Quick Takeaways
- Florida’s mild climate means furnaces often sit unused for months.
- Long idle periods lead to dust buildup, corrosion, and electrical issues.
- Common failures include ignition problems, blower motor issues, and clogged filters.
- Annual tune-ups prevent breakdowns and keep furnaces ready for cold snaps.
- Professional maintenance extends furnace lifespan and saves on costly repairs.
Why Florida Homes Don’t Use Furnaces Year-Round
The simplest answer is that the weather is too hot throughout the year to run a furnace. Even at night, the air is too warm and humid to justify artificial heat. Therefore, it’s likely that most homeowners will only activate their furnace for a month or two at most during the year.
What Happens When a Furnace Sits Idle Too Long
When a furnace sits idle for too long, it can be vulnerable to dust and other particle accumulation, which can clog fans, blowers and other components. It may also incur corrosion and electrical damage as moisture can get into circuits or weaken connections.
You may also notice dry seals or bearings caused by a lack of lubrication after the furnace sits unused for several months. Finally, pests such as rodents or insects may eat away at internal components or make nests inside of your furnace.
Common Furnace Problems After Long Idle Periods
A failure to ignite or to run consistently is the top issue related to an idling furnace. However, you may also be at risk of gas leaks or other hazards caused by improper combustion or furnace damage.
Strange odors, excessive noise and clogged air filters might also be side effects of not using your furnace for long periods of time.
Signs Your Furnace May Struggle After Sitting Idle
It’s possible that the thermostat will struggle to operate or give you an accurate reading after months sitting idle. You may also notice that there are hot and cold spots in your home possibly caused by a clogged air filter or issues with your home’s ductwork.
Strange noises or smells from the furnace may also indicate issues that could cause it to struggle to work properly. Finally, you might notice that the furnace fails to ignite or takes some time to do so after it’s first turned on.
How to Prevent Furnace Failure in Florida Homes
One of the easiest ways to prevent furnace failures is to have them inspected after the cold season is over. Alternatively, you can have a tune-up done prior to turning it on for the first time. It can also be a good idea to run the unit every few weeks to keep parts lubricated.
You should also be sure to have filters changed regularly even when the furnace isn’t in use. This can prevent too much dust or pollen from causing a clog or other issues related to restricted airflow.
Running a dehumidifier can reduce the risk of moisture damage as it is designed to keep basements or other rooms dry. Reducing the moisture level in a given space may also reduce the risk of a pest infestation. In addition, keep the unit clean to ensure that pests don’t see it as a wet and warm place to hide.
Why Professional Maintenance Is Essential in Florida
Having a professional inspect your unit regularly makes it easier to spot small problems before they spiral out of control. This can reduce the time and cost associated with furnace maintenance as well as reduce overall wear on the heating system.
A professional will check all parts for wear and damage and will have the experience needed to clean or fix the unit as necessary. Cleaning burners can reduce carbon buildup and reduce corrosion of key parts. Regular cleanings also reduce particle buildup and the problems associated with it.
Finally, a technician can look for signs of gas leaks or other safety hazards posed by your furnace. If any are found, they will be fixed promptly and correctly to ensure the safety of your home and everyone who lives in it.
FAQs About Furnaces in Florida Homes
How long can a furnace sit unused before problems start?
It’s generally not a good idea to go more than a month without inspecting your furnace. Otherwise, you could be at risk of dust buildup, corrosion or loss of lubrication.
Do Florida homeowners really need annual furnace maintenance?
An annual inspection helps to ensure that your heating system works properly and safely after long periods of inactivity. It may also ensure that you don’t void your warranty, which means that any problems that are found during an inspection may be covered by the manufacturer.
Why does my furnace smell when I turn it on after months?
It’s possible that dust or other debris are being burned away when you start the furnace. There is also a chance that dry parts are rubbing together or that there is a gas leak. In either scenario, you should seek assistance immediately.
Can humidity damage my furnace while it’s idle?
Yes, humidity can cause problems for circuits or other parts while your furnace is inactive. Ideally, you’ll run the furnace once a month and have it inspected to minimize the risk of moisture damage.
How can I prepare my furnace for its first use each winter?
You can prepare your furnace for winter by having it cleaned and inspected prior to its first use. Changing the air filter and running the unit once a month can also keep your furnace in good condition throughout the year.
Feel the Warmth This Winter Season by Giving Us a Call
Furnaces generally fail in Florida because of dust, humidity and lack of use throughout the year. However, the folks at One Hour in Jacksonville can engage in preventive and other types of maintenance to ensure that your home stays warm all winter long. Remember, if we aren’t on time, you don’t have to pay a dime.