While it’s common knowledge that calling for heating repair service is necessary when the furnace fails to turn on or when no heat is emitted through the registers, other signs of furnace issues also warrant prompt attention – if you can recognize them.
Some indicators are more obvious than others. Furnace neglect, whether intentional or unintentional, is a prevalent reason for furnace breakdowns or failure to reach its expected lifespan of 15 to 20 years.
It’s advisable to seek heating repair service – sooner rather than later – if you observe:
- Unusually high heating bills compared to your typical consumption, regardless of fluctuations in utility rates.
- The furnace cycling on and off frequently, indicating an underlying issue.
- Inconsistent temperatures throughout your home.
- Uncomfortable humidity levels or air quality, characterized by excessive dryness, stuffiness, mustiness, or staleness.
Addressing these issues often involves scheduling a furnace “tune-up,” also known as an annual maintenance check, and possibly an energy audit to identify energy inefficiencies in your home.
More concerning are abnormal furnace noises, as most electrical devices signal internal problems through such sounds. Although some may initially be subtle, they warrant investigation, ideally with your ear near the furnace.
Common furnace noises include:
- Low-pitched rumbling, possibly indicating an improperly adjusted pilot light or dirty gas burners.
- High-pitched wailing or squealing, often caused by shaft bearings requiring oil or a misaligned blower belt.
- Louder, disruptive noises like banging, clanking, or grinding, which may suggest a delayed ignition.
A licensed heating repair technician can promptly identify and rectify these issues, ensuring smooth and efficient furnace operation.
The most serious furnace issues may only be confirmed through visual inspection, which should be conducted regularly. A clear warning sign is a distinctly dusty smell emanating when the furnace activates.
Here’s what to do:
- Check the furnace filter for clogs and replace if necessary, keeping spare filters on hand during winter.
- Verify that the furnace flame appears bright blue, not yellow, indicating clean burners.
- Inspect for dirt, dust, or soot around the furnace, as well as rust flakes on the floor, which may indicate burner cleaning is required.
In the worst-case scenario, rust flakes could signal a cracked heat exchanger, posing a risk of elevated carbon monoxide levels. This colorless, odorless gas can cause flu-like symptoms and poses a health hazard to occupants.
At Experts In Your Home, we prioritize safety and recommend addressing issues promptly to prevent major repairs during winter. For peace of mind and uninterrupted heating this winter, contact us at the first sign of trouble and schedule your seasonal Chico heating system check-up.