Where To Get Best Furnace Repair In Bend

The middle of winter in Bend, Oregon, is *not* the time you want your furnace to fail. A sudden loss of heat can be not just uncomfortable, but potentially dangerous. Before panicking and calling for emergency furnace repair, take a deep breath. This guide will walk you through some basic troubleshooting steps you can safely perform, and help you determine when it’s absolutely necessary to call in a professional. We'll also offer advice on finding the best furnace repair in Bend when DIY isn't an option.

Common Furnace Failures: A Silent Shutdown

One of the most common furnace failures is a complete shutdown. One minute, everything is working fine; the next, cold air is blowing (or nothing at all). This can be caused by a variety of issues, ranging from simple problems you can fix yourself to more complex issues requiring expert attention.

Troubleshooting Your Furnace: A Step-by-Step Guide

Before you begin any troubleshooting, always turn off the furnace at the breaker box. This is a critical safety precaution. Wait a few minutes before proceeding to allow any residual electricity to dissipate.

Step 1: Check the Power Supply

This may seem obvious, but it's often the simplest things that are overlooked.

Breaker Box: Go to your breaker box and ensure the breaker for the furnace is in the "on" position. If it’s tripped (in the "off" or middle position), flip it completely to the "off" position and then back "on". Give it a moment, and then check to see if the furnace is running.
Power Switch: Many furnaces have a dedicated power switch located near the unit itself. Make sure this switch is also in the "on" position. It can easily be bumped or accidentally switched off.
Extension Cords: Is the furnace plugged into an extension cord? This is generally not recommended. Furnaces draw a significant amount of power, and extension cords can be a fire hazard. If one is being used, try plugging the furnace directly into a wall outlet.

Step 2: Inspect the Thermostat

Your thermostat is the brain of your heating system. If it’s not functioning correctly, your furnace won’t either.

Batteries: If your thermostat is battery-powered, replace the batteries. Even if the display is still lit, low batteries can cause malfunctions.
Settings: Ensure the thermostat is set to "heat" and that the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature. It seems obvious, but it's a common mistake.
Fan Setting: Check that the fan setting is on "auto" rather than "on." If it's set to "on," the fan will run continuously, even if the furnace isn't heating. While not a failure, it can be wasteful.
Wiring: (Caution: Handle with extreme care!) If you're comfortable and know how to safely work with low-voltage wiring, carefully remove the thermostat from the wall plate. Check the wiring connections to ensure they are secure and not corroded. If you see any loose wires, gently reattach them. If you are not comfortable with wiring, skip this step and call a professional.

Step 3: Examine the Air Filter

A clogged air filter is a very common cause of furnace problems. It restricts airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and shut down.

Location: Locate your air filter. It's usually found in a slot near the blower motor.
Inspection: Remove the filter and hold it up to the light. If you can barely see through it, it's definitely time for a replacement.
Replacement: Replace the filter with a new one of the correct size and type. This is a simple and inexpensive task that can significantly improve your furnace's performance. Aim to change the air filter every 1-3 months, depending on usage and air quality.

Step 4: Check the Pilot Light (For Older Furnaces)

If you have an older furnace with a pilot light, it may have gone out. Follow these steps carefully and only if you are comfortable working with gas. If you smell a strong odor of gas, evacuate your home immediately and call the gas company!

Locate the Pilot Light: Find the pilot light assembly. It's usually located near the burner.
Follow Lighting Instructions: Most furnaces have instructions for relighting the pilot light printed directly on the unit. Follow these instructions precisely.
Safety First: Be extremely cautious when working with gas. If you are at all unsure, call a qualified technician.
If the pilot light repeatedly goes out: This could indicate a problem with the gas valve or thermocouple. This is a job for a professional.

Step 5: Inspect the Blower Motor

The blower motor circulates air through your home. If it’s not working, your furnace won’t be able to distribute heat.

