Cold temperatures are just around the corner, and the last thing you want to experience is to have a malfunctioning furnace in your home. Your furnace is a crucial component in keeping your home warm and comfortable during the cold seasons, so it’s essential to ensure it’s functioning optimally. However, determining whether your furnace is malfunctioning or not can be tricky. This article highlights the top 7 signs that will tell you whether it’s time for a furnace repair or replacement.
Strange Noises
A well-functioning furnace should run smoothly and produce the same sounds every time it operates. Therefore, if you hear strange or unusual noises coming from your furnace, it’s a sign that it is malfunctioning. Squealing, hissing, and grinding noises indicate that some components of your furnace are not working correctly, and you need to contact a heating and cooling professional.
Uneven Heating
It’s not normal for some rooms in your home to be comfortably warm while others are chilly or cold. If you have a malfunctioning furnace, it will struggle to maintain consistent heating throughout your home. Also, uneven heating may indicate a failing thermostat, clogged filters, or faulty ductwork. An experienced heating technician can help you diagnose the problem and find a lasting solution.
Higher Energy Bills
A malfunctioning furnace works harder to warm your home, which translates to increased energy usage and higher energy bills. If you notice a significant rise in your heating bills without any plausible explanation, you may need to inspect your furnace. A professional technician can assess your furnace, identify the underlying issues, and recommend the best furnace repair or replacement options.
Yellow Burner Flames
When your furnace is working correctly, the flame color should be blue. However, if the flame turns yellow, it’s an indicator that the furnace is releasing dangerous carbon monoxide gas. Carbon monoxide gas can cause nausea, headaches, dizziness, and in severe cases, death. You should not ignore this sign and immediately call in a qualified technician to repair or replace your furnace.
Weird Noises
A furnace can make noises such as whistling, rumbling, grinding, or rattling when it’s nearing its breaking point. These strange sounds indicate that there’s something wrong with your furnace’s mechanical parts, such as the blower motor, belt, or bearings. Scheduling regular furnace maintenance can prevent these issues from occurring.
Constant Repairs Needed
If you find yourself calling an HVAC company frequently to repair your furnace, it’s time to consider a replacement. A trustworthy HVAC company will try their best to repair your furnace to avoid having to replace it since it’s more cost-effective. However, if regular repairs become necessary, you should consider buying a new furnace to prevent further damage and improve your household’s safety.
Age of Your Furnace
Most furnaces have a lifespan of between 15 and 20 years. If you’ve had your furnace for more than 15 years, you might want to consider replacing it. Older furnaces are often less efficient, leading to increased energy consumption and higher energy costs. Additionally, old furnaces have high chances of breakdowns and require frequent repairs. Investing in a new, efficient furnace will save you money in the long run, reduce wear and tear on your system, and ensure your family’s safety.
Your furnace’s overall health and performance are essential to keep your home warm and safe during the winter. Pay attention to the signs that tell you that your furnace is malfunctioning, such as strange noises, uneven heating, higher energy bills, yellow burner flames, and the age of your furnace. If you notice these signs, contact a reliable heating and cooling contractor to help diagnose the problem and determine whether you need a furnace repair or replacement. With a properly functioning furnace, you can enjoy a comfortable and cozy home throughout the winter months.
