5 Furnace Symptoms That Indicate A Professional Repair Is Needed
Once your furnace starts to operate differently from its usual manner, it is time to call a furnace repair specialist. Here are a few furnace symptoms that indicate that a professional repair is needed:
Your furnace doesn't respond to the thermostat.
Your furnace should release heat or stop blowing warm air in response to a different temperature setting on your thermostat. If you change your thermostat setting and there is no response from your furnace, there could be a problem with a faulty thermostat, a wiring issue or even an unlit pilot light.
Your furnace is making unusual noises.
When most furnaces are in operation, they usually emit a low vibrating sound. However, unusual sounds, such as loud knocks and screeches, should not be coming from your unit.
Sounds can often emanate when parts of a furnace start to disassemble or place more pressure on other furnace parts. Since each system component is important and serves a specific function, the loosening of unit parts can eventually cause your furnace to fail.
Your heating bill is higher than usual.
If your heating bill is much higher than it usually is, the efficiency of your system may be compromised. Heating costs during the same time of year should remain relatively the same as long as the energy prices are not raised by your utility company.
Your pilot light is an unusual color.
Fire can take on different hues based on the gasses to which it is exposed. Many pilot lights are blue in color. However, the flame may turn to yellow in the presence of carbon monoxide.
Carbon monoxide is an odorless, tasteless, colorless gas that is quite poisonous. Thus, if the presence of carbon monoxide is suspected, it is important to have the furnace inspected as soon as possible.
Your home doesn't heat evenly.
If the insulation throughout your home is pretty consistent, variations in temperature in certain rooms may be due to problems with the ducts of your furnace. Over time, debris may build up in the ductwork, restricting airflow to some of your interior living spaces. In addition, a duct that is torn or broken may not efficiently deliver heat.
If your heating system is not functioning properly, schedule a consultation with a heating repair specialist in your area. He or she will be able to assess your system and determine the types of repairs that may be necessary to optimize its function. In cases of extreme disrepair, or when a unit is too old to work efficiently, the specialist may suggest a furnace replacement. Companies like Washam Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning may be able to meet your needs in this area.