Your home’s furnace is one of the most essential appliances for beating the winter chill. As winter approaches, you want to ensure your furnace is in good working order. A faulty furnace can make your home uncomfortable, lead to increased energy bills, and even a complete breakdown. This blog post will examine some tell-tale signs that your furnace may be faulty, what you can do to fix it, and when to call for an emergency furnace repair.
Unusual Noises
Your furnace is designed to operate quietly, so if you hear strange and loud noises like banging, screeching, or whistling sounds, it’s a clear sign of a fault. These sounds could indicate various issues like a malfunctioning fan, belt, or burner. Have a professional inspect the furnace to identify the cause and recommend suitable repair or replacement.
Yellow Burner Flame
A yellow furnace flame is another tell-tale sign of something wrong. Ideally, the flame should be blue, indicating that it’s burning clean fuel. A yellow flame, on the other hand, is a sign of carbon monoxide production, which is usually due to incomplete combustion. Check your furnace’s ventilation or pump up the pressure if you spot a yellow flame. If the problem persists, engage a professional to assess and rectify it before it puts your life in danger.
Reduced Heat or Airflow
If you notice reduced heat in your home or weaker airflow through the vents, it could be due to faulty ductwork or filters. These clog the hot air flow and cause the furnace to overheat or break completely. Regularly changing the furnace filter and cleaning the ductwork can help prevent this issue.
Increased Energy Bills
Increased energy usage is another sign of a faulty furnace. If you notice your energy bills skyrocketing, although you’re not using more heat than usual, it could be due to inefficiencies or faults in the furnace system. Poor thermostat function or leaks in the ductwork are some of the common reasons for high energy consumption. Call a professional to examine your furnace and identify the best solution to fix the problem.
Age of the Furnace
The age of your furnace is another crucial factor in identifying faults. Most furnaces have a lifespan of up to 15 years, after which they begin to fail due to wear and tear. If your furnace is approaching or has exceeded this threshold, it’s time to be serviced and replaced. An expert will advise you on the best replacement options to avoid inconveniences during the cold winter season.
A faulty furnace can not only be uncomfortable, but it can also pose serious hazards to your family. It’s, therefore, crucial to keep an eye out for signs of malfunction and have your furnace serviced occasionally. You can avoid unexpected damages and costs by identifying and fixing the problem early. Don’t hesitate to call in the experts if you notice any signs of a faulty furnace.
