It’s the middle of winter, and you’re noticing that your furnace is running a little more often than last month. You might be tempted to try and fix it yourself, but before you do, here are five signs that it might be to call in a professional.
Your furnace is making strange noises.
One of the essential pieces of equipment in your home is your furnace. Not only does it keep your family warm during the cold winter months, but it also plays a vital role in maintaining indoor air quality. That’s why it’s essential to note any strange noises from your furnace. While some sounds, like gentle humming, are normal, others indicate a problem. For example, a loud banging noise could be caused by a loose piece of metal or an accumulation of dirt and debris. You should contact a qualified technician for diagnosis and repairs if you hear strange noises from your furnace. Taking action early can help prevent more significant problems down the road.
The furnace is not turning on or taking a long time to heat your home.
If you have an issue with your furnace not turning on, or it’s taking a long time to heat your home, you can check a few things before calling a professional. First, ensure that the thermostat is set to “heat” and that the temperature is high enough. If the furnace is still not coming on, check the circuit breaker or fuse box to see if the circuit has been tripped or blown. The problem may be with the furnace itself if everything looks normal there. Check to see a reset button on the furnace and try resetting it. If that doesn’t work, you will likely need to call a professional to diagnose and repair the issue.
You can see dust or dirt coming out of the vents.
If you see dust or dirt coming out of the vents, it’s most likely due to a build-up of debris in the ventilation system. Over time, dust and dirt can accumulate in the vents, making it necessary to clean them out regularly. The best way to clean vents is to use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment. Start by vacuuming the outside of the vents to remove any loose debris. Then, gently scrub the inside of the vents using the brush attachment. Be sure to vacuum up any debris that falls out during the cleaning process.
If you have any concerns about the cleanliness of your vents, you can also contact a professional to clean them for you. Vent cleaning is essential to keeping your home clean and safe, so don’t hesitate to reach out for help if you’re unsure of how to proceed.
There's an increase in your energy bills.
You might not think much about your furnace until it starts acting up. Suddenly, you’re faced with an unexpected increase in your energy bills and, in some cases, a decrease in your home’s comfort level. Here are four signs to look for if you’re wondering whether it’s time to call a furnace repair service.
First, take a look at your energy bills. If you’ve noticed a steady increase over the past few months, it could be due to your furnace working overtime to heat your home. Second, listen to strange noises coming from your furnace. If you hear banging, popping, or whistling, it could be a sign that something’s not right. Third, pay attention to the smell of your furnace. A burning smell usually indicates something wrong with the electrical components, while a musty odor could signify mold or mildew. Finally, it could be time for a tune-up if your home doesn’t feel as warm as it used to. By scheduling regular maintenance appointments, you can keep your furnace running smoothly and help prevent future problems.
Your furnace is leaking water.
You must take immediate action if you notice water leaking from your furnace. While a small amount of condensation is average, excessive leaking can signify a serious problem. The most common cause of water leaks is a clogged drain line. This can be caused by various things, including dirt, debris, or even a tiny animal nesting in the bar. If you suspect your drain line is clogged, shut off the power to your furnace and call a heating technician to have it cleaned out.
Another possible cause of a water leak is a cracked heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is responsible for transferring heat from the burning gases to the air that is circulated through your home. If it breaks, it can start to leak water. This severe problem should be fixed as soon as possible by a qualified technician.
Conclusion
If you’re experiencing any of the above problems with your furnace, it’s time to call a professional. Noland Heat and Air is an HVAC contractor that can help you get your furnace back up and running in no time. We offer 24/7 emergency service so that you can stay warm and comfortable all winter long.
Noland Heat and Air is your trusted furnace repair company in Searcy, AR. Our team of certified technicians has the experience and knowledge to get your furnace running like new again. Contact us today for all of your furnace repair needs!
