There are numerous signs you need heating repair sooner rather than later. If it’s too late, your furnace or heat pump may have irreparable damage and have to be replaced. You may be without heating for some time before a technician can reach your home. Some heater problems can result in fires, gas leaks, and carbon monoxide exposure. Therefore, don’t wait if you notice these signs that indicate you need furnace repair.
There’s Not Enough Heat
If you keep turning up the heat yet you’re shivering, your furnace may not be working right. Air from the vents should be noticeably warm. If it’s lukewarm or blowing cold, call for help. However, the problem may not be obvious everywhere. A malfunctioning furnace can cause some spots to be cold; uneven heating, in which some areas may be too warm and others not enough, means a professional should check the system.
Your Heater Doesn’t Sound Right
A squeaking sound can mean your heater has a loose bearing or worn belt. If the unit is rattling, loose screws or unsecured parts or ducts may be causing vibration. Thumping indicates a more serious ignition problem. Other troublesome noises include whistling, banging, or rumbling, which can mean your furnace is in imminent danger of failing.
The Pilot Light Turns Yellow
If your furnace has a pilot light, it should always be blue. A yellow, orange, red, purple, or green flame can indicate carbon monoxide is leaking or soot, tar, or rust is affecting combustion. Consider the issue an emergency and call a heating repair contractor right away.
The Carbon Monoxide Alarm Sounds
Your carbon monoxide alarm is a reliable device and is legally required for a good reason. It alerts everyone in your household that this dangerous gas is present. Since it’s colorless and odorless, carbon monoxide is not detectable. However, in high concentrations, it can be deadly. If the alarm goes off, evacuate your home and call emergency responders and your HVAC company.
Something Doesn’t Smell Right
While there are dangers you can’t smell, a burning odor can mean your heater has mechanical or electrical damage. This often smells like plastic or rubber is burning. Dust or debris can also have a strange odor. Your furnace may release a smell the first time you turn it on for the season. If this persists for more than a few hours or happens every time the unit runs, or changing the filter doesn’t help, call for heating repair.
Water Leaks from the Furnace
A water leak can have many sources. Common reasons for a furnace to leak include condensation, which may originate from a clogged or broken condensate drain line. The internal drain system may be damaged. Or, a furnace with a humidifier can develop issues that cause water to leak. Left unchecked, it can lead to issues such as mold or water damage to your furnace and home.
The Electric Bill Rises Sharply and Unexpectedly
A poorly performing heating system will use more energy, causing your electric bill to spike. Utility companies sometimes raise rates but typically do so gradually and with advance notice. If your utility bill rises dramatically or steadily from month to month, your furnace may be running inefficiently. Have a professional evaluate it to determine whether to fix or replace the unit.
Declining Indoor Air Quality
A problem with your heating system can have a direct impact on indoor air quality. Your home may become dustier or the air may appear hazy. It’s not uncommon for a furnace issue to contribute to increased allergy symptoms, asthma attacks, and other respiratory problems. Particulates and mildew may become more common. The first step should be to replace the filter. If this doesn’t resolve air quality issues, call your local heating contractor.
The Furnace Doesn’t Start
A dirty filter, coil, or flame sensor can cause the heater to turn off. These are easy to fix, but if you’re restarting your furnace several times a day, there may be a more serious problem. A professional should look at it and perform any necessary repairs to get the unit working again.
Contact Air Stars
Our furnace and heating repair technicians can work with any make or model. They diagnose problems quickly and fix your heating system in no time. If you live in Keizer, Salem, or surrounding areas and experience any of the signs described above, call Air Stars at (503) 304-1320 or request a heating repair online.
