When winter settles over Salem, IL, your furnace becomes one of the most important systems in your home. Cold temperatures, icy winds, and fluctuating weather patterns mean your heating equipment must work harder than it does at any other time of year. Unfortunately, this extra strain often exposes hidden problems or creates new ones. Understanding what can go wrong helps you stay ahead of costly repairs and uncomfortable nights.
Dirty or Clogged Filters
One of the most frequent winter furnace issues stems from something simple: the air filter. When it becomes packed with dust, pet hair, or debris, airflow slows down. Restricted airflow forces your furnace to run longer to reach the temperature you set, which can cause overheating, higher energy bills, and premature wear. In many Salem households, regular filter changes are overlooked during busy winter months, making this a common cause of furnace inefficiency. Checking and replacing the filter every 30–60 days ensures warm air can circulate freely.
Ignition Problems
Older furnaces or systems with worn ignition components may struggle to start once temperatures drop. Whether your unit uses a pilot light or an electronic ignition, these parts can fail or become unreliable with age. Salem homeowners may notice the furnace clicking repeatedly or attempting to start with no success. If the furnace cannot ignite consistently, it may short cycle or fail to heat the home at all. A professional inspection can pinpoint whether a faulty igniter, dirty burner, or failing pilot assembly is to blame.
Thermostat Malfunctions
You might not immediately suspect the thermostat when your home feels colder than it should, but this small device plays a major role in winter comfort. A thermostat that is out of calibration, placed near a draft, or experiencing electrical issues can signal your furnace incorrectly. This can lead to short cycling, uneven heating, or long periods where the furnace does not turn on at all. Replacing old batteries, relocating poorly placed thermostats, or upgrading to a programmable unit can improve performance.
Frozen or Blocked Exhaust Pipes
Salem’s freezing temperatures can cause condensation in the exhaust pipes of high-efficiency furnaces. If that moisture turns to ice, the furnace may shut down as a safety precaution. Snow, wind-blown leaves, or animals can also block exterior vents. When exhaust cannot escape properly, the system senses the danger and stops operating to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Keeping the area around your furnace vent clear—and checking it after heavy snow or storms—helps prevent this dangerous interruption.
Blower Motor Wear and Tear
The blower motor works overtime during the coldest months. When it begins to fail, homeowners may hear unusual sounds, feel weak airflow, or notice that some rooms stay colder than others. Salem, IL winters put extra demand on this part, and older motors often struggle to keep up. Lubrication problems, worn belts, and electrical issues can all cause poor blower performance. Addressing these symptoms early helps avoid complete furnace failure.
Heat Exchanger Issues
The heat exchanger undergoes significant temperature changes during winter operation. Over time, this can cause cracks. When a heat exchanger is damaged, the furnace cannot operate safely because it may allow carbon monoxide to escape into the home. Symptoms can include soot around the furnace, strange odors, or frequent shutdowns. If you suspect a cracked heat exchanger, it is important to shut the system off and call a technician immediately.
Lack of Routine Maintenance
Many winter furnace issues in Salem originate from skipped or delayed maintenance. A tune-up before cold weather hits allows a technician to catch worn parts, clogged components, and safety concerns before they escalate. Without routine service, small issues grow into major repairs and your furnace becomes more vulnerable during winter’s most extreme temperatures.
Call Mideastern Plumbing & Heating if your furnace Is having Issues this winter in Salem, IL.