You are viewing the Perry & Warner Robins, GA location.
Safety is a top priority when it comes to your home’s heating system. The good news is that modern gas furnaces are designed with advanced safety mechanisms to protect you and your family while ensuring reliable operation. Let’s break down the key safety features that allow your gas furnace to run securely. At times, you may need to call our technicians for heating repair in Warner Robins, GA in order to repair one of these mechanisms or if the mechanism has activated too often, indicate a more serious problem with the furnace.
Flame Sensor
The flame sensor is a critical safety device that ensures your gas furnace operates without releasing unburned gas into your home. When the furnace ignites, the flame sensor verifies that the flame is steady. If the sensor does not detect a flame, it sends a signal to the control board to shut off the gas supply, preventing a potential gas leak.
Older systems used a thermocouple, which served a similar purpose. However, modern flame sensors are more reliable and require less energy to function. Regular maintenance is essential to keep the sensor clean and functioning properly. Dust or corrosion on the sensor can cause false readings, which may shut down your furnace unnecessarily.
Flame Roll-Out Switch
The flame roll-out switch acts as a safeguard against flames escaping the combustion chamber. If the burners create flames that “roll out” instead of being contained inside the heat exchanger, this switch shuts down the furnace to prevent fire hazards.
Flame roll-out can occur if the heat exchanger is damaged or if there’s an obstruction in the venting system, causing improper airflow. This safety feature ensures that your furnace stops operating in unsafe conditions, protecting your home from potential fire risks.
Limit Switch
The limit switch is a built-in thermostat that monitors the temperature inside the furnace. Its primary function is to prevent overheating by shutting off the burners when the furnace reaches a high- temperature threshold.
Overheating can occur due to airflow issues, such as a clogged air filter or a malfunctioning blower fan. Without a properly functioning limit switch, your furnace could overheat, leading to damage or fire hazards.
This safety feature also turns off the blower once the heat exchanger cools down after the heating cycle ends. Regular inspections help ensure that the limit switch is operating correctly and responding to temperature changes as it should.
Draft Pressure Switch
The draft pressure switch ensures that your furnace’s venting system is clear and functioning properly. It detects whether the inducer fan is creating enough airflow to safely expel combustion gases, such as carbon monoxide, through the vent.
If the pressure switch senses insufficient airflow, it shuts down the furnace to prevent harmful gases from building up inside your home. This safeguard protects you from exposure to toxic fumes caused by blocked vents, broken fans, or other mechanical issues.
You’ll Still Need CO Detectors in Your House
While gas furnaces are equipped with these advanced safety mechanisms, no system is completely foolproof. Carbon monoxide can be deadly if it accumulates in your home. To ensure your family’s safety, it’s crucial to have functioning CO detectors installed throughout your home, particularly near bedrooms and common living areas.
With the right safety features and regular care, your gas furnace can provide reliable and secure heating for years to come. If you have any questions or concerns about your furnace, our team is here to help!