Why Does My Furnace Keep Blowing Fuses?

Your furnace contains a number of fuses. Each one serves an important function. Because there are so many fuses in your heating system, dealing with an occasional blown fuse is inevitable. A blown fuse itself isn’t a serious issue, but depending on how frequently they occur, they can be an indication of a more serious underlying problem. Pickerington Heating & Cooling, located in Pickerington, Ohio, want you to be aware of the possible reasons your furnace may be blowing fuses:

Reasons Your Furnace is Blowing Fuses in Pickerington, Ohio 

Short Circuits or Wire Damage

A possible explanation for blown fuses may be loose or poorly connected wiring. This can cause your furnace to short-circuit. Not only can faulty wiring cause blown fuses, it also poses a fire hazard. It’s a good idea to have your system professionally inspected to make sure the wiring isn’t defective if you find yourself dealing with blown fuses on a regular basis. 

Thermostat Wiring is Malfunctioning 

Some thermostat models are constructed with a metal frame. In these types of thermostats, the wires may touch or be in very close proximity to one another or to the metal frame itself. This can result in the voltage being too high for the electrical system to handle. It creates a situation that causes the control board to become overloaded and blow, in which case the draft inducer will not operate. The draft inducer is a fan that is located near the heat exchanger in your furnace. It is responsible for removing the remnants of combustible gases from your system’s heating cycles, which is a critical function. If the draft inducer is unable to function, your entire heating system will shut down.

Contact with Moisture 

Furnaces often experience water leaks, and as long as they are professionally serviced no permanent damage will occur. However, if they are ignored, the result can be a rusted area in your HVAC system which can turn into a hole. This kind of damage may be irreparable. Depending on where it is located inside your system and how extensive the damage is, you may have to replace your entire HVAC system. The presence of any amount of moisture in your furnace can cause short-circuiting and blown fuses. If you have any reason to believe that moisture could be causing the problem, or if you are completely uncertain just what it could be, give Pickerington Heating & Cooling a call right away and let us find and fix the problem.

Gas Valve is Failing

If you own a gas furnace and frequently blowing fuses is an issue, you may have a problem related to the gas valve. The gas valve should be able to open and close freely in order to regulate gas flow in your furnace. If the valve itself or one of the components responsible for its operation fails to function properly, your furnace will become overheated. Not only can this cause blown fuses, it is also a fire hazard.

Clogged Air Filter

If your furnace’s air filter becomes clogged, the unit can overheat, resulting in blown fuses and a complete shutdown of your HVAC system. 

How the Air Filter Works

The air filter in your furnace traps dust dirt, debris, and other pollutants that are present in the air, and keeps them from circulating throughout your home.

The Dangers of a Dirty Air Filter

Allowing the air filter to become clogged prevents air from flowing through freely, causing your system to become overworked as it attempts to force the air through. This can permanently damage your HVAC system.

Maintaining Your Furnace’s Air Filter 

At least once every 30 days throughout the winter season, check the air filter in your furnace and change it if it is dirty. Replace it at least once during the cold-weather season, or after 90 days of use. 

Wrapping It Up: Final Thoughts on Why Your Furnace Keeps Blowing Fuses

Sometimes a blown fuse is just an inconvenience, but in some instances, it can be a warning signal. You could be dealing with faulty wiring, moisture in your HVAC system, a gas valve problem, or an air filter that needs to be replaced. Don’t take any chances. If you’re in Pickerington, Ohio, or the surrounding areas, give Pickerington Heating & Cooling a call right away and let the professionals check out the situation. 

For all your HVAC needs contact Pickerington Heating & Cooling at (614) 837-4026 or visit us on the web. One of our licensed HVAC specialists will examine your system, locate the problem, and have it repaired as quickly as possible. At Pickerington Heating & Cooling, our customers are our number one priority. We take pride in providing them with the best HVAC service in the business.