Furnace Repair in Reston
Fixing Broken Furnaces in Reston and Herndon Since 1975
Is your home feeling unusually cold? Are there strange banging or groaning sounds coming from behind your walls at night? Before you start worrying about ghosts, consider contacting a local furnace repair company. These are common signs of heating issues, which can typically be resolved by an experienced HVAC technician. Keep reading to learn more about furnaces and how to fix them.
Signs Your Furnace Has a Problem
Sometimes, issues can arise during the heating process. While this may result in an obvious problem—a complete furnace breakdown—it’s not always that clear. Often, the signs that you need to call a Reston HVAC contractor are much more subtle. To prevent small issues from turning into major problems, keep an eye out for the following:
- Unusual Smells: When you first turn on your furnace for the season, you might notice a musty smell from dust burning off. This is normal and should disappear soon. However, if you notice a persistent or new odor, it’s time to call a Reston HVAC professional.
- Strange Noises: A banging or other odd sounds from your furnace could signal multiple issues. It’s best to have a heating expert diagnose the problem. Call 571.346.3940 to schedule furnace repair in Reston or Herndon.
- More Service Calls: Every furnace needs occasional repairs. However, frequent service calls may indicate that your furnace is nearing the end of its life. Note that this doesn’t include routine maintenance visits.
- Higher Utility Bills: If your bills are rising without an obvious cause, like colder temperatures, it could signal that your furnace is overworked. Have our Reston HVAC experts check it out. It might be time for a furnace replacement.
- Visible Rust: Some rust is normal with age, but excessive rust—especially on the flue—could indicate venting issues. If leaks cause rust on your furnace, it can be dangerous. Contact Dave’s Heating and Air Conditioning to prevent risks like carbon monoxide exposure.
- Frequent Cycling: If your furnace keeps turning on and off, something is causing it to malfunction. It’s tough to pinpoint without professional help. Trust our Reston heating repair experts to fix it.
- Start-Up Issues: If your furnace struggles to start or you hear clicking noises, it’s a sign that a breakdown could be coming. Call Dave’s Heating and Air Conditioning by phone or schedule a service online.
No matter the size or complexity of the issue, Dave’s Heating and Air Conditioning is here to take care of your furnace repair. While we primarily serve Sterling, Herndon, and Reston, we are also widely trusted in the surrounding areas.
The Top 5 Causes of Furnace Failure
Homeowners should be aware of the furnace parts that are most prone to failure. This knowledge helps them better communicate heating issues with us. When repairing heating systems in Reston, we commonly encounter the following problems, some of which could save you a service call:
- Clogged Filters: When was the last time you changed your furnace filter? If it’s been more than a few weeks, especially with pets in the home, it’s time to check it. Your heating system pulls in dust, dander, and dirt, and the filter keeps these out of the mechanical parts. A clogged filter restricts airflow, making your furnace work harder. Replacing it improves both efficiency and air quality.
- Bad Thermostats: Your thermostat signals the furnace to turn on and off to maintain your desired temperature. If it’s malfunctioning, your home won’t get warm. Check the batteries (if applicable), and ensure it’s set to HEAT with the run method on AUTO. If the thermostat is still faulty, you may need a replacement. Learn more about thermostat issues.
- Ignition Failure: If the pilot light or surface ignitor fails, your furnace won’t heat the air. To prevent this, have it regularly checked and cleaned by an HVAC professional. If you’re in the middle of winter, call our Reston HVAC contractors at 571.346.3940 for a quick fix.
- Exhaust Blower Issues: The exhaust blower vents combustion gases outdoors. If it fails, your furnace may cycle on and off or shut down. Regular inspections and maintenance visits can help avoid this issue.
- Blower Motor Failure: The blower motor circulates heated air throughout your home. If it fails, the warm air won’t reach your living spaces. It can fail due to overheating or debris buildup. To keep it running smoothly, clean your ducts and have your furnace tuned up.
- Bad Heat Exchanger: The heat exchanger is critical to your furnace’s operation. If it develops cracks or holes, it’s costly to replace. Sometimes, it’s more practical to replace the furnace altogether. An expert can evaluate the situation, but keep in mind that replacing only the heat exchanger may not solve the problem if excessive cycling caused the damage.
Fortunately, we can take care of all these issues and more! Dave’s Heating and Air Conditioning is your trusted expert for furnace maintenance and repairs in Reston. Don’t let furnace problems disrupt your day—reach out to us at 571.346.3940 for prompt service.
Trust Us to Tackle Your Furnace Problems in Reston or Herndon
When it comes to furnace repair in Reston or Sterling, we understand you have many HVAC companies to choose from, but not all of them are created equal.
When your furnace needs repair or replacement, trust the experts at Dave’s Heating and Air Conditioning! As our long list of satisfied customers shows, many of your neighbors already trust us. With 49 years of experience serving the Reston area, we have the expertise to fix your furnace or replace the old one. Our clear services and procedures ensure the job is done right. When it comes to furnace repair, you can count on Dave’s Heating and Air Conditioning for top-quality products and workmanship. Contact us today to schedule your furnace repair in Reston.
Frequently Asked Furnace Repair Questions
Why Isn’t My Furnace Reaching the Temperature I Set?
