A complete heating system breakdown in the dead of winter can be stressful, uncomfortable, and even dangerous in some cases. In many intances, a heating system will show signs of trouble well before it completely stops working. By acting promptly, you can avoid a breakdown and keep repair costs to a minimum. These are the warning signs that your heating system is malfunctioning and needs repair service.
Strange Noises
Whether your furnace has extensive wear, loose parts, or other issues, you might notice strange noises. In some cases, they are loud. In other cases, they are muted and may be audible only when your home is quiet. Sounds to pay attention to include squealing, rattling, clanking, gurgling, and banging.
Unusual Smells
Many people notice a burning smell when they turn on their heating system for the first time of the season. This is just dust and debris burning off, and the odor lasts for only a few minutes. If a burning smell persists or if you notice a moldy, musty, or sulfur-like odor, urgent attention from a licensed specialist is needed. If you notice a gas smell, turn the furnace off, and leave home until after the system has been serviced.
Turning On and Off Frequently
When a furnace turns on and off more frequently than usual, this is called short cycling. A heating system short cycles due to issues like a clogged air filter, dirty vents, overheating, or a bad thermostat. If simple fixes like cleaning the vents and replacing the air filter don’t resolve the problem, you need a professional diagnostic and repair service.
Higher Energy Bill
When your heating system isn’t working efficiently, it might run for longer periods or short cycle. Both of these issues cause the system to use more energy than it should, so you’ll undoubtedly notice an increase in energy costs. If your energy bills are higher than usual for no apparent reason, schedule a furnace inspection.
A Yellow Pilot Light
If you have a gas furnace, check the pilot light if you are concerned about a possible issue. The pilot light should burn blue. If it’s yellow, the combustion process isn’t adequate. This can result in a dangerous buildup of carbon monoxide in the home. Remember that carbon monoxide is clear and odorless, so professional testing is necessary if your system has a yellow pilot light.
A malfunctioning heating system can make you uncomfortable on cold days and nights. Worse, it could pose a health and safety risk in some cases. If you’ve spotted any signs of a malfunctioning heating system, call a professional HVAC technician for help. If you live in Salt Lake City, UT or a surrounding area and need emergency heating services, make your first call to Whipple Service Champions.
