When the chill of winter settles in, the last thing you may expect is a furnace problem. But what do you do when your heating system starts showing signs of trouble? At Ravinia Plumbing, we deliver reliable and efficient furnace repair in Bannockburn, IL, to put an end to your heating issues and keep your home comfortably warm throughout the season.
What Can Cause a Furnace to Stop Working?
When your furnace suddenly stops working, it can be both frustrating and concerning. Several issues can cause a furnace to fail—here are some of the most frequent problems we handle on furnace repair calls:
Ignition Problems
For older furnaces with a pilot light, a common issue is the light going out. This can be due to a dirty pilot orifice or bad thermocouple. Modern furnaces with electronic ignition systems can also encounter issues, such as a failed ignitor or faulty flame sensor.
Gas Supply Issues
For gas furnaces, problems with the gas supply can prevent the furnace from functioning. A blockage or issue with the gas line can stop the flow of gas, preventing the furnace from igniting. A faulty gas control valve may restrict the flow of gas to the furnace, requiring repair or replacement.
Mechanical Failures
Several mechanical components can fail, leading to furnace repair issues. If the blower motor fails, the furnace won’t circulate warm air throughout your home. Wear and tear can cause belts or motor bearings to break, affecting the furnace’s operation. If the draft inducer motor fails, the furnace cannot properly vent exhaust gasses and may shut down to prevent safety hazards.
System Overheating
Overheating can cause the furnace to shut down as a safety measure. This can be due to damaged air ducts or dirty air filters that restrict airflow through the heating system. The limit switch controls the furnace’s temperature and may need adjustment or replacement if it’s not working properly.
Is It Worth Repairing a Furnace?
Deciding whether to repair or replace a furnace can be a significant decision. Keep these factors in mind to help you evaluate whether it’s worth repairing your furnace or if it’s time to install a new one.
1. Age of the Furnace
Furnaces usually last about 15-20 years. The age of your furnace makes a difference as to whether a repair may be worthwhile:
- Furnaces Under 10 Years Old: If your furnace is relatively new and the repair is minor, it’s usually worth fixing. Modern furnaces are designed to be more efficient and may still have years of reliable service left.
- Furnaces More Than 10 Years Old: As furnaces age, they become less efficient and more prone to breakdowns. If your furnace is more than 10 years old, consider the cost of repair relative to the cost of a new, more efficient unit. If the repair costs are high, replacing the furnace might be a more cost-effective long-term solution.
2. Cost of Repair vs. Replacement
Compare the cost of the repair to the cost of a new furnace. A general rule of thumb is the 50% rule:
- Repair Costs Less Than 50% of Replacement: If the cost of the repair is less than 50% of the cost of a new furnace, repairing is usually the better option.
- Repair Costs More Than 50% of Replacement: If the repair costs exceed 50% of the cost of a new furnace, it may be more economical to invest in a new unit. This is particularly true if the repair involves significant components like the heat exchanger or blower motor.
3. Frequency of Repairs
Consider how often you’ve had to repair your furnace:
- Frequent Repairs: If you find yourself frequently calling for repairs, it might be time to replace the furnace. Constant breakdowns can indicate that the unit is nearing the end of its lifespan and is no longer cost-effective to maintain.
- Rare Repairs: If repairs are infrequent and the furnace has generally been reliable, repairing it might be a practical choice.
Ravinia Plumbing can help you make the best decision for your home’s heating needs. Our experienced technicians will thoroughly assess your furnace’s condition, considering factors like age, repair history, and energy efficiency to provide you with a clear, detailed analysis of whether a repair or replacement is the most cost-effective and reliable option for you.
By offering transparent pricing and expert advice, we ensure that you make an informed choice that aligns with your budget and long-term comfort goals. Whether you repair your existing unit or install a new one, we recommend yearly maintenance to help prevent breakdowns and maximize the service life of your heating system.
Contact Us for Reliable Furnace Repair in Bannockburn, IL
If you need furnace repair in Bannockburn, IL, Ravinia Plumbing is the HVAC company to call. Stay warm and worry-free this winter with expert furnace repair—contact us today to schedule service.
