Top Tech HVAC: Service Call in Wexford, PA – Furnace Repair and Maintenance for a Large Home
At Top Tech HVAC, we’re dedicated to ensuring that your heating and cooling systems are running smoothly, efficiently, and safely. Recently, our team was called out for a service visit to a large home in Wexford, PA, where we discovered several issues with the HVAC system that required immediate attention. The home had three furnaces, each serving different parts of the house, and they were all in need of significant repairs and maintenance.
Neglected Air Filters: adds strain on your system
When we arrived at the home, one of the first things we noticed was that the air filters in all three furnaces had not been changed in years. Over time, air filters trap dust, dirt, and debris to prevent these contaminants from circulating through the system. When filters are neglected, they can become clogged, causing airflow restrictions, decreased efficiency, and even damage to the system.
In this case, the air filters were so dirty that they had completely blocked airflow, which could eventually lead to the furnaces overheating and possibly failing. It’s essential to replace air filters at least once per year, or ideally, every six months, to ensure that your heating and cooling systems function properly. Neglecting this simple maintenance task can have a big impact on the efficiency, safety, and lifespan of your equipment.
Furnace 1: A Faulty Control Board
The first furnace we examined had a major issue with its control board. The control board is the brain of the furnace, responsible for directing the various components (such as the blower, igniter, and gas valve) to work in harmony. Without a properly functioning control board, the furnace can fail to operate altogether or cycle incorrectly.
Our technicians identified that the control board was malfunctioning, which was preventing the furnace from running properly. We quickly replaced the control board with a new, compatible part and tested the system to ensure it was functioning as expected. With the control board repaired, the furnace was able to operate safely and efficiently again.
Furnace 2: coroded Exhaust Pipe – A Carbon Monoxide Hazard
The second furnace presented an even more serious problem—an eroded exhaust pipe. The exhaust pipe is responsible for venting dangerous gases like carbon monoxide (CO) outside the home. If the pipe is damaged or eroded, there’s a risk of carbon monoxide leaking into the home, which can be deadly.
Upon closer inspection, we found that the exhaust pipe was heavily corroded, and carbon monoxide was indeed leaking into the basement, which was a major safety concern. Carbon monoxide is colorless, odorless, and tasteless, which makes it difficult to detect without a CO detector, so we were glad the family hadn’t experienced any symptoms yet. However, it was clear that this issue needed to be addressed immediately.
We replaced the damaged exhaust pipe with a new, secure venting system and made sure the new pipe was properly sealed to prevent any further CO leaks. This repair helped restore the safety of the home, ensuring the family could continue living there without the risk of exposure to harmful gases.
Furnace 3: Condensate Leak and Rust Damage
The third furnace had a completely different issue—water damage. Upon inspection, we found acidic condensate from a 90+ efficient furnace was leaking from a deteriorated rubber drain hose behind the inducer motor . Water had been leaking inside the unit, causing significant rust to form on the metal components. Over time, the rust can weaken the furnace and cause long-term damage. We knew we needed to address the leak quickly before it caused further issues.
After removing some internal parts of the furnace, we traced the water leak to a split drain pipe. The pipe had split along each ring on the flex pipe, allowing water to leak into the furnace and cause the corrosion. To fix the problem, we replaced the damaged drain pipe with a new, secure part and cleaned up the mess caused by the leak.
With the leak repaired and the rust cleaned up, the furnace was able to operate properly again, without further risk of water damage or rust-related issues.
Completing the Job and Ensuring Homeowner Satisfaction
Once all the repairs were made, we performed a thorough cleaning of the HVAC system, including replacing all the air filters. Our technicians made sure that each furnace was running at peak performance before leaving the site, and we checked the air quality to ensure everything was safe. We also took the time to explain the necessary maintenance steps to the homeowners, including the importance of replacing air filters regularly to prevent future issues.
By the end of the service call, the homeowners were relieved to know that their HVAC system was functioning safely and efficiently again. We made sure to clean up any mess caused by the repairs, and we left the home with a fully operational heating system that would provide them with warmth and comfort throughout the colder months.
Why Choose Top Tech HVAC?
This service call in Wexford is a prime example of why regular maintenance and timely repairs are essential for the longevity and safety of your HVAC system. At Top Tech HVAC, we offer comprehensive HVAC services, including furnace repairs, maintenance, and installations. Our team of highly trained professionals is dedicated to keeping your home safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient.
If you’re in the Wexford area or anywhere else in Pittsburgh and need HVAC services, don’t hesitate to contact Top Tech HVAC. Whether you need urgent furnace repairs, regular maintenance, or an entirely new heating system, we’re here to help. We’re committed to providing fast, reliable, and affordable service to keep your home comfortable all year round.
Conclusion
In this service call in Wexford, PA, our team at Top Tech HVAC was able to address several critical issues in a large home’s HVAC system, from neglected air filters to dangerous carbon monoxide leaks and water damage. By completing the repairs in a timely and professional manner, we ensured that the family could continue to live in a safe, comfortable home. Don't let small issues turn into big problems—contact Top Tech HVAC for all your heating and cooling needs!
