Winter is here, and there’s nothing more comforting than turning on your furnace to keep you and your loved ones warm and cozy. However, your furnace can malfunction if you ignore its maintenance needs. While some furnace issues can be fixed with Do-It-Yourself methods, there are times when calling a professional is necessary. In this blog post, we’ll highlight the most common signs that indicate when it’s time to call a professional for a broken furnace repair.
Common signs that indicate when it’s time to call a professional for a broken furnace repair
The furnace is making weird noises.
When you hear unusual noises, such as rattling, squeaking, or banging sounds coming from your furnace, there’s a high chance that your furnace is not working correctly. While some simple maintenance may fix the issue, prolonged neglect can result in significant damage and endanger your safety. It’s best to call a technician to diagnose the cause of the noise and repair any damage if there’s any.
Unpleasant Smell and Odors.
If you perceive a strange smell-like odor of gas or burning plastic from your furnace, then you need to call a professional right away. These smells can indicate a gas leak or an electrical problem, which severely threatens your home’s safety. If you don’t feel any moving heated air or detect any unusual odors or smells coming from your heating vents, that’s a sure sign of a broken or malfunctioning furnace. A broken or cracked gas line can emit odors and can cause a furnace to malfunction, too. Physicians advise that you immediately evacuate your home and call your local gas company or technician to fix the issue.
Cold air is coming from vents.
If your furnace is not producing heat and cold air is coming out of the vents, there may be an issue with the furnace’s ignition or pilot light. Cold air can also indicate issues with your ductwork. You can try to clear vents of any blockage or change filters, but it’s best to hire an HVAC professional to perform the necessary repairs.
Increase your utility bill.
If there’s a sudden spike in your utility bill compared to previous years, it may indicate that your furnace is not operating efficiently. A malfunctioning furnace requires more energy and leads to increased heating bills. Getting professional help to repair your system can save money and energy in the long run by making sure your furnace runs efficiently and accurately.
Old Age of Furnace.
Just like any other home appliance, a furnace has a limited lifespan. Generally, furnaces over 15 years or more old will start to fail or require more frequent repairs. If your furnace is between 15-20 years old, it’s best to call a professional and start considering replacing your furnace. Installing new and energy-efficient furnaces can save you up to 30% on your heating bills.
Constant Repair
If you find yourself calling for furnace repairs frequently, it’s a sign that something isn’t right with your furnace. Continuous repairs may indicate that your furnace is old or damaged beyond repair. In such cases, you may need to invest in a new furnace or replacement parts for your existing one.
Uneven Heating
It’s tough to feel comfortable in your own home when the heating system doesn’t work correctly. If you experience cold spots or uneven heating in some areas of your home, it may be because of a malfunctioning furnace. A clogged filter, duct leakage, or malfunctioning heat pumps may cause uneven heating. A certified furnace technician can identify and fix any underlying issues to ensure that your home stays cozy and comfortable throughout the winter months.
Carbon Monoxide leaks
In a furnace, carbon monoxide gas comes from a poorly operating burner or a cracked heat exchanger. A properly tuned and maintained furnace greatly reduces the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Since carbon monoxide gas is colorless and odorless, it can go undetected.
A furnace leaking carbon monoxide is a potentially fatal issue that requires immediate attention. Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause headaches, nausea, dizziness, confusion, and even death. Therefore, it’s essential to act fast if you hear the furnace producing a burning smell, feel short of breath, or experience flu-like symptoms. Call for a professional furnace technician immediately to check and fix the possibility of a carbon monoxide leak.
Essential things to prepare for before calling a professional for a broken furnace repair.
1. Check the Thermostat:
First, check your furnace’s thermostat to make sure it’s set correctly. If the thermostat is not set correctly, your furnace may not be heating your home efficiently, or it could turn off and on randomly. Make sure to set the thermostat to the desired temperature, and if it’s still not working correctly, contact a professional for further assistance.
2. Check the Filter:
The filter plays a crucial role in the functioning of your furnace. A clogged furnace filter can cause your furnace to work harder, leading to mechanical problems, increased energy consumption, and poor air quality. If you notice a problem with your furnace, check the filter to see if it is clogged. If it is, replace it before calling a professional.
3. Shut Off the Furnace:
If you notice any unusual smells or sounds coming from the furnace, switch it off. Call a professional immediately to have it checked. A malfunctioning furnace can cause carbon monoxide leaks, leading to dangerous situations. If you suspect a gas leak or carbon monoxide leak, evacuate your home immediately and call a heating professional right away.
4. Gather Information:
Before calling a professional for furnace repair, gather all the necessary information about your furnace’s make and model. This information will help the professional identify your furnace type, which will save time and ensure the right tools are brought to the job. Note down any unusual sounds and physical symptoms that you’ve noticed from your furnace; this information will provide a diagnosis of the problem.
5. Ask for Recommendations:
If you’re unsure of which heating professional to call for furnace repair, ask your neighbors, friends, and family for recommendations. They are a great source of information about service quality, reliability, and workmanship. Choosing a reliable service provider for furnace repairs is important, as an unreliable provider may cause more harm than good.
In conclusion, the blog post outlines the most common signs that indicate the need to call a professional for a broken furnace repair. Remember, minor problems can turn into major problems if left unaddressed which can bring damage and safety hazards to homes. It’s essential to schedule annual HVAC maintenance inspections and cleanings to keep the furnace running in good condition. Lastly, if you notice any of the above signs, don’t hesitate to contact a licensed HVAC professional to diagnose and fix the issue. Regular maintenance and professional installation ensure your furnace’s longevity, efficiency, and safety and keep you warm and cozy throughout the winter season.
Stay warm and cozy this winter! Don’t let a malfunctioning furnace leave you in the cold. Our expert furnace repair services guarantee swift solutions and a toasty home. Schedule your repair with us now and enjoy reliable warmth all season long.