Is your furnace acting up when you need it most? Your heating system should run smoothly in the cold Markham winters. When it doesn't, things can quickly get uncomfortable. Here’s where hiring a professional gas furnace service in Markham becomes necessary.

Whether you’re a long-time homeowner or a first-time buyer, understanding why your furnace isn’t working perfectly can save you time, money, and stress. In this blog, we’ll explore the 5 major reasons your furnace might be underperforming and how Air Leaders, trusted HVAC contractors in Markham, can fix it.

1. Clogged or Dirty Filters

A clogged filter is like trying to breathe through a thick blanket. It suffocates your furnace and limits airflow, making it work harder. This is the most common reason furnaces lose efficiency. Many homeowners in Markham and Richmond Hill are reporting similar issues.

According to experts, "Dirty filters reduce airflow by up to 25%. Over time, this strain can lead to complete furnace failure."

Impact:

• Shortened furnace lifespan
• Reduced heating efficiency
• Higher energy bills

This problem is easy to fix. Simply replace the filter every 1-3 months during peak heating seasons, especially if you have pets or live in a dusty area. Air Leaders offers gas furnace service in Richmond Hilland nearby, where technicians replace filters and inspect your system for hidden issues.

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

Your furnace depends on the thermostat to know when to heat and for how long. When this key component is faulty, your furnace may either not turn on at all or continuously run, wasting energy.

A study by Energy Star reveals that homeowners save 10 - 30% on heating costs when using programmable thermostats correctly, but many suffer from faulty ones.

Signs of a Thermostat Issue:

• Furnace won't turn on
• Temperature swings wildly
• Furnace runs non-stop

Check if your thermostat is set correctly and consider upgrading to a programmable or smart version. If that doesn’t work, calling HVAC contractors in Markham can resolve the issue.

3. Pilot Light or Ignition Problems

Without a properly functioning ignition system, your furnace won’t produce heat. Older furnaces use a pilot light, while newer models rely on electronic ignition systems. Both types are prone to issues over time. According to a report by the Department of Energy, pilot lights are often blown out by drafts or dirty sensors.

Common Pilot Light/Ignition Problems:

• Weak or flickering flame
• Furnace cycles on and off frequently
• No heat at all

If you’re uncomfortable troubleshooting the ignition system, it’s best to schedule a gas furnace service in Markham. The experts at Air Leaders can check for gas leaks, clean the pilot light, or replace faulty components.

4. Blower Motor Issues

The blower motor is responsible for pushing warm air through your home. If the blower isn’t functioning correctly, the heat your furnace produces won't circulate, leaving your home cold despite a working furnace. Air Leaders, as one of the top HVAC contractors in Markham, frequently addresses this issue during furnace maintenance.

Common Blower Motor Problems:

• Rattling or squealing noises
• Weak airflow
• Furnace overheats or shuts down unexpectedly

Routine maintenance can catch motor issues early, preventing costly repairs. Air Leaders offers annual inspection services that include checking blower motors, ensuring your furnace operates smoothly all season.

5. Leaky Ductwork

Leaky ducts mean you’re filling a bucket with holes in it—you’ll never get the desired results. According to Energy Star, up to 30% of heated air is lost through leaky ducts. This means your furnace works harder to maintain the temperature, leading to higher bills and uneven heating.

Signs of Leaky Ducts:

• Cold spots in certain rooms
• Higher-than-normal energy bills
• Dusty or dirty air around vents

If you suspect ductwork problems, contacting HVAC contractors in Markham can help you assess the situation. Air Leaders' team will inspect and seal your ducts so, your furnace operates at peak efficiency.

FAQs

1. Why does my furnace keep turning on and off?

This could be a sign of a clogged filter or a malfunctioning thermostat. A professional gas furnace service in Markham can diagnose and resolve the issue.

2. Why isn’t my furnace producing enough heat?

Common reasons include dirty filters, blower motor problems, or leaky ducts. A thorough inspection by HVAC experts will pinpoint the exact cause.

3. How often should I replace my furnace filter?

You should replace your filter every 1-3 months during peak usage, especially if you have pets or live in a dusty environment.

4. What should I do if my pilot light won’t stay lit?

Check for drafts or dirty sensors. If the problem persists, it’s best to schedule a gas furnace service in Richmond Hill to prevent further issues.

5. How can I improve my furnace’s energy efficiency?

Regular maintenance, sealing ductwork, and upgrading your thermostat can all help your furnace run more efficiently, saving you money on energy bills.

Conclusion

A furnace that isn’t working perfectly can be a headache, especially during the cold months. But understanding the common issues—like dirty filters, thermostat problems, ignition issues, blower motor troubles, and leaky ducts—can help you resolve them quickly.

Whether you're dealing with a malfunctioning system in Markham or need gas furnace service in Richmond Hill, Air Leaders can return your furnace to peak performance.

Don’t feel uncomfortable anymore this winter. Contact Air Leaders today for expert service and enjoy a warm, comfortable home all winter long.