Welcome to the Action Furnace blog, where in today’s post we’ve created your DIY Furnace Repair Tool Kit. Learn common furnace issues, repair solutions and the right tools for the job to ensure dependable, efficient heat all season long.
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When your furnace starts acting up in the dead of winter, waiting for a repair technician can feel like forever. But what if you could tackle common repair problems yourself? I mean, if you’re a regular reader of our blogs, you’re probably pretty handy. That’s why we created your go-to DIY furnace repair guide! Where you’ll learn how to diagnose and repair common heating issues fast, saving you both time and money.
So call on that can-do attitude and let’s dive in!
Your Furnace - A Basic Understanding
Natural Gas
Natural gas furnaces are the most common type of furnace used in Alberta homes because they offer cost-effective heating. Burning natural gas to create heat, the combustion process creates warmed air which is then circulated throughout your home via the blower fan and ducts. Exhaust gasses are vented outside for safety.
Electric
Furnaces that use electricity as their primary power source allow you to avoid fuel costs and produce fewer emissions, potentially saving you money over the long-term due to increased efficiency. Air is warmed over electric elements, and since there is no combustion, there is no need to vent like a gas or propane furnace.
Propane
Propane based furnaces are ideal for rural or more secluded properties in Alberta that may not be situated by reliable natural gas or electricity lines. They operate similarly to a natural gas furnace, but using propane as the fuel source to generate heat.
No matter the type of furnace you currently have installed in your home, basic prep work for repairs remains the same. Always ensure the power is turned off to your furnace before beginning any job, and double check that the area around your furnace is clear of obstructions.
Essential Tools
When attempting DIY furnace repair, having the right tools at the ready is key to efficiency and safety.
A basic toolbox should include a screwdriver, a multimeter to test electrical components, and a wrench for handling bolts and screws. Flashlights are crucial for visibility, while a shop vac helps keep dust and debris at bay. Finally safety gear such as gloves and even a face mask are important to help protect against sharp edges or exposure to fumes.
Common Furnace Issues & Solutions
Here are some easy DIY furnace repairs to help get you comfortable working with your heating system.
Replacing A Faulty Thermostat
Begin by turning off the power to your furnace at the breaker box to prevent electric shock, then remove the old thermostat cover, test for voltage and properly label the wires. Disconnect the wires.
Install the new thermostat base ensuring its level and attach to the wall before feeding the wires through the designated holes. Connect the wires to the corresponding terminals.
Secure the cover of your new thermostat, restore power and troubleshoot to identify any lingering issues.
Changing Air Filters
Dirty air filters can wreak havoc on your furnace’s efficiency and lifespan, but thankfully the repair is pretty easy. And yes, we know that we’ve included this in other blogs as more of a maintenance task, but we think it’s a pretty handy skill, no matter what you classify it as.
You should be changing your furnace filter every 1-3 months for optimal airflow.
Start by turning off your furnace to prevent dust circulation, then locate the filter (usually at the bottom of your unit, inside the housing). Remove the old filter by sliding it out of its slot, before replacing it with a new, clean one. The filter will have arrows pointing for optimal airflow, so check to make sure you have it right side up! Then restore power and start enjoying improved air quality right away.
Checking & Replacing Components
Many furnace ailments such as blower motor issues, worn belts or igniter problems can be easily fixed with a little bit of elbow grease and some good tools.
Once again, turn off power to your furnace before embarking on any repairs.
For the blower motor, locate it inside your furnace. Remove screws and wiring connections, then pull out the motor. Install the new one, following manufacturer and safety specifications.
To replace the belt, first loosen the tensioning bolt, then slide the old belt off. Install the new belt and adjust the tension until it’s snug, but not super tight. You still want it to run without too much friction.
For igniter replacement, remove the screws holding the igniter in place and disconnect the wires. Then carefully install the new igniter, once again following manufacturer and safety specifications. Make sure you are wearing gloves for this as it is a delicate and often finicky component.
Regulating inspecting these and other components and staying on top of small repairs will go a long way in ensuring dependable heat this year and beyond.
When To Call In Action Furnace
DIY furnace repair isn’t always feasible, or safe, especially when dealing with complex issues like gas leaks, electrical issues or significant mechanical failure.
If you notice a strong gas smell, carbon monoxide alarms being triggered, or frequent electrical tripping it’s time to call in the experts at Action Furnace.
Our technicians require hours of mandatory training every year, and we equip each of them with professional tools and high-quality parts. This ensures that our team has everything they need to complete any repair as efficiently and safely as possible.
We’re also proud to offer our exclusive Fixed Right or It’s Free Guarantee on all heating system repairs. If one of our furnace repairs should fail within the first heating season, we will repair it again absolutely free. We will also return 100% of your original investment. At Action Furnace we truly stand behind our service. Contact us today, we’re available when you need us.
Become A Member Today!
Once you’ve completed your DIY furnace repairs (great job, by the way!) keep your equipment in top notch condition, with regular maintenance from Action Furnace.
Enter the Comfort Club, where we help make annual maintenance a little bit easier! For one low monthly price your furnace tune-ups will be pre scheduled and you’ll enjoy front of the line, priority service, 50% off diagnostic fees and 10% off any future repairs. Talk to your installation technician to learn more, or call our friendly customer service team!
While tacking DIY furnace repair can save time and money, it’s important to know your limits. Knowing what you can handle versus when to call in the pros will help ensure your furnace runs smoothly for longer. We hope that you’ve found this guide helpful and that you feel more comfortable handling small repair issues as they come up, and that you refer back to this whenever you happen to be working on your furnace.
Should you need a little bit of help, or have any questions about your furnace, don’t hesitate to call the friendly team at Action Furnace, we’re here to help! We’ve been Alberta’s preferred choice for furnace installation, repair and maintenance since 1975, so you can trust our team to get the job done right.
Frequently Asked Questions About Furnace Repair
Should I repair or replace my furnace?
The decision to repair or replace your furnace is easier with the help of our experienced heating technicians. They’ll diagnose the issue and give you a realistic forecast for future repairs.
Every system is unique, and if your repairs aren’t covered by warranty, or service calls seem constant, sometimes a full system replacement can be a wiser choice in the long-run.
How long does it take to repair my furnace?
The time it takes to repair a furnace will vary depending on the type and severity of the problem, the age and condition of your furnace and the availability of parts. Most furnace repairs can take one to several hours, but no matter the time frame our technicians are dedicated to efficient and dependable service.
Are there any warranties on furnace repair service?
At Action Furnace we’re proud to offer the Fixed Right or It’s Free Guarantee! Should one of our furnace repairs fail during the first heating season, we will repair it again absolutely free. We will also return 100% of your original investment.
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