As a new homeowner, you’re probably excited to settle into your dream home, but it’s important to prepare for some unexpected costs—Even if the house passed inspection, and the furnace seemed to be in working condition, there’s a chance that you could face some common furnace repairs sooner than you’d like. Especially when it comes to your furnace. While some of these issues may seem small, they can lead to significant damage and higher bills if not addressed quickly.

Here are seven costly furnace repairs that new homeowners should be aware of:

Furnace Repairs: Dirty Ductwork

Your home’s ductwork is responsible for carrying heated air from the furnace into each room of your home. Over time, dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate inside the ducts, making it harder for your furnace to work efficiently. Dirty ducts not only lower the air quality inside your home, but they can also reduce energy efficiency, leading to higher heating bills.

As a new homeowner, it’s a good idea to have your ductwork inspected and cleaned, especially if the previous owner didn’t keep up with regular maintenance. Professional cleaning and resealing can improve airflow, lower your energy costs, and extend the life of your heating system. Doc Heating & Cooling recommends scheduling duct cleaning every three to five years.

Failing Furnace Ignitor or Starter

If you have a gas furnace, the ignitor or starter plays a crucial role in igniting the fuel that powers the furnace. Over time, these components can wear out and fail, preventing your furnace from starting up. You may notice that the furnace won’t turn on at all, or it might attempt to start and fail multiple times before heating.

A broken ignitor is a common repair that can catch new homeowners off guard, especially during the cold months. Replacing this part can be a relatively straightforward fix, but it’s essential to address it quickly to avoid a cold home or further damage to the system.

Malfunctioning Thermostat

Your furnace can only work as well as your thermostat allows it to. If your thermostat is outdated, mis calibrated, or malfunctioning, it could cause your furnace to cycle on and off erratically, leading to uneven heating or high energy costs.

Upgrading to a smart thermostat is a great way to optimize your energy use. These devices allow you to adjust temperature settings remotely, create heating schedules, and even receive energy-saving tips. Plus, a properly functioning thermostat ensures your furnace is heating your home efficiently and no unexpected furnace repairs.

Bad Flame Sensor

The flame sensor in your furnace ensures that gas ignites correctly and shuts off the gas supply if the flame fails. A faulty flame sensor can cause the furnace to shut down prematurely or fail to ignite at all. This can lead to frequent cycling or a complete lack of heat in your home.

If you notice your furnace cycling on and off frequently, or if it’s making strange noises, a bad flame sensor could be to blame. It’s essential to have a professional inspect and repair the sensor to avoid safety hazards and prevent your furnace from malfunctioning when you need it most. This is a simple furnace repair, and can save you the heartache of having no heat when you need it most.

Blower Motor Problems

The blower motor is responsible for pushing the warm air from the furnace into your home’s ducts. If the motor is broken or failing, you might hear strange noises, notice a lack of airflow, or experience overheating in your furnace. The furnace may even shut down as a safety measure to prevent further damage.

A failing blower motor is a more significant repair and may require replacement of the entire motor. It’s critical to address this issue early to avoid long-term damage to your heating system and ensure your home stays warm during the winter months.

Cracked Heat Exchanger

One of the most serious furnace issues you could face is a cracked heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is responsible for transferring heat from the combustion chamber to the air that blows into your home. If the exchanger cracks, it can lead to dangerous carbon monoxide leaks—a hazard that requires immediate attention.

This is not a repair you want to delay, as carbon monoxide is odorless and highly toxic. Regular furnace inspections can help catch cracks before they become a serious issue. If you’re buying a home with an older furnace, it’s especially important to have a professional check for signs of damage to the heat exchanger.

Clogged or Dirty Filters

While changing furnace filters may seem like a minor task, neglecting to do so can lead to significant problems down the line. Dirty filters restrict airflow, causing your furnace to work harder than necessary. This can lead to overheating, system shutdowns, and even damage to internal components.

New homeowners often forget about this simple yet essential furnace repairs maintenance task. Make sure to replace your furnace filters regularly—typically every one to three months—to keep your system running smoothly and efficiently.

The Importance of Professional Furnace Maintenance

Furnace repairs are an inevitable part of homeownership, but regular maintenance can help you avoid the worst. When you move into a new home, it’s essential to schedule a comprehensive furnace inspection with a trusted HVAC professional. Doc Heating & Cooling offers expert furnace maintenance services in Clarksville, TN, to help you get ahead of potential problems and ensure your system is in top shape.

By catching small issues early, you can save yourself from costly repairs and extend the life of your heating system. Whether it’s cleaning your ducts, replacing filters, or upgrading your thermostat, we’ll help you keep your furnace running efficiently all year long.