How Furnaces Work
Many furnaces use forced air systems to push heated air into the home through a series of ducts and vents. For gas furnaces, this essentially occurs when a pilot light heats fuel using burners. The heat is then transferred to air that is blown into your living spaces.
Furnaces have a lot of important components that work together to keep heated air pumping into your home, and there may be times when you need to access certain parts like the pilot light. You also need to know how long crucial components should last so you can have them repaired or replaced before they fail and interrupt the flow of heat into your home. Rowland Air can help you with this, just call 800-500-9068, to schedule an appointment.
How Long do Furnace Blower Motors Last?
Barring any defects, you should expect your blower motor to last a minimum of 10 years, as evidenced by the fact that this is when most warranties for parts expire. With proper maintenance, cleaning, and repairs, however, this component could last much longer, perhaps as much as 15-20 years, or as long as the typical life of your furnace.
Where is the Furnace Pilot Light?
The furnace pilot light is usually in an easy-to-reach area, especially if it’s a manual ignition model. Typically, there is a small door you can remove that allows immediate access to the pilot so you can easily light it if it goes out. Some pilots are automatic, which means they are lit electronically when the furnace kicks on and then extinguished when off. A manual pilot light should always be lit, unless it has accidentally gone out.
Where is the Flame Sensor in the Furnace?
The flame sensor in your furnace is an important safety feature. It is generally located on the burner assembly, near the pilot light, and the purpose is to measure gas ignition and shut down the flow of fuel if readings aren’t within set limits, as a way to avoid possible explosion.
How Long Do Furnace Igniters Last?
Furnace ignitors, which light burners to start combustion and transform fuel into heat, are often made of materials like silicon carbide or nitride that act as conductors for electricity. You can expect your ignitor to last about 4-7 years, after which the part can be replaced to increase the usable life of your furnace.
What are Furnace Heat Exchangers Made Of?
Heat exchangers require materials that offer thermal conductivity, which is why they’re often made of robust metals like steel, titanium, or copper. They may also be made from ceramics or other materials, but they have to be resilient, since most companies offer a limited lifetime warranty on this particular part.
If you’re in need of furnace maintenance, repair, or replacement, or you simply want to learn more about how your furnace functions, contact the qualified professionals at Rowland Air today at 800-500-9068.