#1 Furnace REPAIR IN TULSA OK

FURNACE REPAIR SERVICES - TULSA OK

With winter just around the corner in Oklahoma, now's the right time to start preparing your furnace or heat pump for the cold weather. This means both professional maintenance and do-it-yourself tasks, to make sure your forced-air heating system will be ready when the temperatures go south of freezing.

Preparing your heating system for winter early is a good idea since many HVAC businesses get very busy once cold weather arrives.

A professional furnace or heat pump maintenance visit will accomplish the following:

• Enhance energy efficiency. An efficient furnace or heat pump will require less energy to provide comfortable heating than a system for which maintenance has been neglected.

• Ensure safety. The technician will inspect and adjust your heating system to minimize the risk of fire or hazardous gas leaks in a combustion furnace, or electrical or refrigerant issues in a heat pump.

• Repair small problems before they turn into big, expensive ones.

• Ensure proper airflow so all parts of your home are evenly and comfortably heated.

What Happens During Professional Maintenance?

While different levels of maintenance are available, a comprehensive heating system maintenance visit will include an inspection of your equipment and air distribution system. The technician should clean and lubricate moving parts, check the thermostat, electrical connections and system controls, and perform appropriate diagnostic tests. They'll also replace the air filter if necessary.

With furnace maintenance, the technician will check and/or adjust the ignition system and combustion burners, making sure the burners aren't clogged. They'll check that the exhaust system is working correctly, among other things.If you have a heat pump, the technician should check the refrigerant level, ensure that heat-exchange coils are clean, and make sure the condensate drain system isn't clogged.

Homeowner maintenance steps include regular air filter checks, making sure the area around the heating appliance is clean and clear of clutter, and removing any items that might be blocking heating vents and registers.

To schedule a fall maintenance tune-up for your heating system, please contact us at Air Assurance, providing quality HVAC services to Broken Arrow and the surrounding area.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about furnaces and other HVAC topics, call us at 918-217-8273.

Furnace Not heating Up?

furnace not heating - tulsa, ok

If your furnace isn't warming your home as it should, there may be a simple solution that doesn't require the assistance of an HVAC pro. The following tips can help you troubleshoot the problem.

• Make sure that the thermostat is set correctly. It should be in "heat" mode, and the temperature called for must be above the room temperature that's displayed. Also check that the fan is in the "auto" position so that it only operates when the furnace is running.

• Check the thermostat itself. If you have a digital thermostat, replacing the batteries may solve the problem. With an older, manual unit, remove the cover and clean the contacts.

• Examine the furnace filter. If the filter's clogged with dirt, it can adversely affect the flow of warm air that arrives at your registers. To maximize your furnace's efficiency during the heating season, clean or replace the filter once a month.

• Check the gas shutoff position. The shutoff is located along the gas line that runs from your furnace, and the handle must be set parallel to the pipe so that fuel reaches the burner.

• Look inside your breaker box. Is the furnace not warming your home at all? A tripped breaker could be the reason why. If everything looks fine inside your main electrical service box, check for a blown fuse and/or flipped breaker in the furnace's blower compartment.

• Check your pilot light. If the pilot light has gone out on your older furnace, look for instructions on how to relight it right on the unit, next to the pilot light opening. Alternately, they should be in your owner's manual.

If the above tips don't help, or if you have a newer heating system with an intermittent or hot surface ignition, give your HVAC professional a call. He or she may diagnose another common problem such as inadequate airflow to the combustion chamber, or a dirty gas burner.

Is your furnace not warming your home and you need expert help? Contact us today at Air Assurance. We've provided outstanding service to Broken Arrow area homeowners for more than 30 years.

Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). 

What Is Involved in a Traditional Furnace Inspection?

If you haven't scheduled your annual furnace inspection yet, it's important to do it soon. Before you start using the unit for the season, you need to ensure that it's working properly and not wasting energy. What's involved in the process? Read on to learn what to expect from your inspection.

• Component inspection. Your HVAC technician will look at the furnace unit's internal components, such as the fan belt, blower motor, burner, and heat exchanger, as well as the wiring. Are all the parts working properly? They'll oil the moving parts and check for damage and signs of wear throughout. If there are any issues, they can repair or replace the part now rather than waiting until it fails and causes bigger problems.

• Thermostat calibration. Sometimes the temperature on your thermostat doesn't match the actual temperature of your house. Your technician will run a test to make sure the readings are accurate, then calibrate the temperature settings to maximize both comfort and efficiency. They'll also check the thermostat's batteries and internal workings to ensure it runs properly.

• Airflow. Are there blockages in your vents? Do your ducts leak? Does your air filter need replacing? There are a variety of factors that can affect your system's airflow. As part of the furnace inspection, your HVAC technician will check to make sure the air from your furnace is actually reaching your home. You can also schedule a home energy audit in addition to your regular furnace inspection to find air leaks in your home.

