When To Call a Professional for Furnace Repair
A furnace can provide heat during cold winter months, keeping your home warm and comfortable. Furnaces need regular maintenance and repair to keep them functioning properly throughout the season. While some minor repairs can be handled by homeowners, certain furnace issues require professional help. Here are some signs it may be time to call a professional for furnace repair:
Insufficient Heat Output
If your furnace struggles to keep your home warm, it could be a sign of a faulty system. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow and lower heating output. A malfunctioning thermostat may misread the temperature or cause the furnace to cycle on and off too frequently. If you’ve checked your air filter and thermostat and the problem persists, it’s time to call a professional for furnace repair. An experienced technician can identify and repair the problem to help the furnace function safely and efficiently.
Unusual Noises
If you hear rattling, banging, or other strange noises, it’s cause for concern. Loose or broken parts, such as a blower motor or fan belt, may cause these sounds. The furnace may be overheating, which could be a safety hazard. Ignoring unusual noises can lead to further damage and more expensive repairs. A professional can pinpoint the source of the noise and make any necessary repairs, restoring your furnace to proper working order.
Frequent Cycling
Furnaces are designed to turn on and off regularly to maintain a consistent indoor temperature. If your furnace is cycling too frequently, it could be a sign of a problem. This can lead to increased energy consumption, higher utility bills, and extra wear and tear on the system. Causes of frequent cycling include a dirty air filter, a faulty thermostat, or a malfunctioning blower motor. A professional can diagnose the problem and provide the necessary repairs to keep your furnace operating efficiently.
Strange Odors
If you notice any unpleasant smells coming from your furnace, it’s time to call a professional for furnace repair. Strange odors can be a warning sign of a bigger furnace problem, like a gas leak or faulty electrical wiring. Musty odors may indicate mold growth inside your furnace. These issues require a professional technician to clean, repair, or replace the furnace.
Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarms
Carbon monoxide detectors monitor the levels of carbon monoxide in your home and alert you when they exceed safe levels. If your carbon monoxide detector goes off, it may mean there’s a problem with your furnace. You should leave the house immediately, call 911, and contact a professional furnace repair service. Carbon monoxide poisoning can cause nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, and death.
High Energy Bills
If you’ve noticed a sudden increase in your energy bills, it could be a sign that your furnace is experiencing problems. A furnace struggling to work efficiently often requires more energy to produce the same amount of heat. This extra strain can cause your energy bills to increase significantly. Call a furnace repair professional after checking your filters and thermostats and confirming that they’re working correctly. They can diagnose and fix underlying issues that may be causing your furnace to work harder than needed.
Age of the Furnace
As the furnace ages, its efficiency decreases, and it consumes more energy. If it’s been over a decade since you last replaced your furnace, and if you start noticing problems like strange noises or failure to produce heat, it may be time to have it looked at by a professional. Professional technicians are trained to detect when a furnace has reached the end of its lifespan and will be able to either repair it or recommend a replacement.
Pilot Light Problems
A furnace’s pilot light is a small flame that ignites the gas burner. If the pilot light is out or not working correctly, it can lead to more significant issues with your furnace’s function. A faulty thermocouple, a clogged pilot orifice, or a gas valve malfunction can cause pilot light problems. Only a licensed technician should repair these problems as they can be dangerous and pose a safety hazard to untrained individuals.
Schedule Your Furnace Repair Today
If your furnace isn’t as efficient as it once was, or if you notice strange noises or smells, it may be time to call a professional to repair it. A properly functioning furnace helps keep your home warm and comfortable throughout the year. Contact an experienced furnace repair company today to learn more about their services and how they can help maintain your furnace to extend its lifespan.
