When winter hits Southern Illinois and Southeast Missouri, furnace issues can lead to discomfort or emergencies. Knowing the common furnace problems helps you make smart choices and avoid major furnace repairs.
Below are the problems Dutch Enterprises sees most often, along with practical steps you can take before calling for professional heating services.
What Furnace Issues Are Common for Homeowners in Missouri?
Cold, damp winters in Southern Illinois and Southeast Missouri lead to common furnace problems like dust buildup, system strain, and high energy bills. While some furnace issues can be solved with cleaning or furnace maintenance service, others need expert help. Dutch Enterprises offers reliable furnace repairs to keep your home comfortable and safe.
Dirty or Clogged Filters
Homes in Perryville, Jackson, and rural Southern Illinois face furnace issues from dust, pollen, and debris clogging filters. This reduces airflow, raises energy bills, and strains components like the blower motor. Regular filter replacement, furnace maintenance service, and seasonal air quality testing help prevent buildup and extend system life.
Thermostat Malfunctions
Missouri’s temperature swings can strain older thermostats, causing furnace issues like irregular cycling or failure to start. Homes with outdated systems are especially affected. Replacing old thermostats with programmable or smart models improves furnace troubleshooting by ensuring consistent heating and reducing energy waste. Regular thermostat updates support efficient furnace repairs and HVAC system maintenance.
Ignition or Pilot Light Problems
High humidity in Cape Girardeau and Carbondale can cause corrosion on ignition systems, leading to furnace issues like pilot light or ignitor failure. If you frequently relight the pilot or hear clicking without ignition, it may be time for furnace repairs. For safety, especially with gas furnaces, contact a professional for reliable furnace troubleshooting and maintenance service.
Blower Motor Issues
Many Southern Illinois homes rely on furnaces installed in basements or crawl spaces, where humidity levels can lead to rust, mold, or condensation. These factors increase the risk of blower motor malfunction, especially if ventilation is limited.
Grinding, rattling, or no airflow at all may signal motor wear or failure. Routine HVAC system maintenance is an effective way to catch these problems early and avoid major breakdowns.
Cracked Heat Exchanger
A cracked heat exchanger can release dangerous carbon monoxide. Symptoms include unusual smells, soot, headaches, or dizziness. If you notice any signs, contact Dutch Enterprises promptly for furnace repairs and a thorough inspection to keep your home safe and maintain proper HVAC system performance.
Furnace Short Cycling
Furnace short cycling—turning on and off rapidly—is caused by dirty filters, poor airflow, or thermostat issues. It wastes energy, strains components, and reduces heating effectiveness. Early furnace troubleshooting may help, but persistent problems require professional furnace repairs and maintenance service to protect your HVAC system’s efficiency and longevity.
Gas Supply or Valve Issues
Rural homes near Ste. Genevieve and Scott City often use propane furnaces. Low tanks or valve problems can cause ignition failure. Corrosion and sediment may block gas flow. If your system won’t light and the tank is full, professional furnace repairs are essential for safe, effective troubleshooting and maintenance.
Wear and Tear on Older Systems
Many homeowners in Benton, Du Quoin, and surrounding areas rely on older furnaces. Time, weather changes, and inconsistent maintenance cause wear and increase furnace issues. Annual furnace maintenance service helps detect problems early and extends system life. For comprehensive care, explore Dutch Enterprises’ full heating services for Southeast Missouri and Southern Illinois homes.
Furnace & Heating Troubleshooting Tips for Homeowners
Before calling for service, there are a few safe troubleshooting steps you can take. These can help restore basic functions or rule out simple problems.
General Furnace Tips
- Check and replace dirty/clogged filters: Reduced airflow strains your system and causes overheating.
- Reset your thermostat: Power cycling or reprogramming can clear errors.
- Check for short cycling issues: Listen for frequent on-off cycling and remove any airflow obstructions.
Gas Furnace Tips
- Inspect gas supply line: If you smell gas, leave the home and call Dutch Enterprises immediately. Our 24-hour emergency services are available to restore safety and comfort quickly.
- Inspect pilot light or ignitor: If it’s not lit or clicking without ignition, the system may need cleaning or repair.
- Look for cracked heat exchanger signs: Watch for soot buildup, odd smells, or symptoms like headaches or fatigue.
Electric Furnace Tips
- Verify power supply: Make sure circuit breakers haven’t tripped.
- Listen to the heating element: A humming sound when powered on is normal—silence may mean the element has failed.
- Check blower motor: Especially in damp basements, listen for squealing or grinding, but don’t touch internal components.
Oil Furnace Tips
- Check oil supply: Tanks should be topped off before the coldest months.
- Inspect the burner: Dirty burners affect ignition and efficiency.
- Reset your system: Many oil furnaces have a reset button to restart the system after a fault.
- Schedule annual service before winter: Preventive maintenance is key for oil furnaces.
Frequently Asked Questions About Furnace Issues
Q: How often should I change my furnace filter?
A: Every 1 to 3 months, depending on dust, pets, and usage.
Q: Why is my furnace blowing cold air?
A: It may be a thermostat issue, a clogged filter, or ignition failure.
Q: How long will a furnace last?
A: Typically, 15 to 20 years with regular HVAC system maintenance.
Q: How to reset a furnace?
A: Locate the reset switch (often red) near the blower. Press it once—do not repeat if it keeps shutting off.
Q: How to relight a furnace’s pilot light?
A: Follow the instructions on the unit carefully, or call for help. Never attempt if you smell gas.
When To Call Dutch Enterprises for Professional Service
Serious furnace issues like cracked heat exchangers or gas valve failure need professional furnace repairs to avoid safety risks. Older systems may benefit from energy-efficient replacements like heat pumps suited for Southern Illinois and Southeast Missouri climates.
If your system won’t heat, makes unusual noises, or fails to turn on at all, call Dutch Enterprises at (573) 315-3751 to schedule a consultation. You can also contact us online to request service throughout Southern Illinois and Southeast Missouri.