Listen for Unusual Noises: Turn the furnace back on (after ensuring the breaker is on). Listen carefully for any unusual noises coming from the blower motor. Grinding, squealing, or rattling sounds could indicate a problem.
Check the Blower Wheel: (Turn the power off at the breaker before attempting this!) Access the blower motor compartment (refer to your furnace's manual). Carefully inspect the blower wheel for any obstructions or debris. Remove any blockages.
Lubrication: Some blower motors have lubrication ports. If yours does, apply a few drops of light machine oil to these ports. Do not over-lubricate.
Testing with a Multimeter: (Only for experienced DIYers with electrical knowledge!) If you are comfortable and knowledgeable about using a multimeter, you can test the blower motor's capacitor. A faulty capacitor is a common cause of blower motor failure. If you are not familiar with multimeters and electrical testing, do not attempt this.

When to Call a Professional in Bend

While these troubleshooting steps can resolve many common furnace issues, there are times when calling a professional is absolutely necessary. Never attempt repairs involving gas lines, complex electrical components, or parts you are not familiar with.

Here are some situations that warrant a call to a qualified furnace technician:

You smell gas: Evacuate your home immediately and call the gas company and a qualified technician.
The furnace is making loud or unusual noises: This could indicate a serious mechanical problem.
The furnace is repeatedly shutting down: This suggests an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.
You are not comfortable working with gas or electricity: Safety should always be your top priority.
You have tried the troubleshooting steps above and the furnace is still not working: It's time to call in the experts.

Finding the Best Furnace Repair in Bend: A Local's Guide

Bend has several reputable furnace repair companies. Here's how to find the best one for your needs:

Ask for Recommendations: Talk to your neighbors, friends, and family for recommendations. Personal referrals are often the most reliable.
Read Online Reviews: Check online review sites like Google Reviews, Yelp, and Angie's List. Pay attention to the overall rating, the number of reviews, and the content of the reviews. Look for consistent themes of excellent service and professionalism.
Verify Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the company is properly licensed and insured to operate in Oregon. This protects you in case of accidents or damage. You can typically verify licensing through the Oregon Construction Contractors Board (CCB).
Check for Certifications: Look for companies that employ technicians certified by organizations like NATE (North American Technician Excellence). NATE certification indicates that technicians have passed rigorous exams and possess the knowledge and skills to perform high-quality repairs.
Get Multiple Quotes: Contact several companies and request quotes for the repair. Be sure to provide them with as much information as possible about the problem you are experiencing. Don't automatically choose the lowest quote. Consider the company's reputation, experience, and warranty options as well.
Inquire About Emergency Services: If your furnace fails in the middle of the night or on a weekend, you'll need a company that offers emergency services. Ask about their availability and response time.
Warranty and Guarantees: Ask about the company's warranty policy on parts and labor. A reputable company will stand behind its work and offer a guarantee of satisfaction.
Transparency: Choose a company that is transparent about its pricing and repair process. They should be willing to explain the problem clearly and provide a detailed breakdown of the costs involved.
Consider Local, Established Businesses: In Bend, long-standing businesses often have a strong reputation to uphold and are invested in the community.

Specific companies are not mentioned here, as providing recommendations would require constant updating and could be biased. However, the advice above will help you find a qualified and reliable furnace repair service in Bend that meets your specific needs.

Preventative Maintenance: Avoiding Future Furnace Failures

The best way to avoid furnace problems is to schedule regular preventative maintenance. An annual tune-up can help identify potential issues before they become major problems, saving you time, money, and headaches in the long run.

A typical furnace tune-up includes:

Inspection of all components, including the burner, heat exchanger, blower motor, and electrical connections.
Cleaning of the burner and heat exchanger.
Testing of the carbon monoxide levels.
Lubrication of moving parts.
Adjustment of the gas pressure.
Replacement of the air filter.

By following these steps and being proactive about furnace maintenance, you can keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long. Stay safe and warm, Bend!