If your furnace in Reston isn’t matching the thermostat setting, there are a few possible causes. The most common is a clogged air filter that reduces airflow and efficiency. Other potential issues include:
- An aging or malfunctioning furnace
- A faulty thermostat
- Blocked or closed vents
- Issues with the pilot light or flame sensor
Why Is My Furnace in Reston Blowing Cold Air?
If your furnace in Reston is blowing cold air, the cause could be simple or more complex. First, check your thermostat to make sure it’s set to heat. If that’s not the issue, the problem might be with the flame sensor or ductwork leaks. Our technicians can quickly diagnose and resolve the issue for you.
How Much Does Furnace Repair Cost in Reston?
Furnace repair costs in Reston depend on the issue. Minor repairs, such as sensor replacements, can cost as little as $100, while major repairs like heat exchanger replacements may run into the thousands. Most standard repairs range from $300 to $800. Older systems often face costlier issues, making regular maintenance essential.
What Should I Do Before Calling for Furnace Repair in Reston?
Before calling a professional for furnace repair in Reston, check these items:
- Replace dirty air filters
- Ensure your thermostat is set correctly
- Confirm the pilot light is lit
- Check if the furnace circuit breaker has tripped
- Open any closed air vents
Why Is My Furnace in Reston Making Strange Noises?
If your furnace in Reston is making unusual noises, it’s likely due to a mechanical issue. Common causes include:
- Dirty burners causing booming sounds
- Cracked heat exchangers making popping noises
- Faulty blower motors buzzing or grinding
- Loose screws or bolts rattling during operation
- Expanding or contracting ductwork
When Should I Schedule Furnace Repair in Reston?
Some signs it’s time to call for furnace repair in Reston include:
- Persistent burning smells
- Thermostat error codes
- Frequent cycling of the furnace
- Weak airflow or no heat
- Unusual popping or banging noises
- A sudden increase in energy bills
Why Is My Furnace in Reston Leaking Water?
Water leaking from a furnace can be surprising, but newer high-efficiency systems often produce condensation. Common causes include:
- Clogged condensation drains
- Damaged heat exchanger
- Faulty condensate pumps
- Air conditioner or humidifier issues
Can I Relight the Pilot Light on My Furnace in Reston?
Older furnaces in Reston may have a standing pilot light that can occasionally go out. To safely relight it:
- Turn off the gas and wait five minutes.
- Set the gas valve to “Pilot” and press the reset button.
- Use a long lighter to ignite the flame.
- Once the light is steady, release the button and turn the valve to “On.”
What’s the Big Deal About Cracked Furnace Heat Exchangers?
A cracked heat exchanger is a serious safety risk for furnaces in Reston. It can lead to incomplete combustion, allowing carbon monoxide—a dangerous gas—to leak into your home. Replacing a heat exchanger is expensive, so it’s often more cost-effective to replace the entire furnace. Our experts can evaluate the best solution for your home.
Why Won’t My Furnace Shut Off in Reston or Herndon?
If your furnace runs continuously, it could be due to a thermostat issue, clogged air filters, dirty flame sensors, or a blocked flue. These problems waste energy and may overheat your system. Call 571.346.3940 for quick diagnosis and repair.
Should I Go with the Cheapest Furnace Repair Option in Reston?
A low-cost furnace repair might seem appealing, but it can lead to issues such as:
- Subpar parts that fail quickly
- Incomplete system inspections
- Untrained technicians
- Pressure from contractors recommending unnecessary replacements
- No warranty on the work
What Furnace Brands Does Dave's Repair in Reston?
At Dave’s, we repair all major furnace brands in Reston, including Lennox, Carrier, Trane, and Goodman. Our experienced technicians are equipped to diagnose and resolve any issue, no matter the make or model of your system.
How Do I Stop My Furnace in Reston from Being So Loud?
Loud furnaces are usually caused by high fan speeds, unbalanced ductwork, or obstructions. Try lowering the blower fan setting first. If the noise persists, call 571.346.3940 for help adjusting your system for quieter operation.
What’s Causing My Furnace to Smell in Reston?
Strange smells from your furnace in Reston can be caused by:
- Burning dust during startup
- Mold or mildew in the system
- Electrical burning from a short circuit*
- Rotten egg smells from a gas leak*
- Grime in the heat exchanger
How Can I Lengthen the Time Between Furnace Repairs in Reston?
Routine maintenance is essential for prolonging your furnace’s life. Schedule yearly tune-ups with Dave’s, replace filters regularly, and address minor issues such as odd noises or thermostat problems before they escalate. Preventative care can help avoid expensive repairs.
How Do I Clean My Furnace’s Flame Sensor in Reston?
If your furnace clicks on and off repeatedly, it may be due to a dirty flame sensor. Here’s how to clean it:
- Turn off power and gas to the furnace
- Locate the flame sensor near the burner
- Remove the sensor and clean it with fine-grit sandpaper
- Replace the sensor and restore power
Should I Try Furnace Repairs Myself in Reston?
While tasks like changing filters can be done yourself, most furnace repairs should be handled by professionals. Furnaces contain electrical, gas, and mechanical components that can be hazardous. For safe and reliable repairs, contact Dave’s.