inspection. Repair is possibly all that is needed, but depending on the age, a professional can determine which is best between gas furnace repair and replacement.

4. HEATING INADEQUATE

An obvious sign that you need either a gas furnace repair or replacement assessment is when the furnace isn’t heating the house thoroughly. 

5. CONSTANT NOISES

A gas furnace isn’t going to be 100% quiet, but it should not make constant loud noises. Schedule an inspection with a professional to determine what is needed between gas furnace repair and replacement. 

6. CARBON-MONOXIDE DETECTOR Is TRIPPED

Either the HVAC system will be equipped with a carbon monoxide detector, or you should have one installed in the area of the furnace. If this detector is tripped and the alarm goes off, open all the windows, and call for professional service to inspect the gas furnace. Repair and replacements are both possible options. 

How much does it cost to repair a gas furnace?

The cost of gas furnace repair can vary based on the make and model of the furnace as well as the age and the problem. A professional HVAC service technician will inspect the system and advise their recommendation for the best results. 

What should I look for when considering a gas furnace replacement? 

The first thing to consider when choosing between gas furnace repair and replacements is the number of service calls you’ve had over the past year. The age of the system is a key factor to consider as well. Typically, a gas furnace that has been properly maintained will need to be replaced within 12 to 15 years. 

What should I do if my gas furnace isn’t working?

Turn both the electrical and gas power off to the furnace and call a professional service. If a gas furnace isn’t working, it is important to have any type of power turned off for safety. 

How can I maximize the efficiency and lifespan of my gas furnace?

There are five things you can do that will extend your gas furnace’s lifespan: 

• Replace the air filter every 30 days.
• Have the ductwork inspected and cleaned every 3 years.
• Set the ceiling fans to rotate clockwise to keep the heated air down.
• Invest in a programmable thermostat.
• Have routine professional inspection and maintenance done.

Getting Heated Up: What are the advantages of installing a new gas furnace?

The cost of gas furnace repair and replacement is always a concern for any homeowner. When the time comes for a replacement, you want to justify the expense. A few examples of justification include:

• Your home will be heated more efficiently, using less power, and saving money.
• The airflow will be improved, especially if the air ducts are inspected for repair or replacement is done at the same time.
• Newer models are going to be more eco-friendly.
• Repair costs will be minimized, even eliminated for some time.
• A new gas furnace will operate quietly.

If you find that you need gas furnace repair in Severn and Baltimore, MD, please feel free to get in touch with our HVAC repair company at __PHONE__.

When clogged or damaged though, they can’t do their job, and like the arteries in our bodies, air duct repair and sealing are needed to get the air conditioning pumping through the system again. This is a job best left to professionals, but if you’re able and willing to climb through an attic, you can do your own air duct repairs. 

You’ll want to make sure you have the proper tools and the correct type of air duct sealer before you get up in the attic though. So, what do you use to seal ductwork? There are a couple of different methods you can use for air duct repair jobs, among those are these three: 

Duct Sealing Tape

Air duct repairs can be done using tape. What kind of tape do you use for ductwork? There is specifically designed HVAC air duct sealing tape, which you may find under aluminum foil tape. This is not the same as the duct tape you may be familiar with used to repair a vinyl seat. This is specifically designed for air duct repair and if available at any hardware or home improvement store. It doesn’t take as much time as the other methods we’ll discuss and isn’t messy. However, it doesn’t have the longevity of the other methods either. 

Mastic Duct Sealant

This is a water-based method for air duct repair and is the better option. It cleans up easily and has a longer lifespan than the duct sealing tape described above.  Applied using a paintbrush or caulking gun. 

Aeroseal Duct Sealant

For DIY air duct repair job, mastic is the best option for a cost-effective and durable method. But in areas that are difficult to reach, it can tricky, and that is when the aerosol method is better.  With this method of air duct repair, it can get in those areas you can’t reach to apply tape and it will get to the areas you can’t see too. 

How long does duct sealant take to dry?

Following the manufacturer’s instructions is always recommended. Most say to allow twenty-four hours, but that isn’t always possible, especially when the humidity and temperatures are climbing in the summer. 

That is when you go with the “touch and check” method to see if it is dry, but experienced HVAC air duct repair technicians do recommend waiting a minimum of thirty minutes. If the air ducts are properly insulated or in a space that is conditioned to prevent sweating, the air duct repair sealant will be dry to the touch within 30 minutes. 

How do I find a leak in my air duct?

The most common place for air duct leaks is at the joints where the tubes connect. Turn the HVAC on and head to the attic. Place your hands at each joint, feeling all the way around the ducts. If the connections are loose or broken, you can do your own air duct repair by applying the HVAC aluminum tape around the joints. 

