The Inner Workings of a Furnace

In Kansas, a residential furnace offers essential warmth throughout the winter months. Yet, most folks scarcely give it a second thought until they return home to a dysfunctional furnace in the midst of cold weather. Among all household heating systems, furnaces are some of the most ancient. In the beginning, they were powered by both coal and wood. Modern types can operate with great degrees of efficiency and use electricity, gas, or propane.


Knowledge is always positive in the end. And in a perfect world, such knowledge may assist you in making wiser decisions concerning your home. Knowing how your furnace operates will help you effectively maintain it and address problems. Furnaces come in a variety of types, but they all essentially function in the same manner. Discover the many parts of the furnace, how they interact with each other, and helpful advice for managing your home furnace in the guide you're about to read.

The Basic Elements of a Home Furnace

Not every part of a furnace needs to be understood. That is what our installers and service specialists at H&H Plumbing Heating and Air are for. But knowing the main parts and how they work together might help one comprehend the system in its entirety.


  • Combustion chamber - It is the space that is open to air movement. One of the numerous regions that are cleaned during routine maintenance, this area needs to be kept tidy and unaffected.
  • Burners - Gas is burned in tubes called furnace burners. A flame sensor and a gas valve are installed on the burners to help regulate flames and switch the gas off when no flame is present.
  • Blower Motor - Warm air is dispersed throughout your home by the furnace's blower via the ductwork. It's significant that this blower fan also moves air for cooling. This is the main factor contributing to the need of having heating and cooling systems that are compatible with each other.
  • Thermostat - You can adjust the furnace's temperature with the use of this component. The flames expand when the thermostat is turned up, bringing the temperature up as well. The heat is reduced by turning it down, which gets the flames smaller.
  • Heat Exchanger - This is among the most important components of a house furnace. This is a group of heat-retaining metal tubes that are connected to the furnace's source of heat. When air is circulated through the heat exchanger and into your ducting, your home's air is warmed. 
  • Ductwork - This element aids in spreading the hot air around your house.
  • Air Filter - This part, which is close to the blower motor, cleans the air by removing contaminants and allergens. It safeguards the motor as well. To ensure high-quality air, replace the filter on a regular basis. Your filter is not only for the furnace but also for the air conditioner, but it is still a crucial component of both.
  • Heat Pump - This part is typically installed in hybrid heating systems. It improves home heating system efficiency and can cut heating costs by up to 30%. A heat pump circulates heat inside a house during the winter by condensing heat from the outside air.
  • Flue - A flue removes the hazardous waste left over from the combustion process and is also known as an exhaust stack.

Understanding the Heating Cycle

When the thermostat detects a variation between the temperature in your home and its settings, a heating cycle will start. The furnace will then receive a request for heat from the thermostat. A furnace operates on the concept of forced air heating, regardless of the fuel it utilizes. Heat is transferred from the furnace to air that blower fans then move through a home's ductwork and then out the home's vents. In order to save homeowners room for their cooling system, furnaces frequently share the ductwork with air conditioning systems.


The furnace has a vent that allows outside air to enter. To get rid of dust and debris, this air is first filtered. After that, it is kept in the plenum, a sealed area inside the furnace. The heated air is then blown into the burners after being filtered. The hot air is then pushed into the ductwork by the blower. Your home's ductwork is responsible for distributing the heat. Until additional heating is required, this process is repeated until the desired degree of heat is reached. The combustion process' byproducts, including toxic flames and carbon monoxide, are disposed of in the flue.


At the conclusion of the cycle, the thermostat will once more send a signal to your furnace's circuit board, starting a shutdown. In preparation for the next request for heat from the thermostat, the unit will then start cooling.

