With the cold season fast approaching, it is the perfect time for homeowners to make sure that their furnaces are working properly. Replacing a furnace can be very costly; therefore, it is important to look out for common furnace warning signs in order to make the necessary tune-ups. Homeowners should employ a qualified HVAC technician to perform a furnace inspection and tune-up to avoid system failure just when they need to keep their homes warm and comfortable.
Common Furnace Warning Signs:
Old Furnace
A properly maintained furnace will last around ten years, after which, one may notice a decline in efficiency as well as an increase in the frequency of repairs. Although some high-quality furnaces may last for more than 20 years, it always pays to monitor an old furnace to avoid high energy and repair costs.
Unusual Odors and Noises
One of the most definitive warning signs is an unusual odor and sound emanating from the furnace. In fact, odors, rattles, creaks, and other strange noises may be signs of a more serious problem. Odors are in particular a strong indication that something is seriously wrong since furnaces should not emit odors. Experienced heating and cooling technicians can diagnose the problem and fix it fast and efficiently.
Yellow Flame
The color of the flame from a furnace can indicate whether it has a problem. If the flame is yellow or orange instead of a clean, stable blue, it is a sign that there is dirt in the burner. Obstructed airflow to the system can cause inappropriate mixture of oxygen and gas, thereby causing diminished heating effectiveness, which is why it is the first items a service technician will check.
Broken Thermostat
A simple miscommunication between the thermostat and the furnace is one of the most common problems. If the furnace keeps turning on and off, or if some rooms feel too cold no matter how high one turns up the thermostat, then it is a clear sign of a thermostat problem. An HVAC technician should be able to fix this problem easily.
It is important to invest in a furnace inspection before the cold season hits to prevent unexpected breakdowns and repairs. Better yet, homeowners should go for regular inspections and maintenance to keep their systems running at peak efficiency all year round. In case you notice any of the above warning signs, call your local HVAC contractors for heating system repair and maintenance services.
