tempstar Furnace Troubleshooting

Tempstar furnaces are widely known for their highly efficient and reliable HVAC systems. With their Energy Star Certification and strong warranty, many people go for their furnaces. However, if you’re facing issues with your Tempstar furnace, it may be time for a repair or maintenance call.

But before you go ahead and call a professional, you can troubleshoot some issues on your end. In this article, we’re discussing exactly that – from troubleshooting your Temstar furnace to understanding its error codes and more.

Common Issues with Tempstar Furnaces and How to Solve Them

When your furnace stops producing heat, several factors could be at play:

  • Thermostat Adjustments: Ensure the thermostat is switched to "heat" mode and set above the ambient room temperature.

  • Power Issues: Confirm the furnace's main switch is turned on and check if any circuit breakers have tripped. Also, verify that the furnace door is properly shut since an open door can halt operation.

  • Ignition Troubles: Depending on your model number it may or may not have a pilot light. Mostly, older models have them. So, check if the pilot light is working well. If your model uses electronic ignition and isn’t starting, you may need to reset the ignition system.

The blower motor is crucial for distributing warm air throughout your home. Tempstar has its unique ECM motor that is considered to be highly electrically efficient. So, if it fails, comfort levels can drop and energy bills may rise:

  • Capacitor Failure: A malfunctioning capacitor might prevent the blower motor from starting. A humming noise often signals this issue.

  • Motor Wear: Error codes displayed on the control board can point towards ECM motor problems. Visually inspect the motor for damage and test its functionality with a multimeter.

  • Airflow Obstruction: A dirty or clogged air filter can impede airflow, causing the motor to overheat and shut down. Replace the air filter if it appears dirty.

A furnace that frequently turns on and off might be experiencing:

  • Thermostat Issues: Incorrect thermostat calibration or placement can trigger frequent cycling. Position the thermostat away from direct heat sources and windows.

  • System Overheating: Limited airflow from closed or blocked vents can cause the furnace to overheat and cycle irregularly.

  • Flame Sensor Problems: A defective flame sensor may incorrectly sense the flame, causing the furnace to prematurely shut down. Clean the flame sensor with a fine abrasive to improve its accuracy.

Any strange noises from your furnace typically indicate an underlying issue:

  • Belt Squealing: This sound often suggests a belt that is either loose or deteriorating. Inspect and possibly replace the belt.

  • Loose Components: Rattling noises may stem from unsecured panels or screws. Tightening these components can help minimize the noise.

  • Bearing Issues: Grinding sounds might indicate worn bearings in the blower motor. If lubrication does not solve the problem, replacing the motor may be necessary.

A non-functional ignition system can leave your home without heat:

  • Safety Lockout: The furnace may enter a lockout mode after multiple unsuccessful ignition attempts. Resetting the furnace can sometimes clear this mode.

  • Gas Flow Interruptions: Check that the gas valve is open and inspect the gas line for blockages or leaks.

  • Worn Igniter: Over time, igniters can fail. Testing the igniter with a multimeter can determine if a replacement is needed.

Decoding Tempstar Furnace Error Codes

LED Flash Indications

Continuous Flash

Indicates normal operation with an active heat call.

Heartbeat Flashing

This signifies normal operation without a heat call.

Specific Error Codes

1 Flash

System lockout due to excessive retries or recycles.

2 Flashes

Indicates a pressure switch stuck open; check for obstructions in the exhaust pipe vents or issues with the pressure switch itself.

3 Flashes

 Suggests a pressure switch stuck closed; examine the pressure tubing for blockages.

4 Flashes

High limit switch is open, potentially due to a dirty filter, blocked ductwork, or an issue with the fan.

5 Flashes

Detects flame when none should exist; investigate a possible leaky gas valve or defective flame sensor.

6 Flashes

Ignition failure; verify gas flow, igniter functionality, and the condition of the flame sensor.

7 Flashes

Limit circuit lockout; this happens when the limit or flame rollout switch remains open for more than 3 minutes. Reset the power to clear this.

8 Flashes

Gas heating lockout; check if the gas valve is operational.

9 Flashes

Low flame detected; clean the flame sensor and ensure the burner and gas supply are functioning correctly.

10 Flashes

Incorrect polarity in power supply; confirm that the wires for power supply polarity are correctly working.

Tempstar furnaces communicate operational issues through error codes displayed as LED light sequences on the control board. These codes are essential for identifying problems:

The-5-Best-Furnace-Repair-Services-in-banff

Additional Multi-flash Codes

1+5 Flashes

Indicates a blower motor lockout; check the motor and capacitor for functionality.

2+4 Flashes

The secondary voltage fuse has blown; inspect for any short circuits.

3+5 Flashes

Points to a gas valve error; examine the wiring and connections of the gas valve installed.

4+1 Flashes

Alerts to a temperature rise that is too high or too low; assess the filter and overall airflow to decide if you need it replaced or cleaned.

