When winter arrives in Metro Atlanta, heating systems work overtime to keep homes comfortable. If your furnace stopped working, is making strange noises, or cannot reach the desired temperature, you may be experiencing one of the most common furnace problems homeowners face.
At Estes Services, our furnace repair technicians have provided furnace repair services since 1949. Below, we break down the most common furnace problems, how to identify them, and when to contact a professional for emergency furnace repair service.
What Are the Most Common Furnace Problems?
Some furnace issues are minor and easy to fix. Others require professional furnace repair. The most common furnace problems include:
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Dirty or clogged air filters
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Malfunctioning thermostat
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Ignition or pilot light issues
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Faulty blower motor
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Cracked heat exchanger
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Strange noises
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Gas odors
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Furnace stopped working
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Lack of regular maintenance
Understanding these furnace problems early can save you money and prevent major breakdowns.
Dirty or Clogged Air Filters
Dirty or clogged air filters are one of the leading causes of furnace repair calls. A dirty air filter restricts airflow, forcing your heating and cooling system to work harder.
When airflow is restricted, your furnace may:
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Struggle to reach the desired temperature
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Overheat and shut off
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Increase your energy bills
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Develop premature mechanical wear
Replacing furnace filters regularly is one of the easiest ways to protect your system. Dirty furnace filters not only reduce efficiency but also impact indoor air quality.
If you are unsure how often to change your furnace filters, our heating maintenance team can help during a seasonal tune-up. Learn more about our heating maintenance services at EstesAir.com.
Malfunctioning Thermostat
Sometimes the furnace problem is not the furnace at all — it is the thermostat.
A malfunctioning thermostat may:
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Cause your furnace to short cycle
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Prevent your system from turning on
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Misread indoor temperatures
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Fail to reach the desired temperature
In some cases, thermostat replacement is the best solution. Many homeowners upgrade to smart thermostats for better efficiency and control.
If you suspect thermostat issues, our technicians can evaluate whether you need a thermostat replacement or recalibration.
Ignition or Pilot Light Issues
If your furnace turns on but does not produce heat, the ignition control or pilot light may be the cause.
Modern furnaces use electronic ignition systems. Older systems rely on a pilot light. When ignition components fail, your furnace will not generate heat.
Common signs include:
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Furnace clicking but no heat
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Intermittent heating
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Furnace stopped working completely
Ignition repairs should always be handled by licensed furnace repair technicians. Gas components require careful handling and professional inspection.
Faulty Blower Motor
The blower motor pushes warm air through your ductwork. If the blower motor fails, heated air cannot circulate properly.
Signs of blower motor problems include:
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Weak airflow
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Strange noises
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Furnace running but no warm air
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System overheating
A failing blower motor can quickly lead to larger furnace issues. If you notice inconsistent airflow, schedule furnace repair service promptly.
Cracked Heat Exchanger
A damaged heat exchanger is a serious safety concern. The heat exchanger separates combustion gases from breathable indoor air.
If cracked, it can allow carbon monoxide to enter your home.
Warning signs include:
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Strong odors
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Headaches or dizziness
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Visible corrosion
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Soot buildup
If you suspect a cracked heat exchanger, contact a professional immediately. This issue requires urgent attention and often emergency furnace repair service.
Strange Noises
Furnaces should not make loud or unusual sounds. If you hear:
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Rattling
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Grinding
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Squealing
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Whistling
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Banging
You may have loose components, a failing blower motor, or airflow restrictions caused by dirty air filters.
Strange noises are early indicators of furnace problems. Addressing them quickly can prevent costly breakdowns.
Furnace Stopped Working
If your furnace stopped working completely, you may need emergency furnace repair service.
Common causes include:
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Blown fuse
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Tripped breaker
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Failed ignition system
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Gas supply interruption
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Severe mechanical failure
During cold winter weather, loss of heat can quickly make your home uncomfortable and unsafe. Our team offers prompt furnace repair service across Metro Atlanta to restore heat quickly.
Lack of Regular Maintenance
Skipping regular maintenance is one of the biggest causes of unexpected furnace repair.
Routine furnace maintenance helps:
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Extend equipment life
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Improve efficiency
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Reduce breakdowns
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Maintain safe operation
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Save you money long term
Our HVAC services include comprehensive heating inspections to catch minor furnace issues before they become expensive repairs.
If you have heat pumps or dual heating systems, preventative service is equally important.
Furnace Repair Services in Metro Atlanta
If you are searching for furnace repair service in Atlanta, GA, our experienced furnace repair technicians are ready to help.
Since 1949, Estes Services has provided trusted HVAC services throughout Metro Atlanta, including:
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Furnace repair
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Emergency furnace repair service
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Thermostat replacement
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Furnace maintenance
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Heating system inspections
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Heat pump service
We are a locally owned family business committed to keeping your home comfortable all winter long.
Schedule Furnace Repair Today
Whether you are dealing with dirty or clogged air filters, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a furnace that stopped working, professional help is just a call away.
Visit EstesAir.com to schedule furnace repair services online or call our team today.
It's that easy. It's Estes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Furnace Repair
What are the most common furnace problems?
The most common furnace problems include dirty or clogged air filters, malfunctioning thermostat, ignition issues, blower motor failure, and lack of heating maintenance.
When should I call for emergency furnace repair service?
Call for emergency furnace repair service if your furnace stopped working during cold weather, produces gas odors, makes loud unusual noises, or shows signs of carbon monoxide risk.
Can dirty furnace filters really cause furnace problems?
Yes. Dirty furnace filters restrict airflow, overwork the blower motor, reduce efficiency, and can cause overheating or shutdowns.
How often should furnace filters be replaced?
Most furnace filters should be replaced every 1-3 months, depending on usage, home size, pets, and air quality conditions.
Is thermostat replacement expensive?
Thermostat replacement costs vary depending on the model. Upgrading to smart thermostats can improve efficiency and help regulate the desired temperature more accurately.
