Furnace issues can run the gamut from something as simple as an unusual noise to something as problematic as short cycling. Having a reliable heating system is essential when temperatures drop. That’s why as a homeowner, it’s important to know the signs that you need furnace repair. Let’s go over 5 signs that warrant a call for an appointment.
#1 Short Cycling
Short cycling is not only frustrating, but it has the potential to become a major, costly expense if it’s left unchecked. Short cycling occurs when the furnace turns on for a short period of time but then turns itself off before it completes the heating cycle. This start-and-stop cycle obviously will keep the furnace from heating your home sufficiently. You’ll notice that the thermostat isn’t budging.
Not only that, but short cycling is incredibly hard on a furnace. That’s because the start-up phase uses the most energy. The constant wear and tear of short cycling will lead to a short-lived furnace. Call us to schedule a prompt repair for a short-cycing furnace.
#2 More Than One Repair Per Year
When you have an older furnace, needing more than one repair in a year is a sign that a furnace is on its way out. Think about how many repairs you’ve had over the last couple of years and consider how much these repairs have cost. If the expense of maintaining your current furnace is only going up, it could be time to cut your losses and consider an upgrade.
#3 Weird Noises
A furnace that’s operating as it should is one that’ll make very little noise. The only sounds you should hear are when it turns on and off and the sound of air coming out of the vents.
Unusual noises such as squealing, screeching, hissing, and grinding are signs that something is wrong. A noisy furnace will not only be unable to heat your home, but it could also become a safety hazard. It’s essential to get any unusual sounds checked out sooner rather than later.
#4 Strange Smells
When you turn your furnace on for the first time after not using it for a while, the smell of dust is normal. But any other continuous odd smells are cause for concern. The continued smell of burned dust or the acrid scent of burning parts indicates an issue with the electrical system.
If you have a gas furnace, the smell of gas, rotten eggs, or formaldehyde should be checked out immediately. You’re smelling the additive that gas companies add to natural gas so that homeowners can detect that there’s a problem. There’s a potential gas leak and you should turn off your furnace and call for immediate repair.
#5 Yellow Pilot Light
The pilot light in your furnace should be a steady blue color. If your furnace’s pilot light is yellow or orange, or if it’s flickering, you should shut the furnace down and call us immediately to schedule service.
Hometown Heating and Air Conditioning is your trusted resource for furnace repair in Concord, CA. Reach out to us today! Your comfort is our business.