• Gas. For gas furnaces, your technician will need to check the fuel line. Carbon monoxide leaks are dangerous (even lethal), so it's important to see that all the gas goes where it's supposed to. They'll test the gas pressure to ensure you're getting the right amount and check the thermocouple to ensure all the gas is getting burned, rather than building up or leaking. If you have an older furnace, they'll also check the pilot light, and for modern units, they'll check the ignition.

To schedule a quality furnace inspection for your home, contact us at Air Assurance. We keep Broken Arrow HVAC systems running at peak efficiency.

Is It Time to Buy a New Furnace for Your Home This Winter?

If you don't pay much attention to your furnace, you may not realize it needs replacement until it's too late and inconvenient. Your furnace will give some warning signs that your furnace may be approaching the end of its life span. Here's how to know when it may be time to invest in a new furnace.

Old Age

Furnaces generally last between 15 and 30 years. If your furnace is more than 15 years old and giving you trouble, it could be reaching the end of its service life. You may need to replace it in the near future.

Higher Energy Bills

A unit with one foot out the door will operate less efficiently. It will use more energy to heat your house, resulting in higher energy bills than usual.

Frequent Repairs

Furnaces usually need more frequent and costly repairs in the last years of their lives. If your old furnace has required multiple repairs recently, it may be time to replace it.

Loud, Strange Noises

A furnace making loud, unusual noises should be a cause for concern. Noises such as clicking, rattling, popping, bumping, and banging could indicate that your furnace needs repair or even that it's time for a new furnace.

Yellow Flame

The pilot flame can give you an idea of the condition of your furnace. For a functional, efficient furnace, the pilot flame will be clean and bright blue. A yellow flame is a sign that the furnace isn't burning off the gas that's entering it as cleanly as it should. A weak yellow flame could indicate that the gas isn't burning out or there's improper ventilation. You'll need to have the furnace checked as soon as possible.

Uneven Heating

Furnaces can lose the ability to deliver heat evenly to an entire home as they age, especially if they've lasted longer than 15 years. If some rooms are toasty while others are chilly, your furnace could be nearing the end of its life.

If your heating unit no longer works as efficiently as it used to, it may be time to get a new furnace. If you're unsure whether you need a new furnace, you could contact an HVAC professional for help. If you're in the Broken Arrow area, don't hesitate to contact Air Assurance for assistance with all your furnace replacement, installation, repair, and maintenance needs.

How to Care for Your Furnace When It's Dormant

furance maintenance services - tulsa, ok

Most households stop using their furnace once the spring season arrives because they simply don't need it anymore. However, you still want to care for the unit and prepare it before the winter season so that when the weather gets cold again, the system is operating properly. Here are a few furnace-care tips that you should follow:

Hire an HVAC Technician

The first thing to remember about keeping any type of HVAC equipment running smoothly is to have it checked out by a professional technician at least once every year. The warmer months are the perfect time to have your furnace maintenance scheduled, because the techs won't be busy with those types of requests.

Test It Out Periodically

The last thing you want is to turn on the furnace at the beginning of the cold season only to find that it's probably not been working for a while. Test it out by letting the system run periodically to see if it seems to be functioning properly, especially as you get closer to the winter months.

Clean or Replace the Air filter

It's always best that you check your furnace's air filter once per month, but there's a good chance that you didn't take a look at it when the winter season ended. To make sure you're ready for the next winter season, check to see if the filter is filled up and then either clean or replace it if that's the case.

Remove All Obstructions

Since you won't be using the furnace for a while, you and other household members may get a little careless with regard to placing obstructions near the equipment, which can impede its operation and act as a fire hazard. Before you turn the system on again, be sure to remove anything that's been placed close to the unit.

As you can see, proper furnace care doesn't take a whole lot of time or effort. If you would like more tips or need service for your home or business, the experts at Air Assurance can assist you. We've been serving the needs of Broken Arrow and the surrounding areas since 1985.

What to Do If Your Home Furnace Is Blowing Cold Air

Few things can make life in your Broken Arrow home more frustrating and uncomfortable in the winter than a furnace that's blowing cold air. Several issues could cause your furnace to act up in this way. Keep reading to learn more about these issues with cold air and what you can do to restore normal functioning to your furnace.

Thermostat Settings

If your thermostat is set to "On" rather than "Auto," the furnace fan will run continuously, including when your furnace isn't producing heat. As a result, the system may circulate cool air between the heating cycles. Change the thermostat fan setting to "Auto" to ensure that the blower runs only during the heating cycles.

Clogged Air Filter

An air filter clogged with airborne pollutants restricts airflow and can lead to overheating and short-cycling of the furnace. If your furnace is blowing cold air and your thermostat has been set correctly, you may need to remove and clean (or replace) your filter.

