Heating systems are more prone to breakdowns in the winter. Learn how to avoid these costly repairs by keeping up with critical maintenance tips.

If a carbon monoxide detector goes off, turn off your furnace and get everyone out of the house immediately. A cracked heat exchanger could release carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas that causes flu-like symptoms and can kill people. Keep reading the article below to learn more about Heating Repair.

A furnace is an essential component of many homes. These forced warm-air systems keep residents comfortable and cozy during cold winter weather. While they are highly reliable, it is not uncommon for issues to arise that require heating repair. The longer a problem goes unattended, the more damage can be done to the system, resulting in higher utility bills, insufficient heating, and even safety hazards.

Inconsistent heating is a top indicator that it’s time to call for repairs. This could include cold or hot spots throughout the home, odd noises like banging or whistling, or a sudden increase or spike in energy bills. It’s important to note that these issues should not be ignored, as the problems will only get worse and potentially lead to a breakdown of the entire system.

Another sign that it’s time for a heater repair is an inability to turn on. A common cause of this is a blower fan that won’t start working when the furnace or heat pump turns on. It may also be caused by an electrical or wiring issue that requires a professional inspection.

If your heating system is constantly shutting off and on, it could be due to a dirty air filter or clogged ductwork that restricts airflow. These problems can lead to overheating and, in some cases, cracking the heat exchanger. This is a serious issue and should never be ignored, as carbon monoxide (a colorless, odorless gas) can leak from the cracked unit and put your family in danger.

Another common issue is an insufficient supply of return air vents. This can be caused by furniture, cubicle walls, drapes, or other impediments that block the airflow. HVAC professionals can install new vents to help resolve the issue. It is also important to regularly replace air filters to ensure that the furnace has adequate airflow.

High Energy Bills

Are your energy bills skyrocketing and you’re not sure why? Inflation, regional utility price hikes, and climate change are all factors in rising energy rates. But what’s more likely is that your HVAC system is not functioning properly. A malfunctioning heater consumes more energy, resulting in higher electricity bills. Ignoring warning signs like strange noises and inconsistencies in home temperatures can cause problems that are costly to repair.

Unusually high utility bills can be caused by a variety of issues, from damaged components to an inefficient system. The best way to reduce your energy bill is to make small changes around the house, such as limiting appliance usage during peak hours and keeping up with regular preventive maintenance.

One easy thing you can do is to make sure your heater is not running inefficiently. Dirty air filters, clogged vents and registers, and closed window coverings can make your system work harder than it needs to. Clean the filter and open window coverings to let in natural sunlight during the day to warm up your home naturally. Be sure to keep rugs and furniture away from vents and registers as they can block airflow.

Drafty windows and doors are another common culprit in high energy bills. Caulking and weatherstripping can help seal leaks around baseboards, windows, and doors. Consider installing door sweeps and window gaskets as well.

You can also take steps to lower your energy bill by setting the thermostat to 68 degrees and using appliances only during the cheapest time of day. Many utilities also offer deferred payment plans to help families manage their energy bills during times of financial hardship.

Ignoring the warning signs of a faulty heating system can lead to expensive repairs and insufficient heat throughout your Berks County home. If you have any questions about the condition of your system, call a professional heating technician for advice and repair services. With the right knowledge, you can keep your furnace working at optimal efficiency and save money on your energy bills all year round.

Loud Noises

Heaters are mechanical pieces of equipment, and they’re going to make noises at times. That said, strange or disruptive sounds from your furnace usually signal a bigger problem that needs immediate attention. For example, if you hear loud booming or banging noises when the system is running, it’s an early indication that your air ducts are restricted and need to be cleaned. It could also mean that your air filter is dirty or some of your vents are closed, which are simple fixes.

Clicking noises when the system is running or turning off usually indicate that relay switches are clicking as they try to turn on and off. This can cause problems like a burning smell from your burner or a blown fuse in the circuit breaker box. It can also signal a more serious mechanical issue, such as loose or worn parts that need to be replaced.

Another type of sound you might hear from your heating system is a low rumble when it starts up and shuts down. This is normal, but if the rumble is louder or lasts longer than usual, it can signify a gas leak. It’s important to have this fixed as soon as possible to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning or a fire.

Other common heater noises include rattling, whistling, and thwapping sounds. A rattling sound may be a sign that you have an obstruction in your blower motor fan or the blower itself. A whistling sound typically means the system has a clogged air filter, which can be corrected by changing it.

Getting routine maintenance on your system can help prevent these problems, as well as many others that can lead to expensive breakdowns and energy bills. Contact us to learn more about our Family Value Plan, a budget-friendly way for homeowners to protect their homes with annual heating, AC, and plumbing inspections and tune-ups! You’ll get priority service, discounts, and extended warranties as part of the plan. You can sign up for the plan today.

Strange Smells

A strange smell coming from your heating system is a sign that it’s time to call for repair services. The odors could be a sign of serious problems or they may simply indicate that it’s time to change the air filter. The smells you may encounter might include a burning electrical odor, which is dangerous for you and your family to inhale. This odor can occur from overheated motors, frayed wiring or a cracked heat exchanger.

The burning smell usually occurs when you turn on your heater after a long period of disuse. The dust that has collected in your furnace and ducts burns off when you activate the unit, releasing the odor into your home through the air vents. This odor should disappear relatively quickly, but if it continues, you should turn off your heater and schedule a professional inspection right away.

Another smell that is a warning sign of heater trouble is one that resembles mildew or mold. It indicates that your heating system has bacteria, which can be a health hazard for people with respiratory conditions like asthma and allergies. You should turn off your system immediately if you notice this smell, and hire a professional HVAC technician to inspect and clean your heater and ducts.

Lastly, a strong odor that is reminiscent of rotten eggs or sulfur is a clear indication that you have a gas leak in your heating system. Natural gas contains an additive called mercaptan, which is added to it to help you detect leaks. This odor is very unpleasant and can cause nausea, dizziness, headaches and other symptoms. If you notice this smell, shut off your system immediately and evacuate your home. Call your local gas company to notify them of the leak and request emergency service for your heating system.

If you hear odd sounds from your ductwork, such as rattling, booming or pinging, this is also a sign of a problem with your heater. It might be an early warning signal that your blower motor is going bad, or it could be a sign of a cracked heat exchanger. Ignoring such problems can lead to more costly repairs or even a system replacement.

Tags: ac repair, heat pump installation, heat pump repair, heating repair, hvac maintenance plan