Problems With the Furnace Transformer: What You Should Know

Your home furnace has a transformer that regulates your home’s voltage to accommodate the system’s power output. Just like any other component of an HVAC system, your furnace transformer may fail and cause problems with the functioning of your unit.

If you suspect that your furnace transformer has broken down and wonder if you should begin searching for the best furnace repair company in San Diego, it would be a good idea for you to get an idea of its overall purpose in your furnace. In this article, we will explain what the transformer is, how it works, and what may cause it to break down.

What is a furnace transformer?

A furnace transformer is a device designed to decrease or increase the voltage of an alternating current (AC) to make it suitable for use in your heating system. It transfers electrical energy from a circuit to another using electromagnetic induction. The main role of a transformer in a furnace is to regulate the incoming voltage to meet the system’s requirements. Depending on the amount of power needed by the furnace, the transformer can diminish or amplify the electricity usage. In an HVAC system, the transformer is typically located inside your furnace, but it may be located in your outdoor AC unit in some cases.

What causes a furnace transformer to blow?

Your furnace transformer may fail due to several reasons, including the following:

• Faulty contractor: a bad contractor is one of the most common causes of a blown transformer. This is because a faulty contractor can put the entire system under stress, causing the transformer to blow once the tension becomes too much.
• Wiring problems: if there are loose cables or wires inside your transformer, they may cause a short circuit, frying the transformer.
• Power surges: similarly, a power surge may also cause your transformer to blow, resulting in problems with the entire unit.

How do I know if my furnace transformer is bad?

If you suspect that your HVAC transformer is faulty, you may want to look out for the following signs and symptoms.

Visual signs
Sometimes, performing a visual inspection of your furnace transformer can help identify issues with the equipment right away. For instance, if you notice any burn marks or bulges along the exterior, it is likely that the transformer needs to be replaced. If you do notice any visual damage, do not try to test the unit yourself. Instead, contact a professional HVAC contractor to inspect your unit and determine the right course of action. If you attempt to test or repair the unit yourself, you may cause the unit to overheat and break down completely.

Vibrating and humming sounds
It is normal to notice a humming sound in your transformer. This is because the iron core or the laminations of the transformer expand and contract, producing a humming sound. However, if you notice a drastic increase in humming accompanied by vibrations, your transformer may be faulty. Also, you should keep in mind that the humming sound may be the result of other issues, such as a faulty furnace capacitor. This is why it’s usually best to have a professional technician inspect your furnace and see what the problem is.

Tripped circuit breaker
If the transformer of your furnace is faulty, it will usually cause the circuit breaker to trip in order to prevent a voltage surge. A surge of voltage may fry various components of your furnace, causing serious damage. If the circuit breaker keeps tripping or if your furnace keeps blowing fuses, the transformer may be the culprit.

Furnace not working properly
If you have a bad transformer, your furnace may not work even with an appropriate power supply. The system does this to protect itself from severe damage caused by electrical issues. Unless you’re an expert, it’s unlikely that you’d be able to confirm with certainty that your furnace is malfunctioning because of a faulty transformer. If you can’t get your furnace to work, make sure to contact a reliable HVAC company to have it inspected.

What happens when a transformer goes bad?

When the transformer in your furnace breaks down, the unit will receive weak power or no power at all. You can check whether there’s power to your unit by turning it off and on again. If there is very little power or none at all, you may need to have the unit replaced or repaired. Alternatively, can also check the voltage points of your furnace. If the voltage is weak or non-existent, there may be several causes, such as a faulty control board.

Can I Replace The Transformer Myself?

Unless you are a qualified and experienced technician who knows a lot about HVAC transformers, you may be able to perform the replacement yourself. If you are a homeowner who has no experience with repairing furnaces, we strongly advise you against attempting to repair or replace the transformer. Think about this: would you rather pay a trained and reliable technician to perform the job according to the latest industry standards? Or would you rather risk damaging your furnace and paying for a new unit? Answering these questions should be enough to help you decide.

Who performs the best furnace repair in San Diego?

Whether you suspect a faulty transformer or wish to have your blower motor checked, make sure to contact Action Air Conditioning, Heating & Solar. With years of experience in the field, our technicians are highly skilled at troubleshooting HVAC systems and resolving both simple and complex issues. If we determine that your unit is past the point of repair, we can recommend the best replacement for your needs and perform the installation following the highest industry standards.

You can depend on our expert technicians no matter where you’re located in San Diego County. We are known for our prompt response and an unrelenting dedication to ensuring our customers’ satisfaction. Contact Action Air Conditioning, Heating & Solar today and maximize your indoor comfort.