The Pilot Light Has Gone Out

If your gas furnace has a pilot light and is blowing cold air, the reason could be that the pilot light has gone out. If you've set your thermostat correctly and see that there's no flame when you check the pilot light assembly, you'll need to relight the pilot flame. Furnace instruction kits usually have details on how to check and relight the pilot light.

Flame-Sensor Problems

A flame sensor that's worn out or covered in dust, dirt, and grime will make your furnace shut off because of its inability to detect the burner flame correctly. Cleaning the flame sensor may solve the issue. You may also need to have the sensor replaced.

Leaky Ductwork

Cracks and holes will allow warm air to escape and cold air to enter your ductwork and be circulated throughout your home. Duct sealing will eliminate these leaks.

Clogged Condensate Drain Lines

The latest furnace models have condensate lines to help remove excess moisture. Your furnace may not work properly if there's a blockage in the lines. It's best to have an HVAC professional clean clogged furnace-drain lines.

If your furnace is blowing cold air despite your best efforts to rectify the issue, don't hesitate to contact an HVAC professional. Don't forget that furnace maintenance will help you avoid this and many other problems. Contact Air Assurance if you need furnace installation, repair, or maintenance in the Broken Arrow area.

Buying a New Furnace? Here’s What You Should Know.

Having a reliable and efficient furnace can help ensure that your Broken Arrow home stays cool and your energy bills stay low. When you plan on buying a new furnace, how do you know what to get? Consider the following factors when choosing a furnace for your home.

Energy Efficiency

Look for a furnace that offers high efficiency, which will help keep your energy usage and bills low. Furnaces that use gas, oil, or propane have Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) ratings that tell you how efficient they are. You can also check the EnergyGuide label on furnaces to learn more about their energy efficiency.

Furnace Size

This refers to heating capacity rather than the actual physical size of the furnace. An HVAC expert can determine the right-size furnace for your home to make sure you get enough heat based on your home's size and other factors.

Furnace Type

You can choose from electric, gas, oil, or propane furnaces. Although it’s easier to stick with the same type as your current furnace, you can have a different type installed if you desire. For example, you can switch from a gas furnace to an electric furnace.

Blower Type

Single-speed, multispeed, and variable-speed blower types are available. Variable-speed furnaces offer the highest amount of efficiency. Single-speed blowers are on or off, while multispeed blowers run on low, medium, or high.

Burner Type

Single-stage, two-stage, and modulating burners are your options when purchasing a new furnace. Modulating burners offer the most efficiency. This type can adjust levels from off to high. Single-stage burners are either on or off, while dual-stage burners can run on low or high.

Budget

When choosing a new furnace, consider your budget. In general, electric furnaces have lower installation costs and tend to cost less upfront than natural gas furnaces. However, gas furnaces tend to generate less-expensive heating bills than electric furnaces do.

If you’re ready to choose a new furnace and schedule installation, please contact Air Assurance. Our HVAC experts can help you select the right furnace for your home.

Why Is There Sometimes Furnace Leakage in Your Home?

If you notice a puddle of water forming around your furnace, you probably have furnace leakage. There are several reasons why your furnace may leak water. What you should do to remedy the issue varies from one situation to another. Noted below are the common reasons for furnace leakage, along with their solutions.

Blocked Drain Line

A high-efficiency furnace creates condensation when releasing exhaust gases. The condensation drains into either a floor drain or a condensate pump. A clogged drain line can make the condensate back up and create a furnace leak. A professional can inspect and clean out the drain line. Meanwhile, consider wrapping a rag around the drain line's end and sweeping out anything blocking it.

Malfunctioning Condensate Pump

Condensate pumps mostly last between three and five years. After this period, they may fail to function optimally. A malfunctioning pump may make the water back up, potentially resulting in furnace leakage. You'll need to schedule a professional furnace inspection.

Dirty Filter

When your filter plugs up, your furnace is forced to work harder to push heated air to different areas of your home. Condensation buildup may occur around the filter and eventually leak onto the floor. You'll need to clean or replace the filter.

Issues with the Secondary Heat Exchanger

High-efficiency furnaces have secondary heat exchangers. The flue or exhaust gas undergoes additional heat exchange here, forming water vapor. A problem with the secondary heat exchanger, such as a calcium carbonate clog, can cause increased condensation on the floor below. A professional will have to inspect the heat exchanger.

Vent Pipe Blockage

Clogs in the vent pipe that leads outside can cause a furnace leak. Fixing the problem will require the assistance of a trained HVAC technician.

Ignoring a furnace leak could lead to bigger problems, such as mold growth, health problems, and property damage. If you need help fixing furnace leakage or any other HVAC issue in the Broken Arrow area, don't hesitate to contact the trained professionals at Air Assurance.

5 Reasons You Need An Annual Furnace Tune-Up - Air Assurance

Top 5 Reasons for Furnace Maintenance Tune Up

Top 5 Reasons to schedule your annual furnace service with Air Assurance and stay ahead of any seasonal breakdowns. Neglect is the number #1 reason why mechanical system fail.