How to Care for a Home Furnace

For your furnace to efficiently transfer heat throughout your home, frequent maintenance is necessary. Here are some pointers for maintaining the furnace:


  • Filter cleaning and replacement - Your furnace's filter plays a critical role in the process of distributing warm air throughout your home's rooms. If a filthy air filter restricts circulation, the furnace won't operate as efficiently as it should.
  • Lower your household's heating load - Your home's structural covering might leak warm air and allow chilly winter air to sneak in through any weak points. Reduced heat load, or the amount of heat required to keep your home adequately warm, is achieved by sealing up the perimeter of your home. An HVAC contractor can perform a home energy audit to find your home's weak points and identify the main sources of heat loss there.
  • Ensure that all of your home's vents are clear - The air in your home must circulate thoroughly all across the heating system for it to function correctly. That implies that your furnace needs to be entirely functional. Additionally, it indicates that your vents are clean and functional. If a vent is obstructed or shut, the furnace may have to work harder and less effectively, which could lead to early damage.
  • Make sure the blower motor is operating properly - The blower motor contains a lot of moving parts, and if it isn't maintained properly, it might start to malfunction. An issue with the blower's electric motor or with the blower wheel can be indicated by a noisy furnace blower. An electrical issue is typically indicated by a loud humming. An experienced technician can assist you in locating the issue and implementing fixes before the machinery starts to degrade.


To keep your furnace in top functioning condition, only a little time or effort is required for maintenance. Many of the problems can be avoided by using some common sense and giving your home a little tender loving care each year. H&H Plumbing Heating & Air is available to assist you with any inquiries. Please contact us at (785) 263-1339.

Is Your Water Heater a Fire Hazard? Learn the Warning Signs

April 13, 2023
If you're worried that your water heater may be a fire risk, you should know that there are several risks associated with a broken one. Gas lines, exhaust flues and other components can lead to an increased risk of a hazardous fire. Sadly, the National Fire Protection Association reports that a gas water heater fire is reported every two hours in the United States. To protect yourself and your home, it's important to be aware of the warning signs that your water heater is a fire hazard. Common indicators include discolored or rusty pilot lights, strange noises or smells coming from the heater, and water which isn't getting hot. Regular maintenance and servicing is essential to make sure that everything is working properly. Additionally, making sure that any gas lines are secure and pipes are ventilated properly will also help to reduce the chances of a hazardous fire.

Solving the Water Damage Nightmare: Easy Solutions for a Pipe Leak

March 6, 2023
Are you dealing with destructive water damage caused by a pipe leak? Don't panic, because you can salvage your home and belongings before the damage worsens. Experts agree that quick action is key when it comes to water damage, so here are the steps to take in order to prevent more problems. Firstly, immediately shut off your water supply and unplug any appliances near the leak. Next, identify where the leak is coming from and try to contain it if possible. Once the source of the leak is found, you will want to act quickly to repair it. Depending on the severity of the damage, you may want to hire a professional to patch up the pipe and avoid any further complications. Lastly, you will want to dry the area and remove any excess water and moisture that can cause mold. In this blog post, you'll learn easy solutions for a pipe leak that will save you time, money, and countless headaches. The sooner you take action, the better chance you have of restoring your home to its original condition. Follow these steps and you can be sure you are doing all you can to prevent further property damage.

The Surefire Signs Your Plumbing Needs Replacing

February 11, 2023
When it comes to home improvements, plumbing can feel like an afterthought. After all, it doesn’t often bring to mind a visual image or come up in conversations the way painting or remodeling does. However, plumbing is an integral part of our homes and its condition can have a huge impact on our lives. That’s why it’s important to stay on top of any plumbing maintenance and, if need be, replace it when necessary. So, how can you tell when it’s time to upgrade your plumbing? In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the key indicators that it might be time to replace your plumbing infrastructure so you can help keep your home running optimally. Keeping an eye out for these crucial signs can help you avoid any potentially expensive and costly repairs down the line.

How to Inspect a Septic System Before Purchase

January 18, 2023
Are you in the process of buying a home where a septic system is used? Do you want to ensure the property and its septic system are in good condition? Inspecting a septic system prior to purchase can be an important way to identify any potential problems or maintenance needs. This guide will provide you with tips on how to inspect a septic system before purchase, as well as what to look for and other factors to consider. Read on to learn more about how you can protect yourself from costly repairs down the road.

