Troubleshooting common issues
If you are experiencing any issues with your Coleman furnace, there are a number of common problems that you can easily troubleshoot on your own before calling in a professional. Below are a few of the most common issues with their corresponding solutions:
The furnace isn’t heating:
If your Coleman furnace isn’t heating, there could be a number of potential issues causing the problem. First, check your thermostat to make sure that it is properly set to your desired temperature and that it is set to ‘heat’. If your thermostat isn’t the issue, there may be a problem with your air filters. Dirty air filters can restrict air flow and cause your furnace to malfunction. Make sure to regularly replace your air filters as needed to avoid this issue. If the air filters aren’t the issue, it may be a problem with your gas supply. Make sure that your gas valve is turned on and that there is enough gas in the supply line to the furnace.
The furnace is cycling on and off frequently:
If your Coleman furnace is cycling on and off frequently, it may be due to a dirty flame sensor. This issue occurs when the sensor gets dirty and isn’t able to detect the flame. Try cleaning the sensor with a soft cloth to see if that remedies the issue. If not, there may be a problem with the limit switch or thermostat. In this case, it’s best to call in a professional to take a look.
The furnace is making strange noises:
If your Coleman furnace is making strange noises, it could be due to a problem with the blower wheel or motor. Try turning off the power to the furnace and taking a closer look at the blower wheel to see if there’s any debris that needs to be cleaned out. If that doesn’t work, it may be necessary to replace the motor.
The furnace is blowing cold air:
If your Coleman furnace is blowing cold air instead of warm air, it could be due to a number of potential issues. First, check to make sure that your pilot light is on. If it isn’t, use your owner’s manual to relight the pilot. If the pilot light is on, there may be a problem with your thermocouple. This is a safety device that turns off the gas supply if the pilot light goes out. Try replacing the thermocouple to see if that fixes the issue. If not, there may be an issue with the gas valve or burner, in which case it’s best to call in a professional.
The furnace is leaking water:
If your Coleman furnace is leaking water, it’s important to address the problem as soon as possible to avoid damage to your home. This issue is typically due to a clogged condensate drain line. Try using a wet/dry vacuum to clear out the line and see if that fixes the issue. If the problem persists, there may be a problem with the condensate pump, in which case it’s best to call in a professional.
By troubleshooting these common issues with your Coleman furnace, you can save time and money on repairs. However, if you’re not comfortable making these repairs on your own or if the issue isn’t resolved after troubleshooting, it’s always best to call in a professional technician to take a closer look.
Replacing the air filter
One of the most common reasons for a malfunctioning furnace is a dirty air filter. The filter is responsible for trapping debris, dust, and other particles that could potentially damage the furnace. Therefore, a dirty air filter can impede the furnace’s performance by obstructing the airflow and leading to overheating, reduced efficiency, and even system shut down.
Replacing your Coleman furnace air filter is an easy task that you can do yourself with just a few tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Contents
Step 1: Turn off the Power
Before starting the replacement process, you must ensure that the furnace’s power source is off. Locate the “on/off” switch near the furnace or turn it off at the circuit breaker. This is essential to avoid electrocution and injuries while working on your furnace.
Step 2: Locate the Air Filter
The air filter’s location varies depending on your Coleman furnace model. However, it’s usually found in the unit’s blower compartment, behind the furnace’s front panel. To access the air filter, you will need to remove the panel. Refer to your furnace’s manual if you are unsure about the filter’s location.
Step 3: Remove the Old Air Filter
Once you have located the air filter, gently slide it out of its compartment. Be careful not to damage any of the furnace’s components. Check the filter’s condition to see if it has reached its maximum potential. If it’s dirty or damaged, replace it with a new one.
Step 4: Clean the Furnace’s Blower Compartment
While you’re there, use a clean, dry cloth to wipe down the blower compartment to remove any dust build-up. This will help to enhance the airflow and keep your furnace clean.
Step 5: Install the New Air Filter
Insert the new air filter by sliding it into the compartment. Ensure that the filter’s arrow aligns with the “air flow” direction marked on the housing. This will ensure that the filter works optimally.
Step 6: Turn on the Furnace’s Power
Once you’ve inserted the filter and ensured that it’s properly aligned, turn the furnace’s power back on. Allow the furnace to run for a few minutes before checking to see if it’s properly functioning.
If you require further assistance with your Coleman furnace, you can contact a professional HVAC contractor. They can help troubleshoot and fix any underlying issues that could be causing your furnace problems.
Cleaning the Flame Sensor
The flame sensor on a Coleman furnace is an important component that helps ensure that the unit runs efficiently and safely. Over time, the flame sensor can become dirty or corroded, causing it to malfunction and prevent the furnace from operating properly. To fix this issue, you can clean the flame sensor with a few simple steps.
Step 1: Turn off the power to the furnace
Before starting any work on the furnace, it’s essential to turn off the power completely. You can do so by locating the switch on the furnace or the electrical panel and turning it off. This is an important safety measure to prevent electric shocks or damage to the furnace.
Step 2: Locate the flame sensor
The flame sensor is typically located near the burner assembly, and it looks like a metallic rod or wire. To locate it, refer to your furnace manual or check online for diagrams or videos that show the position of the flame sensor on a Coleman furnace.
Step 3: Remove the flame sensor
Before cleaning the flame sensor, you need to remove it from the furnace. You can do so by unscrewing the set screw that holds it in place and sliding it out of its bracket. Be careful not to damage the sensor or the wires connected to it during this process.
