Freezing temperatures can cause condensate or exhaust pipes to freeze, disrupting your furnace’s operation. Your furnace could also freeze due to accumulated debris or sludge in the condensate pipe. If you have a frozen heating unit, hire a professional technician for furnace repair. Here are the steps a technician can take to thaw and repair a frozen furnace:
Assessment
The technician begins with a visual inspection of the furnace and surrounding components. They look for signs of frost or ice accumulation on pipes, valves, and the furnace itself. The technician checks for any blockages in the air intake or exhaust vents restricting airflow and contributing to freezing. Using a temperature gauge or infrared thermometer, the technician measures the temperature of various furnace components. This helps identify specific areas that have dropped below freezing and need attention. The technician also inspects for water pooling near the furnace or pipes, which can cause freezing.
Isolation and Furnace Shut-Off
Before thawing and completing furnace repair, the technician locates the shut-off valves for gas and electrical connections to establish a safe working environment. Depending on the electrical setup, the professional can shut off the electrical breaker dedicated to the furnace or unplug the unit. A gas detector helps confirm that the gas and electrical supplies are completely shut off. If the furnace has a pilot light, the technician extinguishes it immediately. For electronic ignition systems, they turn off the burner control switch. They can also release residual pressure in the heating system if the furnace has been operating recently.
Thawing and Inspection
The technician selects the appropriate thawing equipment based on the severity of the freezing and the type of components involved. Electric blankets designed for pipe thawing are convenient for wrapping around frozen pipes. Heat guns with adjustable temperature settings are versatile tools for thawing frozen furnace components like the ignition system, control boards, and condensate lines. Technicians use absorbent materials to shield electrical components from water damage during thawing. After thawing the furnace, technicians inspect for signs of damage, such as cracks, fissures, or weakened areas. To determine the system’s integrity, the technician may perform pressure testing. This involves pressurizing the unit with air and checking for any pressure drops, which could indicate leaks.
Repair and Replacement
If there’s any damage, the technician proceeds with repairs or replacement to boost the furnace’s performance. For small leaks in pipes or connections, the technician may use epoxy for patching or sealing. If the damage to pipes is extensive, or if repairs are not feasible, the technician may replace sections of the pipes. For damaged electrical components such as wiring, switches, or control boards, the technician will perform repairs like rewiring, soldering, or replacing damaged parts. Severe damage to the heat exchanger often requires complete replacement due to safety concerns.
Testing
After completing the furnace repairs, the technician can verify that the gas valves are functioning correctly and there are no obstructions or leaks in the fuel line. For furnaces with pilot lights, the expert must determine that the flame is stable and the ignition system is responsive. If the furnace has an ignition system, a technician tests sensors, igniters, and control boards for proper operation. They can perform airflow testing by checking air filters, blower components, and ductwork for blockages.
Book an Appointment for Quality Furnace Repair
If you have a frozen furnace, book an appointment for professional thawing and repair. An experienced furnace technician can check the frozen parts, thaw them, and repair or replace damaged components. These experts use industry-approved materials for repair or replacement to comply with safety codes and building standards. They can also document the nature of your furnace’s damage, repairs, and testing results to provide you with a comprehensive report. Contact a furnace repair provider today to schedule an assessment of your frozen furnace.
