As you think about using your furnace for the first time this winter, you might be concerned about whether it’s working as well as it should be. It’s common to be unfamiliar with the signs of a furnace in need of repair, so it can be helpful to learn about how your furnace tells you that it’s in trouble.
First, there are two things that you can do to lower your chances of encountering furnace problems, so before you get cozy and settled for the winter, you should do these tasks.
Regular Maintenance
It is truly essential to have annual maintenance, and the start of the heating season is the best time to schedule it. A well-maintained furnace is more efficient, so you will save money every time your utility bill arrives. You’re also less likely to have problems that require repair throughout the rest of the season once you’ve had your regular maintenance. Your technician will spot any developing problems so they can be addressed before they get worse. Your furnace will even keep you warm much longer than a neglected furnace, because failing to get maintenance means a shorter furnace lifespan. Most importantly, your technician will take steps to prevent safety hazards like fuel leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Filter Changes
While a full scheduled maintenance is generally an annual event, your furnace’s air filter should be changed or cleaned every three months or, in times of heavy use or extra dust, every month. This eliminates the dust and debris and keeps it from clogging the furnace, obstructing airflow, and bogging down motors as they’re trying to run. Clean filters reduce wear and tear and strain on the furnace’s components, making it easier for your furnace to accomplish its job. Your furnace will have a longer lifespan, encounter fewer major repair needs, and continue to operate as efficiently as possible.
Now that you’ve done this basic maintenance, learn how to be alert to the signals your furnace will give if it needs repairs.
Signs that You Need Furnace Repair
- Temperature Inconsistencies: If you experience drops in temperature when you haven’t lowered the thermostat, or the range of temperature seems too wide, reach out for furnace repair in Kerrville, TX. Perhaps recalibrating the thermostat is all that is needed, but there may be a problem with the furnace itself. Your technician can diagnose the issue accurately and get it repaired.
- Temperature Unevenness: If some rooms in your home are very warm and others are much colder, it’s time for repair. There may be a problem with your ductwork or the blower, and a repair can prevent you from having to change into and out of your coat as you go from room to room.
- Strange Noises: Your furnace should only make sounds that are consistent and not very loud. If you hear crashing, clattering, buzzing, or any other loud or sudden noise, take action right away.
- Short Cycling: Your furnace kicks on when the ambient temperature drops to a certain threshold. The cycle continues until your home reaches a higher, cut-off temperature, and then the cycle ends. If there is overheating within the system, such as from a motor burning out, it shuts off without reaching that higher temperature. When the overheating component cools down, it tries again. This is not the only possible cause for short cycling, so a professional must assess the situation to get to the root of the problem.
Contact D’Spain Sales & Service to schedule furnace maintenance or repair.