Step 4: Clean the flame sensor
Once you’ve removed the flame sensor, you can start cleaning it. Use a soft-bristled brush or a piece of fine-grit sandpaper to gently scrub the corroded or dirty areas on the sensor. Be careful not to damage the ceramic insulator or any other part of the sensor. You can also use a specialized cleaner for flame sensors, which you can find at most hardware stores.
Step 5: Reinstall the flame sensor
After cleaning the flame sensor, you can reinstall it by sliding it back into its bracket and tightening the set screw gently. Make sure that the sensor is positioned correctly, and all the wires are reconnected to it. You can refer to the manual or take a picture of the sensor before removing it to ensure that you reinstall it correctly.
Step 6: Turn on the power to the furnace
Once you’ve completed the cleaning and reinstallation of the flame sensor, you can turn the power back on to the furnace and test it to see if it’s running correctly. You can also check that the flame sensor is working by observing the color and shape of the burner flame through the viewing window or inspecting the ignition system for any unusual sounds or odors.
Cleaning the flame sensor is a simple task that can help prolong the lifespan of your Coleman furnace and improve its performance. By keeping the sensor clean, you can prevent malfunctions and ensure that the unit operates safely and efficiently.
Checking and replacing the ignition control module
One common problem that can cause your Coleman furnace to malfunction is a faulty ignition control module. This small but important component is responsible for controlling the ignition process that starts the heating cycle in your furnace. Over time, it can wear out or become damaged, which can cause a variety of issues, from a furnace that won’t start to one that keeps shutting off before it reaches the desired temperature.
If you suspect that your ignition control module is at fault, there are a few steps you can take to diagnose the issue. Firstly, you can check if there is power coming to the module. Using a voltmeter, you can test if the module is receiving the correct voltage. If it is receiving less than the required voltage, then the module may not function properly and may need replacement.
It’s also a good idea to check the wiring that connects the module to the furnace. Make sure that all the wires are properly connected, and that there’s no damage to the wiring or connectors. If there is, you can either repair or replace the wiring, or you can call in a professional HVAC technician to do it for you.
If the wiring and power supply to the module are functioning properly, and you’re still experiencing issues with your furnace, it may be time to replace the ignition control module. Replacing this component is straightforward, but it does require some mechanical knowledge and ability to solder electrical components. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you replace the ignition control module of your Coleman furnace:
1. Turn off the power to the furnace.
2. Remove the furnace panel to access the module.
3. Identify the ignition control module. You can usually find it near the furnace burners, but refer to your furnace manual if you’re not sure.
4. Disconnect the module from the wiring, but take note of how it is connected. A good practice is to label the wires and mark their locations during the removal of the module.
5. Remove the old module from its location on the furnace.
6. Install the new ignition control module in the same location.
7. Connect the wires of the new module in the same manner as it was before removal. Remember to double-check the color coding and the labels you inputted in step 4 to ensure proper connection.
8. Reattach the furnace panel and test your work.
If you’re unsure of your ability to replace the ignition control module on your own, or if you’ve tried replacing it and are still experiencing issues with your furnace, it’s best to consult with a licensed HVAC technician who can help you diagnose and fix the problem.
Remember, proper maintenance and timely repairs are key to ensuring your Coleman furnace runs smoothly and efficiently, saving you money on energy costs and preventing costly breakdowns. Taking the time to learn about your furnace and how it works can help you identify and fix problems quickly and efficiently, so you can enjoy warm and comfortable indoor temperatures all winter long.
Calling a professional for more complex repairs
While you can address some furnace issues on your own, there are times when you need to call in a professional. Here are some of the scenarios where you should consider calling a heating technician:
1. Electrical problems. Furnaces are often powered by electricity, and issues with the electrical wiring or components can pose a serious danger. If you detect any burning smells, hear buzzing or popping noises, or notice that your circuit breaker frequently trips, call an electrician right away. They’ll be able to identify the problem and make any necessary repairs swiftly and safely.
2. Gas leaks. If you notice a smell of gas coming from your furnace, or if your carbon monoxide detector starts beeping, evacuate your property and call 911 immediately. Gas leaks can be extremely dangerous and even lethal. After the gas company has shut off the supply, you’ll need to contact an HVAC professional to diagnose and fix the problem.
3. Mechanical breakdowns. If your furnace is making grinding, scraping, or whining noises, it may be experiencing mechanical issues. The furnace’s motor or other moving parts may have worn down or become damaged, and attempting to repair or replace these parts yourself could lead to further problems. Calling a professional can get your furnace back up and running in no time.
4. Complex repairs. Some furnace problems require advanced knowledge and expertise to resolve. These could include issues with high-limit switches, pressure switches, flame sensors, or control boards. A qualified professional will know how to diagnose these issues and make the necessary repairs, potentially saving you money in the long term by preventing further damage.
5. Lack of experience. If you’re not comfortable working with electrical or gas systems, or if you lack experience working with heating systems, you’re better off leaving furnace repairs to the experts. Attempting to fix a furnace yourself can be dangerous and can cause more damage than good. Make sure to call a heating and cooling technician with the experience and qualifications to handle your furnace repair properly.
Remember, if you’re not sure whether you can safely repair your furnace yourself, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and call a professional. A trained technician will have the knowledge, tools, and experience needed to identify and repair problems with your furnace, ensuring that your family stays warm and safe during the colder months.