Our HVAC technicians are often asked why furnaces only seem to breakdown on the coldest days of the year, and even we have to admit – it does seem that way sometimes. Of course, that’s also the day of the year that your furnace is having to work it’s hardest. So, if there is a problem, that’s when it will most likely rear its ugly head.
The good news is, when a furnace starts to fail, it typically shows several warning signs before a complete breakdown. Paying attention to these early indicators can help you schedule furnace repairs and prevent a costly and unexpected system failure when you need your furnace the most.
8 Early Warning Signs Your Furnace Needs Service
Performance issues, strange smells and sounds, and even some visible cues are a good indicator your furnace needs a professional HVAC technician.
Uneven Heating – If you notice that some rooms in your home are colder than others, your furnace may be struggling to distribute heat evenly. This can be caused by leaky ducts, a clogged air filter, or an aging system.
Weak Airflow – Low airflow from your vents, even after changing the filter, can be a sign of a clogged blower fan or a dying blower motor. Thy key is to get it cleaned, repaired or replaced before it dies completely.
Short-Cycling – If your furnace frequently turns on and off, it’s not only warning you that something is wrong, it’s putting unnecessary wear and tear on your furnace. Known as short-cycling, it can shorten the life of your unit and cause system failure.
Higher Energy Bills – When your furnace is worn out or in need of repair, it has to work harder and run longer to heat your home, which can lead to an often sudden and unexplained spike in your utility costs.
Strange Noises –Squealing, scraping or rattling could indicate a loose or worn-out blower belt, failing motor bearings, or a crack in the heat exchanger, while banging or popping could be an issue with the gas ignition.
Unusual Smells – A burning odor is normal when you first turn on your furnace for the season, but if the smell persists, it could signal that the blower motor is getting overheated. Musty odors are also a sign that your furnace needs service due to mold or mildew growth.
Soot or Rust – Excessive soot around your furnace or registers, or within your ducts, can indicate a combustion problem, while rust can signal a leaky secondary heat exchanger, which can allow carbon monoxide into your home.
Moisture or Leaks – Some condensation is normal with high-efficiency furnaces, but a puddle of water around your unit can mean a clogged condensate line or a cracked heat exchanger.
Other more serious signs that your furnace needs immediate emergency repairs include a Sulphur-like, rotten egg smell, or a yellow or flickering pilot light flame, instead of blue. These are serious warning signs that you may have a natural gas leak or your furnace may be producing carbon monoxide. If you experience e either of these, immediately leave your home and call 911.
Furnace Service & Repairs in Queensbury, Lake George, Glens Falls and Saratoga
Don’t wait until you really need your furnace to ensure it’s running safely and effectively. Be on the lookout for these early warning signs that your furnace could be struggling, and schedule your annual fall check-up with the HVAC experts at Jack Hall Plumbing & Heating. We provide comprehensive furnace maintenance and repairs on all makes and models.
To schedule furnace service in Queensbury, Lake George, Glens Falls, Saratoga or anywhere in the surrounding area, call 518-792-7114 or contact us.