Signs Your Furnace Needs Repair Before Winter
Kentucky winters are often unpredictable, bringing harsh weather like snowstorms and ice. Homeowners in Kentucky should be on the lookout for signs their furnace needs repair to prepare for the winter season. It’s always better to catch furnace problems early to ensure comfort and prevent costly repairs. That’s why it’s so important to know the warning signs.
We’ll share the top seven signs your furnace needs repair so that you’re well-informed of when you need professional inspection. Read on for a comprehensive guide to signs you need furnace maintenance in Kentucky.
Top 7 Signs Your Furnace Needs Repair
1. Strange Noises Coming from Your Furnace
Strange noises are almost always a sign for concern. This is also true for furnaces. If you hear banging, rattling, or squealing, you may have loose or failing components. Banging sometimes indicates ignition issues; while squealing or whistling can mean restricted airflow. For serious noises, such as rattling near the heat exchanger, turn off your furnace and call a professional as soon as possible.
2. Weak or Uneven Airflow
Another common sign it’s time for a furnace repair is weak or uneven airflow. Inconsistent heating between rooms can indicate blower motor or ductwork issues. Not to mention, it’s inconvenient. A professional can identify where the root issue lies and restore airflow to your furnace. Furnace technicians are experts at heating system troubleshooting and can resolve issues quickly to maintain comfort.
3. Rising Energy Bills Without Increased Use
If you notice your energy costs rising without increased use of your furnace, it means your furnace is working harder than necessary. This inefficiency happens when furnace parts become worn or there are dirty filters. To resolve rising energy bills and promote higher efficiency, work with a professional to replace any worn components that may be hindering performance.
4. Furnace Constantly Cycling On and Off
A furnace that constantly cycles on and off, known as “short cycling,” can be due to system strain or a possible thermostat malfunction. Thermostats with old wiring, dead batteries, or improper placement can cause short cycling. Also, restricted airflow from dirty filters or blocked vents can cause the heat exchanger to overheat and trigger the safety limit switch.
5. Yellow or Flickering Pilot Light (Gas Furnaces)
For gas furnaces, a yellow or flickering pilot light indicates incomplete combustion, a potential safety hazard. It can mean there’s a carbon monoxide risk and should be taken seriously. Call a professional to address a yellow or flickering pilot light promptly. It can be caused by dust and debris blocking the assembly, drafts, a dirty pilot orifice, or issues with the gas pressure or main control valve.
6. Strange Odors or Poor Air Quality
Musty odors, burning smells, or excessive dust are all signs of issues with your furnace. These strange odors may signal electrical issues, mold, or dirty filters. Unusual smells can be caused by issues ranging from dust accumulation to a gas leak. If you smell rotten eggs or sulfur, immediately turn off the furnace and gas supply and call a professional. These specific smells warn of a dangerous gas leak.
7. Age of Furnace and Frequent Repairs
If your furnace is over 15-20 years old, it’s more prone to breakdowns and mechanical issues. Homeowners should weigh repair costs vs. replacement to determine when it’s time to upgrade their system. Frequently costly repairs can be a hassle, and a new furnace can alleviate these untimely costs. Work with a professional to decide if the investment of a new furnace is worth the upfront cost.
Why Timely Furnace Repair Saves Money and Stress
Kentucky homeowners should always get a furnace inspection before winter to prepare the system for increased use. Timely furnace repair and inspection prevent mid-winter breakdowns, which can be extremely uncomfortable in cold temperatures. Investing in Kentucky heating services saves you from costly emergency furnace repairs in the middle of winter. Preventative maintenance services help avoid future breakdowns and keep you comfortable all season long.
Additionally, knowing the signs your furnace needs repair helps increase efficiency, therefore lowering utility bills. When your furnace is performing optimally, your utility bills will be lower, allowing you to save money. Improve efficiency by replacing filters regularly and calling a professional furnace repair service like Dauenhauer.
Lastly, repairing your furnace improves comfort and safety. In Kentucky’s cold winter climate, it’s crucial to have a furnace in good operation. Working with local professionals ensures that your furnace is up and running for the colder months of the year.
Dauenhauer Furnace Repair Services
Dauenhauer is the local expert in Louisville, Lexington, Elizabethtown, and Shelbyville. We provide heating system repair and replacement services to local homeowners in Kentucky.
Our 24/7 emergency furnace repair services ensure that you remain safe and comfortable in your home.
Our preventative maintenance services are designed to help you avoid costly breakdowns and keep your home adequately heated during the fall and winter. Trust the experts for Kentucky furnace maintenance.
Call Dauenhauer for Furnace Repair in Kentucky
Knowing the warning signs of strange noises or odors, short cycling, rising utility costs, uneven air flow, a flickering pilot light, and frequent breakdowns prepares you to make the call for furnace repair. These signs should not be ignored and should be addressed by professionals. Professional furnace repair ensures safe, efficient heating.
Don’t wait for a cold night to find out your furnace isn’t working. Contact Dauenhauer today for expert furnace repair and maintenance in Louisville, Lexington, Elizabethtown, and Shelbyville.