The Advantages of Professional Septic Tank Installation: Don't Leave it to Chance

January 12, 2023
Septic tanks are essential for the proper drainage and management of wastewater from homes and businesses. These subterranean tanks are vitally important for ensuring liquid waste is disposed of correctly, but their installation and maintenance can be complicated and can require specific skills and knowledge. Because of this, the job should always be done by professionals who have experience and know-how to ensure it is done correctly. Here are some of the advantages of having septic tank installation done by professionals.

Expert Tips for Troubleshooting and Fixing Your Furnace

January 5, 2023
When it comes to furnace maintenance, knowledge is power. Knowing how to troubleshoot and fix common furnace issues can help extend the life of your HVAC system and keep your home comfortable all winter long. That's why we've put together this guide full of expert tips for troubleshooting and fixing your furnace. We'll cover everything from identifying furnace problems to resolving them quickly and efficiently. With the help of this guide, you'll be able to keep your furnace running like a champ for years to come! So let's get started.

Invest In Plumbing Maintenance Now and Save Money Later

December 30, 2022
When it comes to home maintenance and repairs, plumbing is often overlooked, but regular plumbing maintenance and check-ups can save you time and money in the long run. Whether it’s inspecting and testing your water pressure, cleaning out your pipes, or fixing a clogged drain, proper plumbing maintenance can help reduce the chances of costly repairs, water damage, and related health issues. Preventative plumbing maintenance will also ensure that your plumbing system is functioning properly and that your water is safe for drinking and bathing. In this blog, we’ll discuss the benefits of regular plumbing maintenance and how it can help safeguard your home and provide you with peace of mind.

The Dangers of Septic Tank Failure and the Warning Signs to Look Out For

December 20, 2022
If you’re a homeowner with a septic tank, it’s important to be aware of the warning signs of septic tank failure. A septic tank failure can not only put your and your family’s health at risk and cause a huge financial setback, but it can also create serious property damage. Aside from the health and financial consequences, a failing septic tank presents numerous environmental concerns. The contents of a failing septic system can leak into nearby soil, contaminate groundwater sources, and affect the local environment. With the increasing awareness of environmental contamination, the responsibility has shifted to individual homeowners to take care of their septic tanks. It's essential to understand the warning signs of potential septic failure and take steps to maintain it regularly. This blog post will look at the risks associated with a failing septic tank and the warning signs to look out for. Knowing when to be on the lookout for major septic problems and when a professional may be necessary can save homeowners time, money, and major headaches.

8 Reasons Your Furnace Is Not Working Properly

December 15, 2022
Are you dealing with a malfunctioning furnace in your home? If so, understanding the possible causes and solutions can help get it back up and running quickly. Read on to learn about 8 common reasons why your furnace may be failing. From clogged filters to faulty wiring, this guide will provide valuable insight into troubleshooting your heating system so that you can get it back to its optimal working condition. With some thorough investigation and the right help, your furnace will be heating up your home again in no time!

Top 8 Reasons Why You Should Call A Plumber Instead Of DIY

December 2, 2022
Plumbing problems can stop your home from functioning normally. What may be a small issue today, can turn into a big problem tomorrow. When you have a plumbing problem, you might be tempted to handle it yourself. But do you know what you're getting into? Plumbing can be dangerous - not just for you, but also for your home and your family. If you try to deal with those issues on your own and make a mistake, there's no guarantee that you'll be able to fix it with something from the hardware store; it might be more expensive than hiring professionals in the first place. And even if you do manage to fix it, there's still no guarantee that you won't run into problems down the road because of how you handled the problem originally. If you've ever been faced with a plumbing problem and don't have the time or energy to deal with it, there's no shame in hiring a professional plumber to handle it for you. There are plenty of reasons why hiring professionals is better than handling a plumbing problem on your own, and that’s what we’re going to talk about in this article!
More Posts