Energy Savings - With the system clean, filter changed, gas pressures set correctly….it can mean the difference in your comfort and the performance on your utility savings during the fall and winter months.

Safe Operation - AC clean and check service is all about efficiencies. But the furnace check is all about safety. Safety from fire. Safety from Carbon Monoxide potentials and more.

Early Detection - You don’t wait until you have a flat tire on the highway to buy new tires right? When you notice the tread wearing and the tire becoming bald it affects performance. Stay ahead of any potential break downs this season.

Optimize Performance - Our technicians will use a combustion analyzer to determine how efficient you furnace is operating….and we can make adjustments to make sure you get the best performance.

Peace of Mind - We check over 25 items during our heating and furnace check to give you comfort and peace of mind.

Call Air Assurance to inquire or schedule your AC or Furnace clean and check maintenance service today!

Air Assurance Company

Serving Tulsa, Broken Arrow, Jenks, Sapulpa, Owasso, and more. Call Today!

Furnace Maintenance

The furnace burner is the heart of your central heating system. It’s the component that mixes air with natural gas and produces a clean-burning, high-temperature flame that generates heat for the whole house. A clean, intact furnace burner also ensures maximum fuel efficiency and low operating costs while minimizing the amount of combustion byproducts, including dangerous carbon monoxide. Here are some details about the process:

The Burner Cycle

In a typical gas-fired furnace, heating and burner operation are divided into several stages:

• Signaling for Heat. When the household temperature drops below the thermostat setting, the furnace receives a signal to initiate heating from the system thermostat.

• Fuel Delivery. The furnace fuel valve opens to start the flow of natural gas to the burner. At the same time, air from the furnace air intake blends with gas flow to provide the right mixture for clean, safe ignition and combustion.

• Ignition. The mixture of natural gas and air is ignited at the burner. Ignition may be provided by a pilot light — a small flame that runs continuously — or, more commonly in newer furnaces, by an electric igniter that produces a spark.

• Heat Transfer. Heat produced by the burner enclosed within the combustion chamber is added to the HVAC system's airflow by the heat exchanger. This vital component incorporates air passages to transfer heat efficiently to the airflow while sealing out dangerous gases.

• Heated Air Circulation. Heated air is pulled into the ductwork by the system blower and distributed throughout the house and into each individual room through supply air vents.

• Burner Shutdown. When household temperatures reach the desired setting, the thermostat sends a signal to shut off gas flow until temperatures drop again and the heating cycle repeats.

Furnace Burner Maintenance

Checking the burner is a critical part of annual furnace maintenance by a qualified HVAC contractor. The technician can verify proper burner operation by sampling and analyzing combustion gases. The burner in a gas furnace may require professional cleaning at intervals to support efficient and safe operation. 

For more about furnace burner operation and annual professional furnace maintenance, contact Air Assurance. 

How Hot Is Too Hot for Your Furnace?

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Although your furnace produces hot air for your Broken Arrow home, the furnace itself shouldn't overheat. Too-hot furnaces can result in costly and significant damage. Therefore, it's crucial to understand what can cause your furnace to overheat, how to recognize an overheating furnace, and what you can do to fix the issue.

What You Should Know About Furnace Overheating

The internal temperature of your furnace can rise rapidly beyond what's needed for regular operation when there's a blockage somewhere within the system. For example, a filter clogged with dust, lint, and other debris may prevent air from flowing freely out of your furnace. The limited airflow increases the risk of the furnace overheating.

Having some of your vents closed or blocked — or something falling on your furnace and blocking it — could also cause an obstruction. When trapped hot air has nowhere to go, it places a lot of pressure on your furnace and can cause it to overheat.

Your furnace also has protection mechanisms that prevent it from overheating. These mechanisms can fail and lead to overheating.

An overheating furnace may shut down unexpectedly and give you a hard time when trying to restart it. Other signs of an overheating system include:

• Short cycling

• Burning odors from the vents

• Odd noises from the furnace, such as banging and humming

An overheating furnace prevents your house from being heated adequately. The system could also suffer a premature breakdown and require expensive repair. If overheating damages the motor, you may have to replace your furnace. Overheating could also lead to heat exchanger damage, which could allow carbon monoxide to escape into your home's air.

Solutions

Changing a dirty filter and moving curtains and furniture away from your vents could solve overheating. Besides that, the best option would be to call in an HVAC specialist.

An overheating problem doesn't disappear by itself, so you should take action quickly. Remember, you can avoid having a too-hot furnace by ensuring your system is maintained properly. Contact us at Air Assurance if you need furnace repair or maintenance in the Broken Arrow area.

How Does a Furnace Flame Sensor Work?

