Nobody wants to find out that they’re in dire need of a furnace repair. However, that just may be the case if you’re dealing with a furnace that is leaking water. Of course, the exact fix you need will depend on the cause of the leak in the first place.
Here are some things you need to do if you have a leaky furnace that is steadily getting colder.
1 – Turn Off Your Furnace for Checking
The first thing you need to do is turn off your furnace. No matter what model you are dealing with, this is the first step to take before doing anything else. Turn off the thermostat and shut-off valve, and ensure it is not on in any gas line and electrical breaker.
This is the only way to safely check your furnace without risking your safety. If you’re sure that the furnace’s electrical circuit is off, you can start mopping up any water. Don’t turn it back on until you have a professional that can fix it to avoid any flooding.
2 – Take a Look at Your Humidifier
While humidifiers can be useful, they can also leak. If you have a built-in humidifier with your heating system, then you’ll want to check if it’s actually the source of the leak.
This can happen due to a range of issues, from clogged pads to broken components. The problem with this is that it can also be a conduit for mold and bacteria, so you should get it fixed right away.
3 – Examine Your Heat Exchanger
You may also have a leak because of a cracked heat exchanger. This is the major part of your furnace that transfers heat from one place to another and prevents any exhaust gasses from going into your ductwork.
If your heat exchanger model uses water to convert vapor, then it’s possible that a crack will cause a leak. This needs to be fixed right away to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
4 – Clean Out the Furnace Filter
It is also possible that the leak is caused by a dirty filter. If you’re having issues with your furnace not running properly, you may want to check your filter.
A clogged filter can capture a lot of moisture that may make it seem like you have some sort of leak. In reality, you are suffering from a build-up of dirt and debris that will restrict the airflow of your furnace.
5 – Inspect the Exhaust Pipe
This problem is usually only present in conventional furnaces. Check your metal exhaust vent pipe to see if it’s trapping air and causing condensation. The issue can end up with liquid leaking out of your furnace.
6 – Check for a Problem with Your Condensate Lines
If you have a high-efficiency furnace, you might have a leak or clog within your condensate lines. When there is a blockage or leak, the line won’t be able to properly drain condensation away from the furnace.
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing any of these issues, it is time to get a furnace repair before you experience health issues and increased bills. It’s best to have a professional check for these problems to ensure that no one is harmed and the furnace is thoroughly checked.
Lobo Tech prides itself in its excellent and affordable HVAC services backed by 30 years of experience. Schedule our service if you need a furnace repair in Santa Fe, NM.