Why Is My Furnace Leaking?
In a perfect setting, our machines and equipment do not need to be repaired or replaced. They would be in perfect working order for a very long time. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work like that. Modern furnaces are tough. However, just like any other machine, they will experience a problem somewhere down the line. For instance, your furnace might start leaking. A gas furnace leaking water will result in a stressful and uncomfortable home environment, especially if the cause is something serious.
Reasons For Furnace Leaks
Contents
There are a couple of possible reasons for furnace leaks. This article will discuss what these are and the steps to take when you find your furnace leaking water.
Condensation Leak In Furnace
Many modern furnaces are highly efficient. Some are even equipped with two heat exchangers so that they can produce more heat. During the heating process, condensation is formed. These water droplets are drained through the pipes or floor drain. However, if the pipes are clogged or damaged, the water cannot drain properly. It will instead leak out of the furnace and pool around the base of your furnace.
Clogged Furnace Filter
The furnace filter ensures that your indoor air is clean. It does so by collecting the dirt, dust, and other debris in the air. It is recommended that you check the filters regularly as they can get clogged. When this happens, the indoor air quality will go down. Air cannot also flow properly. The latter will cause coils to freeze or pipes to clog. These issues will eventually lead to leaking. Therefore, it is essential to check your furnace filter periodically. Clean or replace it as needed so that this problem is prevented.
HVAC Humidifier Leak
A humidifier generates moisture to keep the air from being dry and cause discomfort. Check to see if your home humidifier is connected to your heating system. If this is the cause, it might be the reason for the leak as your humidifier might have failed and is leaking into your heating system.
Air Conditioner Leak
If you use your A/C hand-in-hand with your heating system and there is a leak, it might be due to your AC. The water from your cooling system is drained and collected into the condensation pan. Once this becomes full, the water could trickle into your furnace. As the water is leaking from your furnace, you might mistake it as a furnace leak when, in fact, you have a leaking air conditioner.
Plumbing Leak
A plumbing system leak could have a negative impact on your heating unit. It is recommended that you check your plumbing system when you suspect a furnace leak. Your plumbing might be having some issues, such as a clogged or broken pipe. These can cause the drainage to back up, and a leak could appear at the base of your furnace. Make sure to contact a professional to resolve any plumbing issues you have.
Heat Exchanger Leak
If you have checked all causes mentioned above and you still haven’t found the reason, you might have a leaking heat exchanger on your hands. Unfortunately, this can be an expensive and severe problem. The heat exchanger needs to be repaired, or you might have to buy a new furnace, depending on how serious the problem is. Discuss all possible solutions with your local trusted HVAC technician. This way, you can choose the best course of action to take.
Steps To Take When You Have A Furnace Leak
Call a professional furnace repair company and schedule a service appointment as soon as possible when you notice a leak from your furnace. Here are a few safety measures you can do while you wait for help to arrive:
- Shut off your furnace immediately. If you cannot locate the power button, switch it off through the breaker that supplies power to your heating unit.
- Make sure the furnace base is dry. You can use dry rags or a mop to absorb the water. Use a wet-dry vacuum if possible. This way, you prevent water from damaging your furnace and your home.
- Check the furnace filter, especially if it hasn’t been cleaned or replaced for a while. Clean washable HVAC filters, and replace disposable ones.
Why Hire A Professional Heating Technician
Repairing or replacing your HVAC unit should never be a DIY project. A furnace is a specialized machine made up of complex components. Most homeowners do not possess the necessary training, tools, and skills to conduct proper furnace repairs. You might damage your furnace more if you do not know what to do. If that happens, you’ll end up having to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars to get the much-needed heating repairs and replacements.
Experts always recommend that a professional HVAC technician conduct a proper heating unit inspection. This way, all issues can be diagnosed and repaired correctly. Do not call a handyman. All repairs should only be performed by those with proper certification, license, and extensive training. If your furnace is experiencing problems, switch it off and contact a professional HVAC repair service company right away.
Conclusion
Our furnaces are responsible for keeping our homes warm and comfortable during the cold season. Any problems it might have will not only cause inconvenience. It can also significantly affect your home’s comfort and efficiency. If there is a leaking problem with your furnace, it is best to have an HVAC expert check and repair it immediately.
Call Point Bay Fuel For All Of Your HVAC Requirements
If you are looking for excellent heating and cooling services in Monmouth and Ocean Counties, New Jersey, do not hesitate to contact Point Bay Fuel. Our professionally certified and trained technicians offer superior HVAC services, such as furnace repairs, AC maintenance, ductless installations, and boiler replacements. We have knowledgeable and experienced techs who are guaranteed to conduct accurate and fast HVAC services.
Point Bay Fuel has the most competitive heating and cooling service rates in the area. Our tune-up services help improve your home comfort and energy efficiency while reducing your HVAC costs. We can also recommend the most suitable and budget-friendly HVAC make and model for your home. Your satisfaction is important to us. All our services come with a guarantee. Give Point Bay Fuel a call to schedule a service appointment today. We offer free, no-obligation, in-home estimates.
Contact us now by calling (732) 349-5059 to speak to one of our home comfort specialists!