Furnace flame sensors are a critical heating safety component. This device verifies that the main furnace-burner flame has ignited properly after the thermostat signals for heat. The electrical signal from the thermostat opens the gas valve and an electronic igniter lights the burner. If every step in this process functions correctly, then the furnace produces heat safely.

However, if something goes wrong and the burner fails to ignite, unburned natural gas could continue to flow, escaping into the house and posing a serious safety hazard due to potential fire or explosion. Read on to learn how flame sensors prevent that from happening to keep you safe.

Flame Sensor Basics

• The flame-sensing rod that reacts to heat extends into the furnace burner. The sensing rod is connected to the furnace's electronic control board.

• The control board receives a signal from the thermostat and opens the main gas valve, then actuates the electronic igniter that lights gas flowing into the burner.

• If the burner flame ignites, heat produced by the flame is detected by the sensing rod. The control board allows the gas valve to remain open, and heat is produced safely.

• If the sensor does not detect the burner flame, the furnace control board shuts off the gas valve immediately.

Potential Flame Sensor Issues

Sensor-detection function can be affected by a number of issues, most of which are related to the age of the component. A frequent telltale symptom of a failing sensor is that the furnace "short cycles." It starts up properly when signaled by the thermostat but then almost immediately shuts down again. The furnace will not continue running beyond a very short time.

Common causes of sensor failure include:

• Cracked, bent, or broken sensor rods

• A dislodged sensor rod

• Carbon residue on the sensor that is degrading heat-sensing capabilities

Annual furnace maintenance by a certified HVAC technician helps prevent sensor problems, as well as detect and diagnose a failing sensor.

For experienced service to diagnose and repair flame-sensor problems, contact the heating professionals at Air Assurance.

Is It Possible for a Furnace to Get Too Hot in Winter?

While a furnace that warms your home efficiently and safely is a real benefit during cold Oklahoma winters, an overly hot furnace might be malfunctioning and can present a hazard. Today’s gas-fired furnaces have an excellent safety record if the unit is professionally installed and receives annual preventive maintenance. Still, certain issues may arise over time, including overheating. If you ever suspect that you have a hot furnace at an unsafe level, always contact a qualified HVAC contractor immediately. 

Signs of an Overheated, Hot Furnace

• The smell of something burning coming out of HVAC vents inside the house. While a few minutes of acrid odor is to be expected when the furnace is first started up at the beginning of the heating season, this should dissipate rapidly. Any suspect odor that occurs later is a sign to shut off the furnace and call for professional help.

• The furnace shuts down quickly. If your furnace automatically turns itself off soon after cycling on—known as “short cycling”— it may be the safety sensor detecting excess heat somewhere in the unit. Alternatively, the sensor itself may be defective. If an automatic safety shutdown occurs, don’t keep restarting the furnace until it’s been inspected by a certified HVAC technician. Also: Many furnaces will not restart after a safety shutdown until a technician resets the sensor.

Causes of Your Furnace Overheating

• Insufficient system airflow. If the air circulating through the furnace is obstructed, internal furnace components of the furnace, such as the heat exchanger, do not receive sufficient cooling and may overheat. This can permanently damage critical components, as well as pose a fire hazard. Causes of restricted airflow include a clogged system air filter and obstructed supply or return vents.

• Failing components. A worn-out blower motor often overheats, causing pungent burning odors before it fails completely. Aging electrical wiring inside the furnace may also begin to disintegrate and melt when exposed to heat.

For qualified professional service to diagnose a hot furnace, contact the heating experts at Air Assurance.

Furnace Replacement In Your Future? Right Sizing Is Crucial

Furnace Installation & Replacement Tulsa

A furnace replacement may be one of the more challenging decisions you make as a homeowner, since these systems are complex and involve a number of factors. The right size is critical, not just for energy efficiency, but also for your comfort and the longevity of the system.Before homes were as air tight and energy efficient as they now are, larger equipment was needed to adequately compensate for lower insulation levels and more air infiltration. If you live in an older home and have made any improvements to either the insulation and plugged the air leaks, chances are you need a smaller system than you now have.HVAC contractors use a tool called Manual J to pinpoint the size that you need. This system was developed decades ago and it factors many aspects of your home, including:

• Cubic footage you need to heat;

• Layout of your home;

• Number of windows, their efficiency and exposure to the sun;

• Insulation levels in the attic and walls;

• Air infiltration rates;

• Heat-producing appliances under roof;

• Outdoor landscaping characteristics;

• Preferred indoor temperatures; and

• Age and number of household members.