Another method for finding air duct leaks while the HVAC system is on is to take an incense stick to the attic and steadily run it along the air ducts. If you notice any smoke movement, this is an indication the air ducts are leaking and may need air duct sealing from the inside. You can attempt to do your own air duct repair using the aerosol method we described above, or it may be time to call for professional air duct cleaning and sealing service. 

How do I stop condensation in my air ducts?

To avoid duct condensation, the following steps will help minimize the problem: 

• Reduce the Humidity Level: Air ducts should be spaced out, so they have good airflow around them. If your air ducts are in the crawlspace under your home, covering up the soil under them will reduce the moisture. If they are in the attic, you may need more insulation added to the attic. 
• Keep Air Ducts Clean and Clear: Have your air ducts professionally cleaned. While the technician is cleaning them, they will make sure there isn’t any blockage, which should eliminate any condensation. 
• Change the Air Filters:  Make sure you’re changing or cleaning your air filter every 30 days. If there is still condensation forming, you may need to do this every 14 days instead. 
• Air Duct Repairs: Keep up with air duct repairs! The more your air conditioning is leaking through the air ducts, the more condensation you’ll have. 

What are the types of heating systems?

There are different types of heating systems to choose from, each with its own set of pros and cons. Five of the heating systems to choose from are: 

• Forced Air Systems: Referred to as “central heating”, this is the most common option for residential homes, retail stores, and larger commercial structures. The air is heated in a furnace then forced through air ducts that are within the attic and walls to various registers and vents through the home or structure.  This forced-air system can be powered by electricity, fuel oil, natural gas, or propane, which is one reason it is so common and popular. Heating replacement parts are readily available, and in most cases, a DIY homeowner can do many of the repairs themselves. 
• Electric Systems: This heating system is common where fuel oil, natural gas, or propane aren’t available. Typically installed in the baseboard and controlled by a thermostat or as individual units that are individually controlled. 
• Geothermal Systems: This is an energy-efficient option that uses the heat and water from the earth, with electrical power to send the heat throughout the structure. 
• Radiant Heat Systems: In homes and structures with a boiler, this option for heating is common. A boiler heats the water then sends it through tubes under the floor and distributes heat, where it radiates upward through the floors. 
• Steam Radiant Heat Systems: This heating system is found in older homes and structures with each room having a radiator. Heating replacement parts for this type of heating system is difficult as it has become obsolete. 

What is the most common type of heating system?

The forced air system mentioned above is the most common in the Baltimore area. Of all the heating replacement parts for this type of heating system, the filter is the most common part that must be replaced every 30 days. There are other heating replacement parts that a homeowner with DIY skills can replace or call for professional service is convenient with many licensed contractors in the area.

How do I know if my heater blower motor is bad?

Here are five sure-fire indicators the blower motor is bad in your heating system: 

1. Poor or Airflow 

The first thing to check is the air filter. If you haven’t changed it in some time, it can be clogged up and stop the airflow. If you have changed the air filter, the blower motor could be clogged with dirt and dust, causing it to malfunction. If the blower motor has overheated, has been exposed to moisture, or at the end of its life expectancy, you’ll need to purchase or have a licensed HVAC technician install a new one. These are available where other common heating replacement parts are available.

2. No Airflow 

If there isn’t any air coming from the air vents when the heat is turned on, this is usually a broken blower motor. Again, where other heating replacement parts are found, you can purchase a replacement blower motor. A licensed HVAC technician can inspect and test the blower motor and determine it is a bad relay, the thermostat is faulty, or it may be the fan. 

3. Energy Bills Increased

The blower motor is a vital component in your HVAC system and it is the one part that consumes the most energy. If the blower motor is clogged or malfunctioning, it is using more energy because it is working harder. 

4. Strange Noises 

A heating system will make some noises, which you will get accustomed to hearing. However, if you’re hearing strange sounds when the heating system turns on, like clanking, rattling, screeching, or squealing, you may need one or more heating replacement parts like the blower motor or fan. 

5. Overheating and Weird Smells

If the blower motor is overheating, you’ll know by a burning smell when the heat turns on.  Another sign is if the blower stops while the heat is running. 

What are the signs of a bad furnace capacitor?

The capacitor is one of the more common heating replacement parts. It regulates the electricity going to the fan, a small but very important part. There are four things that can wrong with your furnace that indicate the capacitor is the heating replacement parts needed: 

HUMMING NOISES: If the capacitor isn’t functioning right, it will make strange sounds like a low hum when you turn the furnace on. After the humming, warm air may start blowing, or if the capacitor is bad, it will just keep humming.

