What Does It Mean When a Furnace Overheats?
Furnaces are designed to produce temperatures between 100 and 130 degrees. Once the furnace reaches 200, it becomes dangerous for the household. While many furnaces will automatically shut off at this temperature, safety switches do not always work.
Overheating Furnaces Are Dangerous in Any Home
Overheating furnaces are expensive and dangerous whether the home is a single or multi-level building. In addition to furnace fires, excess heat can damage the unit. Depending on which component is affected, this can lead to high bills or safety negligence. Cracks in the heat exchanger are particularly problematic.
The heat exchanger is responsible for transferring heat throughout the home. If the exchanger is compromised, this can cost up to $5000 and potentially cause carbon monoxide poisoning. Since carbon monoxide is odorless and invisible, it may go undetected until serious health problems occur. Carbon monoxide poisoning can lead to a range of symptoms, including headaches, nausea, dizziness, and even death.
Furnace fires are more likely to be noticed because of their smell. Vents that smell like smoke usually point to an overheated basement or attic furnace. Sometimes, this happens when gas pressure is too high from soot buildup. Other reasons include blocked ventilation and corroded wires.
Electrical and gas furnaces can overheat, especially if older than 20 years. Annual maintenance is recommended regardless of the furnace's age and should always be conducted by a trained professional.
How to Tell if the Furnace Is Too Hot
Burning smells are only one way to tell if a furnace is overheating. If the furnace shows unusual wear and tear, homeowners can tell by paying attention to the background noise.
A low humming noise is normal for most furnaces, but banging and clacking sounds are not. Banging indicates that the furnace burners have accumulated a significant amount of dirt. Even furnaces that are placed indoors will eventually need to be cleaned because if left dirty, gas can build up once the ignition begins.
High-pitched noises usually occur when a component needs to be replaced or repaired. This is especially true with blower belts and motors. Ignoring strange sounds from the furnace is never a good idea, as it can lead to fires or mini explosions.
Short cycling is another sign of overheating. Furnaces should be able to continue and start multiple times per day. If the cycle shuts down soon after it begins, this is likely because a safety switch is triggering it to stop. If homeowners notice any of these signs, they are encouraged to call a technician sooner rather than later.
Preventing Furnace Fires
Homeowners can take precautions to reduce the likelihood of furnace fires by scheduling routine maintenance checkups. Professionals can assess the blower belt, heat exchanger, wiring, and ventilation system to ensure the entire furnace is safe. This should be done yearly to prevent overheating.
Homeowners can help by changing the air filters. Furnace filters are supposed to be changed once every three months. Furnace filter replacement depends on how many people and pets live in the home. Smaller homes with more tenants may need to change their air filters once per month.
About Triple A Air Conditioning & Heating
Triple A Air Conditioning & Heating provides 10-year parts and labor warranties for Corpus Christi, TX, residents. This ensures all homeowners have the peace of mind they deserve that their heating repair job is completed to the highest standard possible. Call them today to schedule furnace maintenance inspections this year.
