Whether it’s a leaky furnace or if you throw the switch to turn on your heating system in the fall and it won’t start, common furnace problems can impact your home at any moment.

Regardless of the cause, learning how your heating system works and a little bit about some typical furnace problems is vital in deciding whether you can troubleshoot on your own or if you need professional support. By noting the furnace's behavior, listening for strange noises and checking for signs of damage or blockage, you can narrow down the possible causes.

If you're not sure about the problem or don't have the necessary skills and tools, it's best to call a reputable HVAC company like Dearing's Service & Solutions. We can accurately identify the issue and execute the required repairs or maintenance, so we can get your furnace up and running ASAP.

Here's more about what causes a furnace to leak water and eight other frequent heating issues:

1. My Furnace Is Leaking Water

A furnace can leak water for a number of reasons. One possibility is a condensate leak, where the water produced during the combustion process is not properly draining away. This may be due to a clogged condensate drain line or a failing condensate pump. Another potential cause of water leakage from a furnace is a cracked heat exchanger, which can result in water—as well as dangerous gases—escaping from the furnace.

It is imperative to address water leaks promptly to prevent further damage to your furnace. Reaching out to a professional HVAC technician like the crew at Dearing's Service & Solutions is recommended to diagnose and resolve the issue successfully.

2. My Furnace Blows Cold Air/Not Blowing Hot Air

Some potential causes for a furnace blowing cold air or not blowing hot air include a malfunctioning thermostat, a problem with the pilot light or ignition system, a plugged air filter, or a malfunctioning heating element. It is also possible your furnace is overheating and shutting off as a safety precaution.

If your furnace will not blow hot air, it's better to contact a trained HVAC specialist to diagnose and fix the problem. They can offer an accurate assessment and advise you on the correct solution.

3. My Furnace Is Not Keeping Up

A common reason your furnace isn’t keeping up on a cold day is that your home lacks insulation, which can lead to heat loss and lower efficiency. Another reason your furnace is having difficulties is because it’s too small for your home, so it can’t generate enough heat to effectively warm the space. A defective thermostat or ductwork problems can also produce inconsistent heating.

To correct this, first check your home’s insulation level and make sure it’s enough to insulate your home. Also, look at the thermostat to make sure it’s set right and the batteries still function.

If the problem lingers, consider consulting with an experienced HVAC company, such as Dearing's Service & Solutions, who can look over your system, determine the root cause and provide solutions such as furnace replacement, repairing ductwork or modifying your thermostat settings.

4. My Furnace Isn't Running at All

If your furnace is not working, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot before phoning a pro. Ensure the thermostat is set properly and the batteries are not dead. If the furnace still doesn't start, check the circuit breaker or fuse box to make sure power is reaching the unit.

If there is power but no heat, the problem may lie with the ignition system or gas supply. In that case, it's a good idea to contact a seasoned HVAC technician for diagnosis and repair.

5. My Furnace Is Short Cycling

If your furnace is short cycling, this means it is turning on and off frequently at short intervals as opposed to running in regular cycles like it should. This can cause inefficiency, higher energy bills and potential damage to your heating system.

If you believe your furnace is short cycling, the first step is to check your unit’s air filter. Filters should be changed on a regular basis to ensure air flow, so if your furnace air filter is plugged with dirt you should exchange it for a clean one—and be sure it is pointing in the right direction. Next, look at your thermostat and make sure  it’s set right and the batteries are good.

If those two things don’t work, it’s a good idea to call experts like the staff at Dearing's Service & Solutions. Quick professional attention will help restore the proper functioning of your furnace and avoid additional complications and high energy bills.

6. My Furnace Is Making a Humming Noise

Whenever your furnace is making a humming noise, it often is an indication of problems with the electrical elements or the blower motor. Therefore, if you detect your furnace making a humming noise, it is crucial to take action.

If the noise continues, it is better that you  contact a professional HVAC technician.

7. My Furnace Makes Loud Noises

If your furnace is making a persistent loud noise, it's important to address the issue quickly to prevent further damage or potential safety risks.  One common cause of this is a failing blower motor or fan, which can make a grinding or screeching sound. Another potential cause is a loose or worn-out belt that may emit a squealing or rattling noise.

Given the complexity of furnace systems and potential risks involved, it's safer to get a hold of a heating and cooling specialist.

8. My Furnace Won't Start

If your furnace refuses to turn on, make sure the thermostat is set to the preferred temperature, is in heating mode and the batteries are functioning. Then, check if the circuit breaker or fuse controlling the furnace is sending power to the unit. If these basic checks don't take care of the problem, you can examine the furnace's power switch or emergency shutoff switch to ensure they're in the "on" position and weren’t accidentally turned off.

If those steps don’t do the job, call an expert for furnace repair.

9. My Furnace Is on but Not Igniting

Much like a furnace that won't turn on at all, a furnace that isn’t igniting can be caused by a plugged air filter or a tripped circuit breaker. So, checking the air filter and taking a peek at your circuit breakers are a good place to start.

Other potential causes of a furnace not igniting include a faulty igniter or malfunctioning flame sensor. Indications of these include the furnace continually making an attempt to ignite without success, an absence of heat production or the furnace is making a burning or gas smell. Both of these issues can be easily addressed by HVAC pros like the team at Dearing's Service & Solutions.