Furnace Repair · Santa Rosa, CA
Furnace Repair in Santa Rosa, CA
Winters in Santa Rosa are cool and wet rather than harsh, so a furnace may sit idle for months before a chilly morning calls for heat. That first start of the season is when many faults appear.
Request an HVAC technicianFirst start of the season
Dust burns off the heat exchanger the first time a furnace runs in fall, giving a brief burning smell. That's normal for a few minutes. A smell that lingers, or any smell of gas, is not.
Basic checks
Set the thermostat to heat above room temperature, check the batteries and breaker, and make sure the furnace's service switch is on and its door is closed properly, since many furnaces won't run with the door off.
The filter
A filter left in place since smoke season can be thick with dust and ash. Replace it, then try the heat again.
Cold air
If the fan runs but the air stays cold, the burners may not be lighting or may be shutting off. A dirty flame sensor, failed igniter or blocked vent are common causes.
Short cycling
A furnace that starts and stops every few minutes may be overheating from poor airflow or a dirty filter, or may have a sensor problem. It wears parts quickly, so book a check.
Attic furnaces
Attic furnaces are common in the area. They're harder to reach, so note any noises or smells and let the technician inspect the venting and gas line while they're up there.
Carbon monoxide
Every home with gas appliances needs working carbon monoxide alarms. If one sounds, get everyone outside and dial 911.
Gas smell
If you smell gas, leave the house and contact the gas utility from outside. Don't switch lights or appliances on or off.
Get help
Tell the technician the furnace's age and what it's doing. Send a request and an HVAC technician will get in touch.
Frequently asked questions
- Why does my furnace smell when I first turn it on?
- Dust on the heat exchanger burns off. It should fade within minutes. A lingering or strong smell needs a check.
- Should I replace my furnace or switch to a heat pump?
- In Santa Rosa's mild winters, many homeowners choose a heat pump when the furnace and AC are both aging. See heat pumps for the trade-offs.
Other heating and cooling services
Request an HVAC technician
Repairs, renovations and new projects. Tell us what you need and we'll pass it straight to an HVAC technician, who will call you to go over the job and give you a quote.
- Heating and cooling repairs, renovations and new projects
- Santa Rosa and towns across Sonoma County
- Get a quote before any work starts
Need furnace repair in Santa Rosa?
Send a request and an HVAC technician will get in touch. Requests answered 7 days a week.
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