As the weather turns chilly and the evenings get longer, you know it's time to turn on the heat. But what happens when your furnace isn't working like it used to? How do you know when it needs to be repaired or replaced? Read on for four telltale signs that your furnace is in need of some TLC.
Your energy bills are higher than usual.
If you've noticed a spike in your heating costs, it could be due to an inefficient furnace. Older furnaces are less energy-efficient than newer models, so if your furnace is more than 15 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. Also, be sure to check for leaks around doors and windows—that cold air can make your furnace work harder (and drive up your energy bill).
The furnace is making strange noises.
Is your furnace noisy? If it's constantly creaking, banging, or rattling, it's definitely time for a repair. These noises are usually caused by loose parts or damaged components, and they'll only get worse over time. Left unchecked, they could ultimately lead to a complete system breakdown. So if you're hearing strange noises coming from your furnace, don't ignore them! Schedule a repair as soon as possible.
The furnace isn't heating evenly.
If some rooms in your home are too hot while others are too cold, it's a sign that your furnace isn't working properly. Uneven heating can also be caused by closed vents or dirty air filters—two easy things to check (and fix) yourself. However, if those aren't the issue, then you'll need to call in a professional for help.
The pilot light is yellow (or nonexistent).
A healthy pilot light should be blue with a small yellow tip—if yours is mostly yellow (or has gone out completely), it indicates that there's too much gas flowing to the burner. This can create dangerous conditions, so if you see this happen, shut off the gas immediately and call a professional HVAC technician right away. Do not try to fix the problem yourself!
Of course, preventative maintenance is always the best way to keep your furnace running smoothly all winter long—but even with regular tune-ups, furnaces will eventually need to be repaired or replaced. By being aware of these four signs that something is wrong with your furnace, you can avoid being left in the cold this winter! If you're ever unsure about whether or not you need a furnace repair or replacement, though, don't hesitate to call in a professional HVAC technician for help. They'll be able to diagnose the problem quickly and tell you exactly what needs to be done to get your furnace running again—so you can relax and enjoy peace of mind all winter long.
