Fall is almost here, which means winter is trailing close behind. Soon, your furnace will be working overtime to keep your home cozy. But what happens when it starts acting up? It’s better to find this out before you really need your furnace (like in the middle of a coooold North Carolina winter). Ignoring these 5 warning signs can lead to costly repairs or even a complete breakdown. To help you stay ahead of the game, here are five common indicators that your furnace might need repair:
1. Unusual Noises
Your furnace should operate with a steady hum. A “steady hum” sound is not unusual. However, if you hear strange sounds like banging, rattling, screeching, or clicking, it’s a red flag. These noises may be tolerable. However, they could indicate a variety of issues, from loose components to more serious problems. Moral of the story, you don’t want to ignore any unusual noises.
2. Uneven Heating
Is one part of your home noticeably colder than others? Uneven heating can be a symptom of several issues, including a malfunctioning blower motor, clogged air filters, or ductwork problems. While it may be a simple fix (like replacing your air filter), it could require professional expertise to get your furnace working 100% again.
3. Increased Energy Bills
If your heating bills have suddenly spiked despite keeping your thermostat at the same temperature, it could mean your furnace is working harder than it should. Inefficiency due to wear and tear can significantly increase energy consumption. Not only does this put a damper on your wallet, but it can also strain your furnace. No one has time for increased energy bills or a full furnace replacement earlier than necessary. To avoid all this, make sure to schedule a furnace repair with a pro.
4. Short Cycling
Does your furnace turn on and off a lot, for no apparent reason, leaving you bundled up under blankets? A furnace that turns on and off frequently without reaching the desired temperature is said to be “short cycling.” This can be caused by a variety of factors, including a dirty air filter, thermostat issues, or problems with the ignition system.
5. Strange Odors
A furnace should produce minimal odors. If you smell a burning smell, gas-like odor, or any other unusual scent coming from your furnace, it’s crucial to turn off the system and contact a professional immediately. These smells could indicate a serious safety hazard. It’s important to remember never to attempt DIY repairs, as that can be a serious safety hazard as well.
Contact Halltec HVAC for All Your Furnace Repair Needs in Greenville, NC and the Surrounding Areas
If you notice any of these above signs, it’s essential to call a qualified HVAC technician (like Halltec HVAC) for inspection and repair. Ignoring these top five issues can lead to more significant problems and potentially dangerous situations. Even if the problem appears minor, it’s best to be safe rather than sorry. Also, scheduling regular furnace maintenance can help you avoid these problems in the first place, or at least catch them early enough. So, don’t wait until the middle of winter to have your furnace looked at! Contact Halltec HVAC for all your furnace repair, maintenance, installation or replacement needs in Greenville, NC and the surrounding areas.