Is furnace repair in your future? Maybe you turned on the heat for the first time since winter to discover some troubling signs. Perhaps you remembered those insanely high utility bills from last winter and want to avoid that budget buster for winter 2015/16. Furnaces, just like any other complex system, need routine maintenance, the occasional repair and annual inspections to remain safe and functional. Fortunately, many times your furnace will let you know if something’s amiss.
Inspecting and repairing furnaces should be left to the professionals. Even if your furnace isn’t complaining, it’s a good idea to get your HVAC inspected at least once per year — and ideally in early autumn before you’re relying on your heating system around the clock. Catching problems early means easier, faster and more affordable fixes. However, if you suspect something is wrong in between inspections, call an HVAC expert pronto.
Here are some of the most common signs you might need furnace repair:
1. You hear a strange noise:
Just like with your car, a strange noise from your furnace could be nothing (a quick fix) or it could be a sign that something’s about to go terribly wrong. This is no time to gamble. Turn off the heat if it’s being used and call an HVAC expert immediately. The faster you move, the better.
2. It’s emitting a strange smell:
Any weird smells coming from a heating system are a red flag. Immediately move everyone, including pets, out of the home and call for an urgent inspection. This is when it’s really critical to have an HVAC expert who’s available around the clock. Again, this doesn’t necessarily mean your health is at risk, but you can never be too safe.
3. Your utility bills are creeping up:
Does it seem like your habits have stayed the same, but your heating bills just keep rising? This might be the sign of a leak or an older system that’s just not as efficient as it used to be. If you’ve taken other steps to reduce your utility bill but nothing seems to work, it’s time to call in the pros. Your utility company can tell you your average bill in the winter months so you can cross-reference with previous years.
4. You can’t recall when your furnace was last inspected:
If it’s been more than two years since your last inspection, you’re overdue. Waiting this long is demanding that a furnace work flawlessly with zero upkeep — that’s unrealistic. Especially compared to some boilers, furnaces rely on regular TLC to provide the best, most affordable heating.
5. Your furnace is over 10 years old:
With proper maintenance, furnaces can last for several years. However, older systems simply aren’t as efficient as newer, greener models. Your furnace may not need repair or replacement just yet, but schedule an inspection with Complete Heating & Air Conditioning to stay on the safe side.
