7 Signs Your Furnace Needs Serviced

Getting your home heating system serviced regularly should be an important part of any homeowner’s maintenance plan. Not only will regular servicing help keep the heating system running at peak efficiency, but it can also save you money and time in the long run. Below are the top 7 signs that your furnace needs to be serviced sooner rather than later.

Difficulty Starting The Unit

When your furnace is difficult to start or needs restarting throughout the day, it may be a sign that your heating system needs to be serviced. This could indicate disconnected wiring or damaged thermostats, both of which can require replacement parts. An experienced technician should be able to quickly assess the problem and determine what repairs are necessary to restore your furnace to full operational capacity. Regular servicing can help prevent such issues from arising in the first place and keep your heating system running efficiently for years to come. 

Discolored Pilot Light

Pay attention to the color of your pilot light. A healthy pilot light should appear blue. If it is a different color, especially yellow, this could indicate a ventilation problem and potential health hazard as certain gases such as carbon monoxide do not dissipate as they should. It can also make your unit more combustible if not addressed right away . An experienced technician should be able to assess the problem and make any necessary repairs quickly and efficiently. Regular servicing can help prevent such issues from occurring in the first place and keep your heating system running optimally. 

Abnormal Furnace Smells

Furnaces may emit a faint smell of fuel when they turn on for the first time in a year, which is normal. However, if you notice an intense fuel odor near the unit, one that appears suddenly or does not diminish over time, it could be indicative of a furnace problem. These smells can result from something as minor as a build-up of dust inside the unit or a more serious issue such as a gas leak. If you detect any abnormal furnace smells, it is best to have an HVAC professional assess the situation and determine its cause. Regular servicing can help diagnose these issues before they become more serious and potentially hazardous.

Persistent Noises

No furnace is ever truly silent but loud and persistent noises can indicate a serious issue. If you notice your furnace making strange sounds such as squealing, whistling, banging or groaning, it could be indicative of belt or fan issues or broken and loose internal components. Be sure to describe any abnormal sounds you hear to your HVAC No furnace is silent, but loud and persistent noises can indicate a serious problem. Pay attention to the sounds you hear and, if possible, describe them to your HVAC contractor when he or she inspects the system. Squealing and whistling noises may come from belt or fan issues while banging or groaning can result from broken and loose internal components.

Inadequate Heat

A furnace that is not providing the necessary level of heat is a clear sign that repairs are needed. This typically results from leaking ductwork, which lets treated air escape, or faulty thermostats that do not communicate with the unit effectively. Have your HVAC contractor inspect and repair your furnace to ensure it works as intended and provides adequate heating . Scheduling regular servicing can help you avoid this issue in the future.

Poor Air Quality

If you notice that the air quality in your home is deteriorating, it could be due to a problem with your furnace system. Dust, bacteria and other foreign particles may be circulated throughout the house along with heated air. Allergy-sufferers might experience symptoms such as itchiness, watery eyes or headaches, while others may suffer from frequent coughs, colds and other respiratory ailments. In some cases, changing the filter can help resolve the issue, but in more serious situations professional cleaning of the ductwork and unit may be necessary. Scheduling regular servicing for your heating system can help to ensure air quality is not compromised.

Tripped Carbon Monoxide Detector

If your carbon monoxide detector trips, turn off your furnace immediately and open the windows for ventilation. Contact your gas company and a professional HVAC contractor to investigate the source of toxic gases present in your home. Don’t put off repairs if you observe any of the warning signs mentioned above; get an inspection as soon as possible.

Maintaining your home heating system by scheduling regular servicing is essential for avoiding costly repairs and ensuring a safe, healthy and comfortable environment. In addition to helping to identify potential problems before they become serious, it can also help keep your furnace running efficiently for years to come. If you notice any of the warning signs mentioned above or suspect that something is wrong with your furnace, contact AJM HVAC to inspect the unit and determine what repairs or servicing is necessary. Doing so will help ensure you have a safe and comfortable environment in your home for many years to come.