Your furnace system is one of the most essential pieces of equipment in your home; you want to ensure it’s always in good working order. But sometimes, it’s hard to tell when something is wrong, which can be cause for concern for your family – especially in the dead of winter. It might seem like a daunting task, but remember that the sooner you get the issue sorted, the less money it will cost you in the long run. Let’s consider five warning signs you might need furnace repairs.
You’re seeing an increase in your energy bills.
One of the first signs your furnace is working below optimal capacity is if you start seeing a sudden spike in your heating costs. You’re bound to notice this at the end of the month. A faulty air conditioning unit will usually work harder than necessary and require more energy in the process. If your energy bills are going up, contact a technician for furnace repair services. This will increase your household energy efficiency and reduce your utility bills!
Your furnace is producing strange noises and smells.
Another clear sign that there’s something wrong with your furnace is if it starts making strange noises. This could be unsettling sounds like rattling, clicking, or humming. Aside from the noises, unusual smells can also signify a failing furnace. Furnaces often give off an acrid smell when they’re not working properly, so it’s best to get it checked out right away if you notice anything unusual. Any sort of furnace malfunction is worth addressing as soon as possible.
The airflow from your furnace is weak.
If you start to notice that the airflow from your furnace is weaker than usual, it’s a sign that something could be blocking the vents. This is usually caused by a buildup of dust and debris and can be easily fixed with a simple cleaning. However, if the problem persists, it could be a more severe issue, such as a cracked heat exchanger.
Your air conditioner is leaking.
If your air conditioner starts to leak, it’s time to get a technician to look at it. This is usually caused by a problem with the condensation line and can be very dangerous if not fixed quickly. Leaks can also damage your furniture, flooring, and other possessions in your home, so it’s best to consider repair as soon as possible.
Your furnace is old.
Like any other electrical appliance, furnaces have a limited lifespan. Most furnaces will last between 15 and 20 years, beyond which they’ll start deteriorating in performance. So if yours is getting up there in age, you might be faced with constant repair needs. However, this isn’t always necessary as some furnaces can last much longer with proper furnace service.
What are the major causes of furnace issues?
There are several things that can go wrong with your gas furnace, but some of the most common causes are:
Dust and debris buildup in the vents
Over time, the accumulation of dirt and dust in your air conditioning unit can cause it to work harder than necessary and eventually lead to a breakdown.
Malfunctioning thermostat
If your thermostat isn’t working correctly, it can prevent your HVAC system from turning on to the desired temperature or off when it should, which can cause all sorts of problems, like cold air being produced.
Bad wiring
Old or faulty wiring can easily cause your cooling and heating system to short out and stop working.
Defective parts
If a part of your air conditioning system is defective, it can cause the entire system to break down. This is why an experienced HVAC technician is so important to maintain your furnace regularly.
A clogged filter
A clogged air filter is one of the most common causes of furnace problems. It can prevent your furnace from working correctly and even cause it to overheat. But not to worry – worn-out or dirty filters are an easy problem to fix!
Low refrigerant levels
If the refrigerant levels in your furnace are too low due to a gas leak, it can cause the system not to work correctly.
Faulty heat exchanger
A cracked or damaged heat exchanger is one of the most serious problems with a furnace. If this happens, it can release carbon monoxide into your home, which can be very dangerous.
Old age
As mentioned earlier, an old furnace will deteriorate in performance over time. This is why it’s essential to keep track of the age of your furnace and replace it when necessary.
How often should I get my furnace checked?
The best way to ensure your furnace is running properly and isn’t going to break down is to have it checked by a qualified technician at least once a year. This will help catch any small problems before they turn into big ones. Alternatively, you can do it if there are any signs your furnace needs attention.
How long will my furnace last?
Most furnaces will last between 15 and 20 years. However, this can vary depending on the make and model of your furnace and how well you take care of it. Regular maintenance is the key to making your furnace last as long as possible.
Can I repair my furnace alone?
There are a few things that you can do to try and fix your furnace on your own, but for the most part, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Even for regular maintenance service, it’s best to call in a pro. Any small mistakes could cost you more in the long run if you end up doing more damage than good.
Need Furnace Repairs?
Tri-Tech Heating and Cooling offers both residential and commercial furnace repair services. Our expert technicians can help you sort out the issue if you think your furnace is faulty before anything gets out of hand! Our N.A.T.E certified technicians have many years of combined experience in furnace repairs and can have your system up and running again in no time. Give us a call today to schedule a professional repair!