Are you experiencing problems with your furnace pressure switch? Call Best Virginia Heating & Cooling for comprehensive diagnosis and repairs.
As winter arrives in Hurricane, WV, thousands of oil and gas furnaces come to life across many homes and businesses around the city. Once your furnace comes on, the hum disappears into the background as the warm air starts to spread across your property.
However, turning on your furnace and keeping it on goes beyond pressing a button or turning a knob. Many components have to work together to keep your home warm and cozy. The furnace pressure switch is one of the lesser-known components. Yet, your furnace won’t work safely without it, if at all.
What can cause the furnace pressure switch to stop working? Leading furnace repair technicians in Hurricane, WV, will cover all you need to know.
What Is a Furnace Pressure Switch?
The furnace pressure switch is a safety component that helps keep dangerous exhaust gases from going back into the system. The switch also prevents gas leaks and short cycling (if there are other broken components in the furnace).
This safety switch closes automatically when it senses negative pressure as the furnace inducer motor comes on. When this happens, your furnace will kick in as usual, producing heat safely.
If the furnace pressure switch is bad, it will have problems reading the pressure differential. Therefore, it will stay open. Most modern furnace systems will not kick in when the pressure switch is open. Instead, the system will try to ignite three to five more times before it enters into the safety lockout mode.
The two main types of furnace pressure switches are the draft switch and the limit switch. The latter helps keep the furnace from overheating, while the former confirms that the furnace is venting combustion gases properly.
Common Causes of Pressure Switch Problems in Hurricane, WV
When a furnace air pressure sensor breaks down, it’s usually due to the following reasons.
General Wear and Tear
The furnace pressure switch is no different from other mechanical components in the system. It will wear out with age. When this happens, the switch will lose some or all of its sensitivity. This will make detection of airflow or pressure changes harder, if not impossible.
Electrical Shorts
Your furnace pressure switch is an electrical component. A short in the circuitry can alter the switch’s function and may also lead to complete failure. The switch can’t detect activation pressure if it doesn’t receive the right electrical signals.
Some of the most common causes of electrical shorts in these systems include corrosion, poor insulation, and physical damage to connecting wires.
Damage to the Diaphragm or Suction Hose
The diaphragm in the furnace pressure switch system detects any pressure differences while the suction hose connects the switch to the furnace’s internal airflow system. Any cracks in the hose or damage to the diaphragm will stop the pressure switch from functioning optimally.
Many homeowners in Hurricane, WV, who are battling with ignition problems often find that their furnace pressure switch has some damage.
Inducer Fan Problems
The inducer fan helps remove combustion gases from your furnace. It helps maintain proper airflow within the system. If the inducer fan isn’t working properly, the furnace pressure switch may struggle with monitoring airflow.
A bad inducer fan will likely lead to noisy furnace operation. Therefore, you should never ignore any strange noise when your furnace is in use. You should also watch for water accumulation in the inducer fan housing.
Dirt and Debris Buildup on the Switch
The furnace pressure switch will accumulate dust and dirt over time. The accumulated debris will make it harder for the switch to accurately read air pressure.
Blocked Flue or Chimney
Combustion gases safely escape your furnace through the flue or chimney. Any blockages up there will disrupt airflow and throw the pressure switch off. Worse, those toxic gases can enter your indoor space. Unfortunately, flue blockages happen fairly regularly. Leaves, bird nests, snow, and ice can all lead to the blockage.
Get Hassle-Free Furnace Repair in Hurricane, WV, From Best Virginia Heating & Cooling
Do you have a malfunctioning furnace pressure switch? Don’t waste any further time with your DIY troubleshooting. Turn to our highly experienced crew for accurate diagnosis and repairs. We can repair or replace the furnace pressure switch on all makes and models of oil and gas furnaces.
Are you ready to book an appointment? Call Best Virginia Heating & Cooling in Hurricane, WV!
For further reading, check out our article answering the question, “Does a new HVAC system increase home value?”