CLICKING SOUNDS: When a furnace is working right, you can hear a clicking sound when it starts. However, if the capacitor is malfunctioning, you’ll hear constant clicking and the furnace never cuts on. 

SHORT-CYCLING: When the capacitor is going out, the furnace turns on but overheats quick because the capacitor isn’t regulating the electricity. 

LACK OF HEATING: A bad capacitor can be determined if there is no heat coming from the furnace at all, even after turning it up a few degrees. There are other issues that can keep a furnace from heating that would require heating replacement parts, like the thermostat. 

So, when the thermostat is not working you may need to purchase heating replacement parts. You should turn the thermostat up a few degrees and see if the heat cuts on. If not, change the batteries in the thermostat and if that doesn’t help, it is time to replace the unit. 

What heating replacement parts could be needed if the furnace is blowing cold air? There are 4 possibilities for a furnace to be blowing cold air: 

1.    The thermostat is turned off or set to “cool” instead of “heat”.

2.    The furnace fuel is low, the gas is turned off, or the breaker is turned off. 

3.    The furnace ignition has malfunctioned, or the pilot light is out. 

4.    The air filter is clogged or dirty and restricts the airflow. 

What does it mean when the furnace is leaking water?

If you have a high-efficiency furnace, it releases exhaust gases, which creates condensation. Condensation is caused by the moisture built up in the PVC pipe and should drain into a drain pan. If the drain pan is full or the PVC pipe is clogged, the condensation will spill over into the floor. You can empty and clean the drain pan or clear the PVC pipe of any clog should fix the problem with needing any heating replacement parts.

What is the recommended time for how often to replace ductwork? 

If you have routine inspections on the ductwork, the technicians can make repairs as needed and keep the ductwork in good condition.  Ductwork can last up to 20 years, with 15 years being the average period to have it replaced. 

What about the heat exchanger, what are the recommendations when to replace the heat exchanger? With a well-maintained heating system, the heat exchanger can have a 20-year life expectancy. 

Proper maintenance and upkeep are important to have a functioning heating system. Unfortunately, sometimes furnaces break down, develop problems, and misfunction or stop altogether. The following steps will help guide you through possible heating system repairs you can do yourself:

1. Check the Filter

The furnace filter can dirty over time, so the first step in heating system repair is to check the filter. Dirt and dust will clog the filter, impede the airflow, lower the indoor air quality. If it is clogged long enough, it will keep the furnace from turning on. So, if you’re asking, “Why is my heat not kicking on?”, check the air filter! 

2. Check the thermostat

Once you know the filter is clean, the step in DIY heating system repair is to check the thermostat with this process:

• Check the setting is on “heat” then set five degrees higher than the existing room temperature. If it cuts on, you have saved yourself a heating system repair bill. 
• If that didn’t turn the heat on, replace the batteries in the thermostat.
• If still not heat turning on, open the thermostat and gently dust the inside with a soft brush around the contacts and metal coils.

3. Check the Electrical Panel and Switch

The next step in heating system repair is to check the power. Make sure the system is switched to “on” and if it is and still not turning on, time to check the electric panel. 

• Check that the power is on at the breaker box.
• A correctly labeled breaker box will make this easy. Flip the HVAC breaker to on. If it isn’t marked, you can tell by which way the switch is flipped. If it is in the off position, flip it on. 
• If there are discolored fuse or melted wires, you’ll need to call for a professional heating system repair service.
• Of if you try all the above and the still isn’t turning on, you’ll need to call a heating system repair service. 

4. Check furnace flame

With a gas-powered furnace, there should be a blue flame at the pilot light. If there isn’t a flame, check there is gas getting to the furnace then re-light the pilot light. If the flame is any color other than blue, you need professional heating system repair.

How do I test my heating system?

Raise the temperature 5 degrees above the current room temperature, the heat should turn on. Wait 2 to 3 minutes and check one to two of the registers on each floor. The temperature should read 45°F to 80°F degrees higher than the indoor air temperature.

What causes a heating system to stop working?

There are five basic reasons why your heater may have stopped working: 

• Poor Maintenance – have you changed or cleaned the filter every 30 days?
• The Thermostat – the batteries may need replacing, the thermostat may need replacing.
• Blower Capacitor – this can happen as a furnace gets older. A professional heating system repair call will get this fixed. 
• Refrigerant Levels Low – the refrigerant is for the AC, but when it is too low, it can affect the heating system too.
• Faulty Ductwork – if the ductwork has broken or collapsed, the heat can’t get distributed through the house. 

Why is my heater blowing cold air? 