Once the HVAC contractor finishes the analysis and knows the BTUs you need, he moves onto evaluating your current ductwork, using Manual D.Knowing the precise size you need not only saves you money initially for a furnace replacement, it also saves money over the life of the equipment. When furnaces are too large, they short cycle, which means they turn on and off more frequently. Short cycling increases your energy costs because the more the furnace runs, the more fuel it uses, and a portion of it goes up the flue, which is wasted. Running frequently also increases the wear and tear on all the components inside the system. Your comfort also suffers, since rooms may not thoroughly warm enough.If you'd like more information about furnace replacement, contact Air Assurance. We've provided HVAC services for the Broken Arrow area for more than 30 years.Our goal is to help educate our customers in the Tulsa and Broken Arrow, Oklahoma area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). Image courtesy of Shutterstock

What Does It Mean When the Furnace Pilot Light Is Out?

If your gas-fired furnace isn’t turning on and delivering heat, the reason could be a furnace pilot light out for some reason. While newer, gas-fired furnaces installed in homes light the main burner flame with an electronic igniter, many older furnaces still on the job utilize a pilot light. It’s simply a small, gas-fired flame that burns constantly and ignites the main furnace burner when the thermostat signals for heat. As a safety measure, a furnace pilot light out automatically shuts off gas flow to the main burner so the furnace will then not start up. 

Why Is the Furnace Pilot Light Out?

If the furnace isn't starting up as it should, it could result from two potential pilot light problems:

• Thermocouple malfunction. The pilot thermocouple is a safety device that continuously senses heat from the pilot flame. If the flame goes out for any reason, the thermocouple immediately shuts off gas flow to the pilot light and the main gas burner. Sometimes, however, an aging thermocouple will begin to malfunction, shutting off gas even though the pilot light is lit and functioning normally. A qualified HVAC technician can test the thermocouple and replace it with a new unit if necessary.

• Flame inefficiency. A normal pilot light flame should be bright blue. However, if the flame is yellow or orange, this is a sign that the gas is not burning efficiently and that the temperature of the flame is too low. Often, the thermocouple will sense the low-temperature flame and shut off the gas, including the pilot light. Flame-efficiency issues require diagnosis by an HVAC professional.

What to Do Now?

Most furnaces provide instructions to observe the pilot light and determine if it is lit. If it’s not lit, you can follow the basic procedure that's usually posted on the furnace to attempt to relight the pilot light. However, if the pilot will not relight — or if it goes out again soon after relighting it — discontinue further attempts and contact your HVAC contractor for a service call.

To resolve issues relating to a furnace pilot light out, contact the heating professionals at Air Assurance. 

Top Reasons For Furnace Clean & Check Service

Top Reasons for Furnace Maintenance

Top 5 Reasons to schedule your annual furnace service with Air Assurance and stay ahead of any seasonal breakdowns. Neglect is the number #1 reason why mechanical system fail.

Energy Savings - With the system clean, filter changed, gas pressures set correctly….it can mean the difference in your comfort and the performance on your utility savings during the fall and winter months.

Safe Operation - AC clean and check service is all about efficiencies. But the furnace check is all about safety. Safety from fire. Safety from Carbon Monoxide potentials and more.

Early Detection - You don’t wait until you have a flat tire on the highway to buy new tires right? When you notice the tread wearing and the tire becoming bald it affects performance. Stay ahead of any potential break downs this season.

Optimize Performance - Our technicians will use a combustion analyzer to determine how efficient you furnace is operating….and we can make adjustments to make sure you get the best performance.

Peace of Mind - We check over 25 items during our heating and furnace check to give you comfort and peace of mind.

Call Air Assurance to inquire or schedule your AC or Furnace clean and check maintenance service today!

Air Assurance Company

Serving Tulsa, Broken Arrow, Jenks, Sapulpa, Owasso, and more. Call Today!

Furnace Maintenance

The furnace burner is the heart of your central heating system. It’s the component that mixes air with natural gas and produces a clean-burning, high-temperature flame that generates heat for the whole house. A clean, intact furnace burner also ensures maximum fuel efficiency and low operating costs while minimizing the amount of combustion byproducts, including dangerous carbon monoxide. Here are some details about the process:

The Burner Cycle

In a typical gas-fired furnace, heating and burner operation are divided into several stages:

• Signaling for Heat. When the household temperature drops below the thermostat setting, the furnace receives a signal to initiate heating from the system thermostat.

• Fuel Delivery. The furnace fuel valve opens to start the flow of natural gas to the burner. At the same time, air from the furnace air intake blends with gas flow to provide the right mixture for clean, safe ignition and combustion.

• Ignition. The mixture of natural gas and air is ignited at the burner. Ignition may be provided by a pilot light — a small flame that runs continuously — or, more commonly in newer furnaces, by an electric igniter that produces a spark.

• Heat Transfer. Heat produced by the burner enclosed within the combustion chamber is added to the HVAC system's airflow by the heat exchanger. This vital component incorporates air passages to transfer heat efficiently to the airflow while sealing out dangerous gases.

• Heated Air Circulation. Heated air is pulled into the ductwork by the system blower and distributed throughout the house and into each individual room through supply air vents.

• Burner Shutdown. When household temperatures reach the desired setting, the thermostat sends a signal to shut off gas flow until temperatures drop again and the heating cycle repeats.

