All homeowners, both old and new alike, should always be aware of the condition of their furnace. Once you buy a home, it’s extremely important to keep track of your heating system to be sure that they are working properly and efficiently. Weather can be harsh in the Tri-State area, especially during the freezing winter months. During the cold seasons especially, it’s imperative that your furnace works properly. By checking on your furnace from time to time, and giving it a little TLC when it needs it, you can prevent this from happening. Replacing your furnace before it stops working completely may be in your best interest, especially if yours has experienced issues before. Installing a new furnace with Jones Services will give you peace of mind knowing that you and your loved ones won’t be stuck in the cold this year.
Here are 10 signs that your furnace may be failing:
Strange Noises
If a furnace is on the older side, it’s likely that it has already begun making noises. The occasional machinery hum is never a real issue, but if your furnace begins to make unusual sounds then it may be a sign of failure. Loud banging sounds, whistles, or ghostly moans are a sign that something may have come loose or detached within your heating system. If you have already noticed these unpleasant sounds, you should seriously consider replacing your furnace. Not only are extensive repairs to an outdated machine impractical, but costly as well.
Thermostat Inconsistencies
When you turn up your thermostat, the obvious result should be the temperature rising in your home. If your heating system is working properly, it should be able to heat your home quickly and efficiently. If you notice that the heating isn’t working at full capacity like it used to, there may be a problem with your furnace. While its possible for the thermostat itself to malfunction, it can also be a leak in your duct system or a fault within your furnace. No matter what the cause may be, you should schedule maintenance to find the source of the problem.
Sudden Spike in Electricity Bill
Like most homeowners, you probably keep a close eye on your utility bills. If you notice a sudden spike, it’s a telltale sign that your furnace may be failing. In this situation, it’s best to call a professional as soon as possible. The sooner the problem is taken care of, the sooner you will stop wasting money on your monthly utilities.
Yellow Pilot Light
Take a quick look at your pilot light and observe its color. No matter what, your pilot light should always be blue. This indicates that there is an even balance of gasses in your furnace, which is essential in heating your home as well as keeping you safe. If the flame is yellow, this is a major cause for concern. This is a sign of a gas imbalance in your heating system, and that lethal carbon monoxide may be leaking into your home. Exposure can lead to injury or death.
Start-Up Problems
If your furnace is up to date and working efficiently, there shouldn’t be any startup issues. There are several possible reasons why your furnace may be experiencing problems when turning on, but professional maintenance will let you know if it can be fixed or if it needs replacing.
Respiratory Problems
A furnace that needs repair can cause respiratory problems in your household. If a loved one’s asthma is being triggered frequently, or other chest related illness are occurring, your furnace may be the source of the problem. Inefficient systems can force dust, mold, mildew, and other pathogens into your home. Repair or replacement should take place as soon as possible.
Hot and Cold Spots
Inconsistent heating in your home is an obvious sign that your furnace is no longer capable of doing its job correctly. If some rooms have drastically different temperatures, it’s also a possibility that you are leaking heat somewhere along the line. Check crawlspaces, ducts, and your attic for signs of a leak. A professional can help before the situation escalates.
Condensation
Air condensation may not be an immediate concern for you or your home. Over time, however, it can cause damage. If a condensation problem persists, schedule maintenance.
Age
The average furnace has a lifespan of 10 to 20 years. If your furnace has received professional maintenance throughout the years, it’s highly likely that it will live to it’s fullest potential without any major issues. If your furnace is 15 years or older, you should be looking at new models. Installing a new furnace before your current one breaks is highly recommended, especially if yours is showing signs of failure.
Unpleasant Odor
The only time you should ever smell your furnace is during the first or second time you turn it on for the season. Smelling gas or oil after a few consecutive uses is a serious sign that something isn’t right with your furnace, and you should contact a professional as soon as possible. This could be a potentially hazardous situation if not addressed immediately.
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