A properly functioning furnace can prove to be a huge money saver for you. Malfunctioning furnaces not only consume excessive energy but also increase utility bills unreasonably. Hence, it is important for homeowners to get their heater checked and serviced at the beginning of every season.
You can easily identify the early warning signs that will remind you to service your furnace. The faster you recognize them and take action on it, the faster you save yourself from unnecessary expenses and hassles. Here are a few common signs that your furnace is not working correctly.
1) Increased Utility Bills
If you have noticed a sudden rise in your utility bills despite using your heating system like you normally do, the problem might be your furnace. Furnaces that are in need of repair prove to be less efficient in heating the home, subsequently consuming more energy to maintain the same temperature. Check if your system has been clogged by dirt. If yes, call an expert immediately to do the servicing.
2) No Proper Heating
A malfunctioning furnace cannot do its job effectively. So when you start experiencing cold spots inside your home, know that it is time to get your heater inspected. This usually happens because of a fault in the heater’s blower fan. The blower fan is responsible for distributing warm air evenly across your home. Also, check the filters while you are at it. It is recommended to replace the filters at least once in six months.
3) Strange Noises And Odors
Do you hear strange noises coming out of your furnace every time you use it? It is a warning signal for you to get it checked immediately. This occurs because some part within the unit has loosened or come off altogether. Also, check for smells around the furnace. If you smell gas at any time, don’t hesitate to call an HVAC specialist. Detecting strange odors and noises early will save you from overheating, fires, and gas poisoning.
4) Old Furnace
If you have an old furnace that you are using for over ten years, it is likely to need repairs. An average furnace lasts between ten to twenty years, that is if it has been kept and used properly. Another sign that your furnace has gotten old is finding more dust inside your home. This means that the furnace is not able to function properly because of the wear and tear. A burning yellow, red, or green color flame also indicate that there is a problem with it. If your old furnace has started giving you trouble lately, maybe it is time to say goodbye to it. For peace of mind, opt for a more energy efficient model.
5) Abrupt And Regular Breakdowns
Furnace repairs are by no means cheap. A major breakdown can cost you quite a large amount and creates unnecessary problems. One of the best ways to avoid this is to get your furnace regularly checked. However, if it has malfunctioned many times by now, replace your furnace immediately. If you don’t want to replace it, call an HVAC professional right away for professional repair services and guidance.
Facing problems with your furnace? Call our experts at Snell Plumbing Heating & Air for quality repair services. In addition to that, we also offer regular inspections to ensure that your heating system is working at its maximum efficiency!