Furnace Burner Maintenance

Checking the burner is a critical part of annual furnace maintenance by a qualified HVAC contractor. The technician can verify proper burner operation by sampling and analyzing combustion gases. The burner in a gas furnace may require professional cleaning at intervals to support efficient and safe operation. 

For more about furnace burner operation and annual professional furnace maintenance, contact Air Assurance. 

What is a Typical New Furnace Price?

A new furnace price is one of the factors you'll want to consider when replacing your heating system. Several factors go into furnace pricing, so we'll help you out by breaking down the different aspects.

Overall New Furnace Price

The average new furnace price ranges from $2,000 to $8,000. On average across this country, a full installation costs $6,000. This includes the price of the new unit, labor fees, and other installation upgrades or costs.

Furnace Type

An individual gas furnace unit costs $650 to $3,000 on average. The total cost, including installation, averages $3,000 to $8,000. The average price of an electric furnace unit is $700 to $1,100. It's cheaper to install an electric furnace than it is a natural gas furnace, with total costs including installation averaging $2,000 to $4,000. However, electric furnaces usually have higher operational costs, as they create a higher electricity bill.

A propane furnace unit ranges from $800 to $2,000 on average. When installation costs are included, the total costs add up to between $2,500 and $5,000. The average price of an individual oil furnace is $500 to $2,500. The total costs range from $3,000 to $5,000 on average.

Efficiency

The Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) is the metric for measuring furnace efficiency. Furnaces with higher AFUE ratings usually cost more. However, by purchasing a high-efficiency furnace, you may qualify for a tax break or a rebate.

Previous Type of Furnace

Your previous furnace type also has an impact on price. If your previous furnace was an electric furnace, it could cost $200 to $500 to have gas lines installed if you're planning to purchase a gas furnace.

Labor

Labor costs typically range from $75 to $100 an hour. The company you choose and the job complexity also affect labor costs. For example, you may need additional ducts installed, which would increase the labor costs. You could also pay furnace inspection charges of $200 to $600 and an assistant hourly fee of $50.

As you can see, multiple factors affect a new furnace price, including the company you work with. Be sure to choose a trustworthy and experienced HVAC company. If you're in the Broken Arrow area, contact the heating professionals at Air Assurance. We've been handling furnace installations for 36 years.

What Is a Furnace Burner and How Does It Work in Your HVAC System?

The furnace burner is the heart of your central heating system. It’s the component that mixes air with natural gas and produces a clean-burning, high-temperature flame that generates heat for the whole house. A clean, intact furnace burner also ensures maximum fuel efficiency and low operating costs while minimizing the amount of combustion byproducts, including dangerous carbon monoxide. Here are some details about the process:

The Burner Cycle

In a typical gas-fired furnace, heating and burner operation are divided into several stages:

• Signaling for Heat. When the household temperature drops below the thermostat setting, the furnace receives a signal to initiate heating from the system thermostat.

• Fuel Delivery. The furnace fuel valve opens to start the flow of natural gas to the burner. At the same time, air from the furnace air intake blends with gas flow to provide the right mixture for clean, safe ignition and combustion.

• Ignition. The mixture of natural gas and air is ignited at the burner. Ignition may be provided by a pilot light — a small flame that runs continuously — or, more commonly in newer furnaces, by an electric igniter that produces a spark.

• Heat Transfer. Heat produced by the burner enclosed within the combustion chamber is added to the HVAC system's airflow by the heat exchanger. This vital component incorporates air passages to transfer heat efficiently to the airflow while sealing out dangerous gases.

• Heated Air Circulation. Heated air is pulled into the ductwork by the system blower and distributed throughout the house and into each individual room through supply air vents.

• Burner Shutdown. When household temperatures reach the desired setting, the thermostat sends a signal to shut off gas flow until temperatures drop again and the heating cycle repeats.

Furnace Burner Maintenance

Checking the burner is a critical part of annual furnace maintenance by a qualified HVAC contractor. The technician can verify proper burner operation by sampling and analyzing combustion gases. The burner in a gas furnace may require professional cleaning at intervals to support efficient and safe operation. 

For more about furnace burner operation and annual professional furnace maintenance, contact Air Assurance. 

How Can Cold Weather Affect Furnace Performance?

Many variables influence furnace performance during the winter, but none is more important than the simple fact that it’s cold outside. Outdoor conditions inevitably impact the indoor environment of a home, whether it’s a sweltering summer day or a freezing winter night.

The science of thermodynamics tells us that heat energy is always on the move from a hot zone into a colder zone. As outdoor temperatures plummet in the winter, heat generated by the furnace indoors is always trying to escape into the frigid outdoors. The potential effects on furnace performance may be hard to miss:

• Indoor comfort control is diminished.

• The furnace runs longer cycles to maintain the thermostat setting.