The most common reason is the air filter is clogged and dirty. Change or clean the filter, replaced it and see if you have warm air again. Other issues that can cause a heater to blow cold air are:

• Mechanical Failure – you’ll need professional heating system repair service.
• Air Duct Failure – this could be a broken or collapsed duct. Call a professional air duct company for this heating system repair. 
• Thermostat – it may have been turned off, the batteries are bad, or the unit itself is broken.
• Condensation Line – make sure it isn’t clogged or overflowing the drain pan.

How does an electric heating system work?

Anywhere in North America, from the farthest northern tip of Maine to the southernmost tip of California, at some point, every home will need heat. With a focus on energy efficiency and renewable resources, electric resistance heating has gotten a lot of attention. With electrical heating, 100% of the energy is converted to heat because the heating elements have direct contact with the air, heating that air quickly. However, while efficient, it gets more expensive the colder the temperatures get. 

With forced electric heating systems, also known as central heat or HVAC systems, the air is pulled into the system and heated. It is then blown and circulates through the home through air ducts. This type of heating often requires heating system repair calls because of metallic squeaking. That squeaking noise is sometimes loose connections, a belt or a fan is wearing out. 

A few of the main parts for this type of heating system consist of the following components as well as many others: 

• Air return ductwork
• Blower motor
• Heat exchanger
• Heating elements

The supply ductwork carries the air to all the rooms of the home while the return ductwork carries all the air from the rooms back to the blower and air handler. 

What is the most energy-efficient electric heating system?

Because the cost of heating a home can consume half of the household energy budget, it is important to get the most energy-efficient heating system possible. It should be a system that has a long life span with few to no heating system repairs too.

While that is a large profile to fill, it is possible with a heat pump. This type of heating system works by capturing heat from inside the earth and then moving it into and throughout the home. A bonus with a heat pump system, it works in reverse during the summer, pulling the heat out of the house. 

A heat pump is astoundingly efficient and can often produce up to 4 times the energy they use for power.  A heat pump system is environmentally friendly in that manner, using less than it generates and without burning fossil fuels or generating exhaust gases. There are no concerns with carbon monoxide or other harmful gases either. 

The initial investment of a heat pump is higher than installing a central heat system and damages the landscape with the holes and trenches needed to install the system. However,  within 5 years of lower utility bills, it will pay for itself and then some when the tax credits are factored into the cost. 

How much does it cost to install an electric heating system?

The cost of the electric heating system isn’t the most expensive part with costs ranging between $500 and reaching $1,500 or more. It is the installation part of this equation that can cost because it is a labor-intensive job. In most cases, there are two technicians sent to install a unit at a cost between $400 and  $2,000. 

Because of what experienced technicians can cost, it is highly recommended to take a maintenance or service contract. Most contracts will include an annual inspection where cleaning and minor repairs are covered. The upfront cost of the contract can seem expensive but if you have repeated heating system repair calls, it will pay for itself within 2 services. 

Which is cheaper: a gas or electric central heating system?

Per unit, electricity is the more expensive option compared to natural gas. This makes the overall lifetime cost of electric heat higher than gas heat. An electric heat system takes longer to warm up the house, keeping it colder for a longer time.

How do you service an electric heating system?

The heating system is important to the comfort of our homes in the winter. This is why routine maintenance by a homeowner will minimize possible situations of the heating system is not working on the coldest night of the season that requires professional heating system repairs. 

With a forced-air heating system, you should take the following steps in between the scheduled professional maintenance service calls: 

• Check the air filter monthly, clean or change it as necessary. The basic rule of thumb is every 30 days, more frequent if you have several pets in the house. 
• Check the ductwork annually for dust, mold, and rust. Make any repairs you can or call a professional.  
• Every three years, have the ductwork cleaned by a professional to keep the air blowing through home clean and healthy. 
• Clean dust from around and just inside the furnace housing. Check the condensation pan, empty and clean if needed. 
• Clean the blower by vacuuming around the area. Save cleaning the internal area for the professional. 
• Check the blower belt and if it appears loose, call for a heating system repair. 
• Check the thermostat is working properly, replacing the batteries every 90 days. Many heating system repair calls are made for a heating system that keeps turning on and off when all that’s wrong is the thermostat batteries need replacing or the thermostat itself needs replacing. 