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Furnace Troubleshooting Guides

Our comprehensive troubleshooting guide offers step-by-step solutions to common issues. From heating failures to airflow problems, we've got you covered."

dong Lauredodong Lauredo
05:09 13 Oct 24
they are very professional people , they took good care of the problem .I would definitely recommend them .. very cheerful and nice to deal with
William HucmanWilliam Hucman
00:23 07 Oct 24
My hot water tank failed on a Friday evening. Had spent some time on Saturday morning calling a number of service companies and Comfort Union was one of the quickest to respond and able to execute the work over the weekend. The gentlemen that showed up were very friendly, completed the work in a timely manner, left no damage and cleaned up after the work was complete. Great experience with Comfort Union!
Trang LeiTrang Lei
04:33 06 Oct 24
We strongly recommend that Comfort Union attends to your residential heating, plumbing, and electrical services. Our tank water heater broke down on the weekend. On Monday, we called a few large companies, and all their estimates were on par or above the price point for the following tankless water heaters: Navien NPE-240A2, Rinnai RXP199iN, Rheem CRTGH95DVLN-3, AOSmith ATHR-199X3. During our online search, we encountered a hidden gem: Comfort Union, a small, family-oriented business with competitive and affordable pricing. They strive to adhere to a strict moral code that values integrity, fairness, and straightforwardness. We had the pleasure of meeting Asif, who was patient and took the time to address all our questions, concerns, and needs. He assessed the situation and recommended the most suitable tankless water heater option.We were not pressured to buy products – Asif was genuine and transparent. He used his expertise to guide our decision-making, always considering our needs and best interests. Ultimately, we decided on the Rinnai RX199iN SENSEI® RX Series. This model from Rinnai, a frontrunner in the industry, offers higher efficiencies, higher BTU output, better pairing with existing systems, and forward-thinking technologies. These unique features have truly enhanced our home comfort and reduced our energy bill. Asif and his team were excellent. Their workmanship, craftsmanship, and customer service are unparalleled. With their engineering backgrounds, they combine their vital knowledge to ensure our installation process is of the highest quality and standard. A special thanks to Asif, who worked tirelessly and meticulously to ensure all components were correctly installed and even took extra effort to reposition the water supply line and pipe at no additional cost. These thoughtful additions demonstrate their attention to detail and commitment to customer satisfaction, making us feel valued and important. Their commitment to our satisfaction was evident throughout the process, making us feel truly important. Thanks to their professionalism and expertise, the entire process was smooth and hassle-free. Their service was not only quick and reliable but also very affordable.  This affordability, coupled with their superb customer service, a key factor that sets them apart, will make me use them for all my residential heating, plumbing, and electrical services needs. Our experience with Comfort Union has been nothing short of exceptional. We couldn't be more satisfied!
Andrea MendrosAndrea Mendros
16:45 04 Oct 24
I recommend this with a Heart. Found this site in goggle. And they did a very good job.
Abdel Aziz FarahAbdel Aziz Farah
17:54 02 Oct 24
Asif and Ismail were awesome came in let me know everything I needed and it was a smooth install. Would highly recommend them to anybody!!!
Ab CaAb Ca
04:01 30 Sep 24
I recently had the pleasure of working with Comfort Union for three major installations in my home—a new heat pump, a tankless water heater, and a furnace—and I couldn't be happier with the entire experience!Heat Pump Installation:From the first consultation, Comfort Union’s team impressed me with their knowledge and transparency. I decided to upgrade to a heat pump because I wanted to improve energy efficiency and take advantage of both heating and cooling from one system. The team carefully assessed my home’s layout and explained every step of the process, including how the heat pump would function in Calgary’s colder climate. They even took the time to break down the cost savings I could expect over time.The installation was seamless. The technicians were punctual, professional, and clearly experts in their field. They worked efficiently, ensuring that all components were correctly installed, and even took extra care to tidy up after themselves. They walked me through the setup, explaining how to use the system, and answered all of my questions patiently. Now, I enjoy year-round comfort with a system that’s quiet, effective, and eco-friendly!Tankless Water Heater Installation:I also had Comfort Union install a tankless water heater (Rinnai RXP199), and it’s been a game-changer for my household. No more waiting for the water to heat up or running out of hot water during long showers—this tankless system delivers endless hot water on demand!Their installation team was fantastic. They emphasized the importance of proper installation for efficiency and to protect the warranty, which gave me peace of mind knowing I was in good hands. I appreciated that they took the time to explain the maintenance needs to ensure the system stays in top shape for years to come. Plus, they added smart touches like installing a drier filter for extra protection against Calgary’s colder months.Furnace Installation:Lastly, I had Comfort Union replace my old furnace, and wow—what a difference it’s made! They recommended a high-efficiency model based on my home’s size and heating needs, and it has drastically improved my energy bills. The new furnace is powerful yet super quiet, and I can already feel the consistent warmth throughout my house.I can’t stress enough how smooth this installation went. The team