The temperatures are dropping fast. If you haven’t done it already, now is the time to start thinking about your heating system. It’s one of the most essential components of your house, so you want to make sure it’s in good working condition and ready to provide reliable warmth to your home all winter long.
You should pay close attention to your heating system’s operating characteristics after you turn it on for the first time this season. There are several tell-tale signs to watch out for that indicate you need professional heater maintenance, and still other signs your heating system needs to be replaced. If any of these problems are happening in your home, call your local HVAC contractor to ensure your family stays warm and cozy.
Here are 7 signs that your heating system needs maintenance:
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An Increase In Energy Bills
One of the most noticeable signs that your heating system needs attention is a sudden increase in your energy bill. There can be legitimate reasons for your furnace to work harder and lead to higher costs, such as unusually cold temperatures, or drafts from damage or renovation. But without such causes, if you’re paying a lot more than last winter at the same rates, your heater may need repair. If, on the other hand, it’s your rates that are going up, consider switching to one of Apex Air’s high-efficiency furnace options.
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Overdue Heater Maintenance
If your furnace hasn’t been inspected and serviced for over a year, it’s a good idea to schedule a service call now before the cold weather arrives. Your heating system requires regular maintenance and inspection to keep it operating properly and efficiently. This will not only ensure the best performance from your furnace, it will allow for the discovery of minor issues before they become serious ones, extend the lifetime of your system by keeping it lubricated and free of dust and debris.
Manufacturer warranties require proof of annual maintenance to be valid. We offer a service plan that will save you money and ensure your heating system never misses a tune-up.
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A Yellow Pilot Light
If things are operating properly, the pilot light in your furnace should be a bright blue color. If your flame is yellow, that could be a sign that your furnace has a carbon monoxide leak. You may also smell gas if this is the case. Because this is a poisonous gas, this should be checked out by an HVAC professional immediately. Due to its flammable nature, you should turn your furnace off as well. If you suspect carbon monoxide, or if you have a very strong gas smell, you should open the windows and get out of the house until it is inspected.
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The Furnace Is Making Strange Noises
Your furnace will make some noises even when it’s operating normally. You get used to these sounds and usually don’t notice them anymore. But if you start hearing unusual pops, squeaks, creaks, banging or rattling, it’s time to get your furnace inspected and repaired before loose or unlubricated components cause major damage.
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Slow Heating Performance
While it’s not unusual for your heating system to take a while to increase the temperature inside your home, especially when you’ve just turned it on for the first time of the season, if it’s taking a significant amount of time to reach your temperature setting, it’s a sign that there could be a problem. It’s a good idea to be proactive and have it checked.
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Furnace Cycling On and Off Frequently
Your furnace should operate in predictable cycles, turning on when the temperature drops below the thermostat setting and off when the desired temperature is reached. Frequent cycling, where the system turns on and off more often than usual, can be caused by overheating, an oversized furnace or thermostat malfunctions.
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Uneven Home Heating
If you’re experiencing noticeable temperature differences between rooms in your home, your heating system may be struggling to distribute the heat evenly throughout due to blocked ductwork or other problems requiring professional attention.
Have you noticed any of these trouble signs with your heating system? Trust the experts at Apex Air for all of your heating maintenance needs.