Furnace Troubleshooting Tips

Are you wondering how to identify possible issues with your furnace? We offer the following suggestions: 

Thermostat 

Make sure the thermostat setting is on “heat.” Seems like a no-brainer, but over one-fourth of furnace repair calls have been resolved by a professional simply moving the switch to “heat”. This can be an expensive service call for a simple issue you can check for yourself. Other things to check before making a furnace repair service call are: 

• Check the setting of the temperature.
• Set the temperature five degrees higher than what the temperature of the room temperature is currently to see if the heat turns on. 
• If you have a programmable thermostat, check that the display is correct with AM and PM settings and time.
• Check the wiring from the thermostat to the furnace. If there are any breaks or cracks, you can splice them back together or call for professional furnace repair service.
• Replace the batteries and then reset the thermostat.
• Gently blow any debris or dust out of the thermostat and make sure it is firmly on the wall and attached without any wiring sticking out. 
• If the program settings aren’t working,  bypass them by punching in the temperature you desire with the up/down control, then press and hold the button. This should switch the furnace on if the programming feature is broken. 

Breakers and Shutoff Switches 

This is another simple matter that has cost many homeowners a furnace repair service call that could have been taken care of by them. Check the on/off switch at the thermostat, on the furnace, and on the breaker box. If all of these things are on, an electric furnace is plugged in, and you are still not getting the furnace to work, then call for a professional furnace repair. 

The Filter

When was the last time you changed or cleaned the air filter? This should be done at least every 30 days, in some situations twice a month. When the air filter is clogged, the furnace will shut off because the airflow is restricted by the dirt and dust in the filter. 

The Gas

If you have a gas furnace that isn’t blowing hot air, make sure the gas valve is turned on. If the handle at the meter is perpendicular to the gas line, turn it to the parallel position. Check the pilot light, this is often an issue resolved during a furnace repair service that could be done by the homeowner.

Chimney Exhaust Flue

During cold weather, birds are attracted to the warmth of a chimney exhaust flue and will sometimes fall in, blocking the airflow. Turn the furnace off and the thermostat down. Then dismantle the duct and clear any birds, critters, or other debris that could be blocking. Reassemble and turn things back on. 

Drain Lines

If you have a high-efficiency furnace, it will drain several gallons of water every day during the winter. If the drain lines get clogged up and restricted from mold or sediment, the furnace will turn off automatically. Remove the hose and flush it with 25% bleach and 75% water for several minutes, then clear water for several minutes. Reattach and your furnace should start working again. 

Air Ducts

If there is still a room or two cold after the furnace comes on, you need to check if the air vents in each room are open. Next, check the air ducts in the attic. There may be a broken or crushed duct. A broken duct can be patched together with a metal duct tape. A crushed duct will need to be replaced. 

Clean Debris and Leaves 

If your furnace vents are outside, check that the vents are clear of any debris and leaves. If you aren’t finding anything blocking the vent, you’ll need to make that furnace repair service call. 

How do you keep warm when your furnace goes out?

If you wake up one morning, or worse, in the middle of the night, and the house is cold, you should check the furnace first thing. Follow the steps we listed above to see if you can get it working before making that furnace repair service call. And in the meantime, to keep warm until the technician arrives, here are a few suggestions: 

1. Use space heaters 
2. Use the fireplace
3. Keep doors and windows closed
4. Keep blinds, curtains, and shades closed
5. Dress warm and keep moving 
6. Turn on the oven and cook a pot of chili or stew
7. Make pallets in the floor and have slumber party

How do you reset a furnace?

Every furnace should have a reset button; this is an important feature with HVAC systems for safety purposes. They will shut the furnace off if there is any malfunction of the furnace. You can reset a furnace with these steps: 

Reset an Electric Furnace

1. Turn the power to the furnace off at the breaker.
2. Press the reset button. Usually this is located inside the blower compartment at the side of the blower motor.  
3. If the button pops back up after you press it down, call your furnace repair service company.
4. If the button stays down, the furnace should cut on and you can replace the cover to the blower compartment.

Reset a Gas Furnace

1. Check that the pilot light is on.  
2. Turn down the thermostat setting to the low setting.
3. Turn off the power supply at the breaker.
4. Turn off the main gas supply off at the furnace but  leave the pilot gas supply on.
5. Relight the pilot light.
6. Turn the circuit breaker on, and then turn the main gas supply on.
7. Press and hold the reset button for thirty seconds and raise the thermostat to the correct setting. 

What is the average cost of a furnace repair?

You should have your furnace checked prior to winter using a furnace repair service near you. By doing this, you establish a relationship with a trusted source, and you won’t need to worry about who to call for furnace repair in an emergency. This check-up and tune-up can cost around $150 unless there are parts or a furnace repair needed at the time. 

The average cost for a furnace repair can start around $150 and go as high as $500, depending on the type of furnace, electric or gas, and the age/model of the furnace. Gas furnace repairs usually cost more because they are more complex than the average electric HVAC furnace.