was respectful of my space, even laying down mats to protect my floors. They installed a new programmable thermostat and made sure everything was running perfectly before leaving. They also included a comprehensive warranty and provided advice on how to keep the system running efficiently for years.Overall Experience:What I love most about Comfort Union is how they combine their technical expertise with a personal touch. From the friendly office staff to the knowledgeable technicians, everyone I interacted with was professional, courteous, and genuinely cared about my comfort. I also appreciate that they offer full coverage with their installations, including maintenance plans, which makes me feel even more confident in my investment.If you’re looking for a reliable, family-run HVAC company that truly puts customers first, I highly recommend Comfort Union. Their workmanship, attention to detail, and top-notch service exceeded all my expectations. Whether you need a new heat pump, tankless water heater, or furnace, you won’t be disappointed!
Pramila YesudasPramila Yesudas
03:26 30 Sep 24
Asıf and team replaced our hot water tank very quickly and efficiently. Asif was very professional and communicated well with us. Asıf is knowledgeable, I would definitely recommend comfort union heating and plumbing company to others. Thank you Asıf for your quick and responsible work.
Rych 1821Rych 1821
01:19 20 Sep 24
Asif and his team installed a heat pump in my home. They did an excellent job. Quality of work was very good. They were friendly and helpful; happy to explain what they were doing and answer any questions. Very pleased with the service.  Highly recommended.Looking forward to the annual maintenance service from you, guys. Thank you.
Omolade AjetunmobiOmolade Ajetunmobi
05:13 19 Sep 24
Both Moe and Ben were really good and they completed the heat pump install in a timely manner. Very professional and kept our place clean afterwards.
Pablo GPablo G
01:15 18 Sep 24
Tankless Water Heater: Very happy and impressed with how quickly Asif came out to assess the problem, with his knowledge and the response time to quote and install a replacement unit. No pressure sales and upfront pricing with no surprises. I had a quote from another ‘Rinnai Approved’ company who flip-flopped on the work scope, upgrades and advised on new venting (at great cost) that was simply not needed. The tech (Mo) did a good job removing and installing the new unit and so far the unit has been working great.
Glen RGlen R
17:46 07 Sep 24
I recently had the pleasure of working with Comfort Union Heating and Plumbing, and I can’t say enough about the exceptional service I received. Led by Asif, the team was incredibly meticulous in their work, ensuring that every detail was attended to.Their attention to detail and commitment to quality work were evident from start to finish. If you’re looking for reliable and skilled service in heating and plumbing, I highly recommend Comfort Union Heating and Plumbing. Thank you, Asif, Muhammad and the team, for a great experience!
Chris EllettChris Ellett
13:28 06 Sep 24
I had a great experience with comfort union. Even over the long weekend they answered the phone, and were there the next day to replace my hot water tank. Moe called in the morning to give me an ETA and then a text when he was actually on the way. He was thorough, friendly, knowledgeable and would use this family run business again
Berta SiposBerta Sipos
02:20 05 Sep 24
Amazing service Asif, Mo and Daryl. Thank you Comfort Union! On Friday evening our hot water tank stoped working. We e- mailed Comfort Union in 30 minutes they called us back. Very professional and friendly staff. Friday evening we had our quote. Very detailed and clear. On Saturday morning they called to see if we have any questions. The price was very reasonable. We booked the service and that afternoon we had a brand new hot water tank installed. We were very pleased and we highly recommend Comfort Union. These three young man were just amazing! Thank you again.
SamiurSamiur
20:24 04 Sep 24
Professional, competitive and immediate service. Installed a new heat pump from them and it was good experience. Highly recommend.
Charles KabanoCharles Kabano
19:12 01 Sep 24
Comfort Union just finished up HVAC work for the secondary suite basement for us in Airdrie, and I gotta say, these guys did a fantastic job. They installed a new Carrier furnace, moved our old Trane to a different spot, and hooked us up with a Lennox AC. Everything was smooth, and they really knew what they were doing.I love that they’re a family business—and really care about their work and their customers. The crew was super friendly and easy to talk to, and they made sure to explain everything along the way. The new furnace and AC are working great, and moving the old unit seemed like no big deal for them.Overall, just a great experience. If you need any HVAC work done in Airdrie, these are the people to call. Can’t recommend Comfort Union enough!
KyleKyle
21:57 29 Aug 24
Vic DePazVic DePaz
01:09 28 Aug 24
Comfort Union team was awesome to deal with and loved they are Calgary family run business. I will greatly recommend them. Great work.
Kathleen VinluanKathleen Vinluan
01:26 24 Aug 24
Quick and Reliable.
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Understanding when to call an HVAC professional

While some issues can be handled on your own, a majority of them need the intervention of an HVAC professional – like those at Comfort Union. A lot of the ones mentioned above call for a quick inspection but one of the most dangerous issues is if your carbon monoxide detectors are alarming you. Call us immediately if you see this or if you see yellow flames instead of blue in your furnace.

We help our customers fix all the problems – be it with your natural gas furnace or with your air conditioning unit. Reach out to us to learn more and ask any questions about your furnace! We’ll be happy to answer all your queries in a correct and precise manner.

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