How to Tell if Your Furnace is Overheating

As the temperature drops outside, ensuring your home’s furnace runs smoothly and efficiently is vital. A malfunctioning furnace can not only leave you cold, but it can also be a safety hazard. Overheating is one of the most common issues with furnaces, and it’s crucial to recognize the signs of an overheating furnace. In this article, we’ll go over what furnace overheating is, how to identify it, what to do if you suspect your furnace is overheating, and how to prevent it from happening in the first place.

What is Furnace Overheating?

Furnace overheating is a common issue that can occur in any furnace, whether it’s gas or electric. Furnace overheating can cause the furnace to work harder than it should, leading to overheating and potentially causing damage to the furnace. The most common cause of furnace overheating is restricted airflow, which occurs when the furnace produces more heat than it can dissipate. Understanding the causes of furnace overheating is essential to stop possible damage or safety risks.

Several factors, including dirty air filters, blocked vents, and malfunctioning components, can cause restricted airflow. When the air filter becomes clogged with dirt and debris, it limits the airflow, causing the furnace to work harder. Blocked vents can also restrict airflow, which can cause the furnace to overheat. Malfunctioning components, such as the blower motor or fan, can also cause restricted airflow, leading to overheating.

Another cause of furnace overheating is a malfunctioning thermostat. If the thermostat is not functioning correctly, it may cause the furnace to run longer than necessary, producing more heat than it can dissipate. This can cause the furnace to overheat and potentially cause damage to the unit or your home.

Furnace overheating can be a safety hazard, as it can cause the furnace to shut off or even start a fire. If you suspect your furnace is overheating, take quick action for your home’s safety.

Our team of HVAC Contractors at Peter Inch & Associates want to provide the residents of London, Ontario, the information they need to recognize the signs of an overheating furnace and follow the best practices that can help manage the damage and keep your family safe this Winter.

Signs of a Furnace Overheating

There are several signs that your furnace may be overheating. If you notice any of the following, it’s crucial to take action immediately:

Strange or Unusual Sounds Coming From the Furnace

If you hear strange noises from your furnace, such as banging or popping sounds, this may be a sign of an overheating furnace. These noises can occur when the furnace’s metal components expand due to excess heat, causing the noise. If you hear any unusual noises, it’s important to get your furnace checked out by a professional.

You smell Unusual Odours or Something Burning

 If you smell a burning odour coming from your furnace, this is a sign of a potential problem. A burning smell can occur when the furnace overheats and causes the wiring or other components to melt or burn. An overheating furnace is a severe safety hazard and should be addressed immediately.

The Furnace Keeps Turning On and Off

Short cycling occurs when the furnace turns on and off frequently but does not allow the room to reach your desired temperature. When the furnace overheats, it may shut off automatically as a safety measure. If this frequently happens, having your furnace inspected by a professional HVAC Company is necessary.

Reduced Airflow

If you notice reduced airflow from your vents, this can be a sign of an overheating furnace. Reduced airflow can occur when the furnace’s air filter becomes clogged with dirt and debris, causing it to work harder than it should. This can lead to overheating and potentially cause damage to the furnace.

High-Temperature Readings

If you notice that the temperature readings on your furnace are higher than usual, this is a sign of an overheating furnace. The temperature readings should be consistent and within a normal range. If they are higher than expected, this can indicate that the furnace is producing too much heat and may be overheating.

It’s essential to be aware of these signs of an overheating furnace and to take action promptly if you notice any of them. We will provide you with a few steps you can take when you see these signs. However, suppose you suspect your furnace is overheating. In that case, we cannot stress how important it is to have it inspected by a knowledgeable HVAC Technician like Peter Inch & Associates to prevent any potential damage or safety hazards.

What to Do if You Suspect Your Furnace is Overheating

If you suspect your furnace is overheating, following these steps can save you money. Follow these steps to help prevent any potential damage or safety hazards and keep your furnace running smoothly and efficiently.

Turn off the Furnace

If you suspect your furnace is overheating, the first thing you should do is turn it off. You can turn off the furnace by switching it off at the thermostat or by shutting off the power supply to the furnace. This will help prevent any potential damage or safety hazards.

Check the Air Filter

Check the air filter to see if it’s dirty or clogged. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, causing the furnace to work harder than it should and potentially overheat. If the air filter is dirty, replace it with a new one to improve airflow.

Clear the Area Around the Furnace

Ensure that the area around the furnace is clear of any clutter, debris or objects that may restrict airflow. Ensure the furnace has sufficient space around it for proper ventilation.

Contact an HVAC Service

If you suspect your furnace is overheating, it’s vital to contact a professional HVAC technician to inspect it. An HVAC Company can diagnose the problem and take the necessary steps to fix it. Refrain from attempting to repair the furnace yourself, as this can be dangerous, cause further damage to the unit, and cost you more than having an HVAC technician do the work.

How to Prevent Furnace Overheating

Preventing furnace overheating is key to ensuring your furnace runs smoothly and efficiently. Here are some preventative measures you can take:

Change the Air Filter Regularly

One of the most important things you can do to prevent furnace overheating is to replace your air filters regularly. A dirty or clogged air filter can restrict airflow, causing the furnace to work harder than it should and potentially overheat. We recommend replacing air filters every one to three months, depending on usage.

Keep the Area Around the Furnace Clear 

Keeping the area around the furnace clean can also help prevent furnace overheating. Ensure the area around the furnace is free from clutter, debris or objects that may restrict airflow. Regularly vacuuming or sweeping the area around the stove can help keep it clean.

Install a Programmable Thermostat

Installing a programmable thermostat can help prevent furnace overheating by allowing you to set the temperature in your home to adjust according to your schedule automatically. This can help prevent the furnace from running too often and potentially overheating.

Routinely Check the Ductwork

Checking your ductwork for leaks, blockages, or damage can help prevent furnace overheating. Leaks or blockages in the ductwork can restrict airflow, causing the furnace to work harder than it should and potentially overheat. Ensure your ductwork is sealed correctly and free from damage to ensure proper airflow.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

It’s important to schedule regular maintenance for your furnace if you want to prevent it from overheating in the future. Regular maintenance can help keep your furnace running efficiently and identify potential issues before they become significant problems. During maintenance, a professional HVAC technician can inspect your furnace, clean it, and repair it.

In conclusion, furnace overheating can be a severe issue that requires prompt attention. Recognizing the signs of an overheating furnace and taking action can help prevent further damage and safety hazards. By following some simple preventative measures, such as changing the air filter regularly, scheduling regular maintenance, keeping the area around the furnace clear, and ensuring proper insulation, you can help prevent furnace overheating from happening in the first place.

At Peter Inch & Associates, we understand the importance of furnace safety and efficiency. That’s why we offer professional furnace repair and maintenance services to keep your furnace running smoothly and safely. If you suspect your furnace is overheating or need preventative maintenance assistance, don’t hesitate to contact Peter Inch & Associates. Our experienced technicians are dedicated to providing high-quality service and ensuring your furnace is in tip-top shape. Stay warm and safe this winter season.