Gas Furnace Equipment Components and How They are Utilized
- By 7064132288
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- 26 Nov, 2019
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There are many different parts that keep your furnace operating smoothly and efficiently. Below we will be breaking down the individual parts of your furnace system. We are going to be focusing on gas powered furnace components and non-geothermal heating methods. We are not going to be focusing as much on furnaces such as space heaters, but a lot of the space heaters have the same parts. We want to focus today on furnaces that are directly tied into a HVAC system. The furnace components we will be discussing will most likely belong to your standard furnace that is tied into a duct system.

Heat Exchanger
When gas burns it gives off a very toxic chemical called carbon monoxide. When breathed in it it can be very detrimental to the health of the residents in the domicile. A heat exchanger will help prevent the toxic gas from mixing with fresh air. A heat exchanger is a relatively simple piece of equipment considering its job is so important. A heat exchanger has long metal tubes that have been bent into an S shape. Gas flames burn inside the tubes and expel the toxic gasses through the roof. The blower motor forces air on the outside of the tubes heating the air as it does. This also keeps toxic flame exhaust from mixing with the clean air. This component should be regularly checked for cracks due to its very important job. Carbon Monoxide detectors in your home are also very important. Checking your Carbon Monoxide detectors and your furnace regularly can ensure the safety of you and your family. For a better understanding we’ve listed the systematic process of a heat exchanger in a heating cycle below;
Burners trigger combustion gases and send them through the first opening in the heat exchanger.
At the same time as step one the blower releases cool air over the exterior of the heat exchanger.
It uses heated combustion gases to warm the air, which is then distributed throughout the home.
Toxic Exhaust is released through the roof exhaust or FLUE pipe.

Igniter and Pilot Lights

Burners
A burner is where gas and air are combined creating a flame that becomes the heat source.

Gas Valve

Thermocouple
A Thermocouple is used in relation to the pilot light to detect whether or not the pilot light is lit. It uses two small metal wires that rest inside a tube that when heated conduct electricity. After being heated they send a 24 volt signal to the gas valve allowing gas flow. If the thermocouple is bad or does not sense heat from the pilot light it will not allow gas into the system.

Flame Sensor

Draft Inducer Motor
Since when gas is burned it produces toxic fumes, it is necessary to have proper ventilation. This perhaps is one of the most important things that needs to happen in your furnace to ensure consumer safety. A draft inducer motor is triggered before the gas is. This in turn creates a vacuum inside the furnace system safely expelling combustion exhaust through the vent pipe.

Pressure Switch
The pressure switch’s job is to make sure the draft inducer motor has been turned on and is expelling gas properly through the vent. Inside is a small diaphragm that allows the switch to detect the vacuum that is pulled by the inducer motor. If a vacuum occurs then the diaphragm pulls in which activates a switch allowing gas flow. If a vacuum is not sensed then no gas will be allowed into the system.

Blower Motor

Blower Motor Capacitor

Furnace Limit Switch

Return Air Filter
The return air filter being dirty is one of the number one causes of dirt and debris entering your unit. To avoid this change out your filter every 30-60 days. This will prevent those debris from entering your system and keep your unit running for longer.

With all of your furnace needs this winter season allow us here at A-Plus Comfort LLC help you. We have over 5 years of experience in the HVAC trade in Huntsville, Alabama and the surrounding areas. We are more than happy to assist your in your HVAC needs or questions. Give us a call today at (256) 585-2550. Thank you!



Furnaces typically have a life expectancy of 15-20 years on average. Heat pumps last 16 years on average. Air conditioning units generally last 16-20 years. Tankless water heaters have a life expectancy of 20 years while a gas or electric water heater have a life expectancy that’s half that. Even though the older units were significantly less energy efficient, they malfunctioned a lot less. In the older units there were much less parts that could malfunction and the system while low in efficiency was very straightforward. Due to the lack of moving parts the older systems could take a lot more abuse from the elements and much less maintenance. They were less susceptible to dirty filters, plant overgrowth on the outside of the condenser, dirty blower wheels, dirty coils, and oversized ductwork. The newer systems save you much more money relative to the old ones. The new units require more maintenance but have the potential to last just as long as the old units while simultaneously saving you way more money on energy efficiency.


Convenience is the first reason we are going to discuss why a programmable thermostat is right for you the consumer. If you like your home at a certain temperature, a programmable thermostat can ensure that it stays in the temperature range you set for it. Not only that, you can program the thermostat to make your house reach a certain temperature before you arrive home in the afternoon and before you get up in the morning.
These settings are what differentiates between a normal and programmable thermostat. Because of these settings your thermostat will help you save lots of money by not running while you are away. It has been reported that the average consumer can save about 10-30% on their heating and cooling costs alone. Maximum energy saving settings are pre-programmed for your convenience. A programmable thermostat has precise temperature control with only one degree variations. Most programmable thermostats also tell you when it's time to change out the filter in your unit as well.
A programmable thermostat is compatible with almost all systems and is super easy to install. There are many programmable thermostats to choose from according to your lifestyle. For every consumer a programmable thermostat is a cost effective and smart option. If you have kids for example and the kids get home earlier than you, sure you could trust them with your thermostat, but with a programmable one you wouldn’t have to worry about that at all. Your home will be the exact temperature that you want it at when you arrive or leave your home. With the hustle and bustle of busy life who wants to worry about the thermostat. Go out and get a programmable thermostat today or call us.

A zone control system splits your home into multiple zones. By doing this a zone system is increasing the efficiency of your system. Also each zone can be heated or cooled independently of the other zones. For example you may like your bedroom much cooler than your living room. A zoned system can ensure that is achieved.

A-Plus Comfort LLC, is a veteran owned and operated HVAC business. Collectively our technicians and staff have over 20 years of experience, and understand that you the consumer deserve the best quality service provided. Here at A-Plus Comfort LLC, our mission statement is ensuring customer satisfaction and comfort.