• Monthly heating costs rise accordingly.

• Wear and tear on heating components increases.

Here are some suggestions to get the upper hand on declining furnace performance during the winter:

• Eliminate air leaks that allow heat loss to the outdoors and degrade furnace performance. Seal structural cracks and gaps with caulking or expanding insulating foam in a can. Replace worn weatherstripping around doors and windows.

• Have a qualified HVAC contractor check the amount and quality of your attic insulation and verify that it meets current Department of Energy standards to prevent heat loss through the roof.

• Schedule annual professional preventative maintenance on the furnace. This includes a checklist of manufacturer-recommended procedures that support optimum furnace performance. Annual professional maintenance is also typically required by a furnace's warranty terms.

• Choose efficient, effective thermostat settings. A much higher thermostat setting in cold winter weather often means increased heat loss from the structure without a great benefit to indoor comfort. Strike a balance between a comfortable indoor environment and excessive heat loss by following Department of Energy temperature recommendations: When people are home, set the thermostat between 68 degrees and 72 degrees. At night or when the house is not occupied, lower the temperature range to 58 to 62 degrees.

For more advice about increasing furnace performance and cutting energy costs this winter, contact the heating professionals at Air Assurance.

Always Have This Handy Furnace Checklist at the Ready This Winter

Cooler temperatures will have you turning your furnace on soon enough. If your heating system hasn’t had HVAC maintenance done since last year, it’s important to make sure it’s working properly. Keep the following tasks on your furnace checklist so that your Broken Arrow home can remain well heated all fall and winter.

Check the Pilot

Furnace pilots sometimes stop working or don’t light properly due to debris or other problems. One of the items on your furnace checklist should be having an HVAC technician inspect and clean your gas furnace pilot.

Inspect the Heat Exchanger

The heat exchanger in a gas furnace can end up with cracks or other damage due to wear and tear. This, in turn, can lead to a higher risk of carbon monoxide leaks in your home. You should have HVAC technicians check the heat exchanger as part of your furnace checklist to make sure there are no cracks or other damage.

Clean the Burners

The burners in your furnace should also be inspected and cleaned as part of your furnace checklist to make sure they’re in good condition and working properly. HVAC technicians can handle this task safely.

Inspect Pulleys and Belts

Belts and pulleys are components in your furnace that can become loose or damaged over time. Your HVAC technician can inspect these parts of your furnace during a routine maintenance visit.

Adjust the Fan Switch

If needed, have HVAC technicians adjust the fan switch for your furnace. Doing so means your furnace won’t run too long or too often, which would result in higher heating bills.

Replace the Air Filter

You should put a new air filter in your HVAC system to help ensure that it runs efficiently. Keep in mind that you should do this every month or every few months. Clean air filters help improve your indoor air quality and ensure proper airflow.

If you need to schedule HVAC maintenance as part of your furnace checklist, please contact Air Assurance. Our HVAC team in Broken Arrow can provide you with prompt and dependable service to keep your furnace in good condition.

While You're Enjoying Your AC, Is it Too Early to Think About Your Furnace?

The climbing temperatures of the summer create the need to feel that cold blast of air from your cranked-up air conditioner. It might surprise you, but this is the time to also think about furnace maintenance. Keep reading to discover why it's essential to have some summer furnace thoughts, even though you won't have to keep warm for a few months.

Changing Your Air Filters

Your filter-replacement schedule runs throughout the year. You should typically replace your furnace filter every three to six months. The regularity depends on factors such as the filter's Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) and if you have indoor pets.

Did you know that the filter gets dirty even when you're not using the furnace? If the filter gets too dirty, it could cause your system to suffer long-term damage in addition to impairing its efficiency. A clean filter is necessary for maintaining energy efficiency.

The Pilot Light

If your furnace is 15 years old or older, it has a pilot light that stays lit 24/7. Considering how much the summer temperatures can take a toll on your energy bills, it makes sense to save a few dollars by switching off the pilot light. Doing this helps your air conditioner run efficiently. Don't forget to relight the pilot light when the next heating season arrives.

Your Furnace Gets Dirty

Your furnace, just like the filter, needs to be clean. After working hard to keep you comfortable during the winter, it's likely to have debris or dust on the exterior and interior components. If you don't clean the unit regularly, the debris may prevent it from running efficiently. It's always a good idea to contact a qualified contractor to carry out a safe cleaning process, especially when going from the winter to the summer.

Furnace Replacement

If you've been thinking of purchasing a new furnace, now is the perfect time. By not waiting until temperatures start dropping, you'll have ample time to do thorough research, consult professionals, and shop properly for the right replacement system.

Your summer furnace thoughts will go a long way toward preventing major problems when the cold weather returns. If you need help with furnace or AC maintenance, contact Air Assurance. Since 1985, we've been assisting Broken Arrow-area homeowners with their heating and cooling needs.