Sunny Windows, Shady Trees and Other Non-Electrical Supports to HVAC

Utilizing a furnace in a house or a place of business can make the place more comfortable, but long-term maintenance is critical to its safe and efficient operation. If you're wondering if it might be time to talk with a furnace service technician, these four indications of problems are worth watching out for.

Unusual Smells

Odd smells coming from a furnace are often a sign that something is wrong, usually with the motor. In some cases, it may be the product of the ducts being dirty, but it's a good idea to check the system itself if it has been a few years since it was serviced. If you're detecting even a faint smell of natural gas, you should immediately contact a technician. Should the smell of gas be particularly strong, leave the house at once and contact a furnace services firm that provides emergency help.

Notably, you should not be too alarmed by odd, non-gas odors the first couple times a furnace comes on after it has been off for more than a month. It's normal, especially during the first cold night of the fall, for residual dust in the ducts and vents to get blown around. This smell should clear out without a day or two.

Loud Thumps

Among the worst signs of trouble with a furnace is a thumping sound when it turns on. This is almost always the product of a poor ignition system or dirty burners. What is happening is that the chamber where the gas is burned has to fill to excessive capacity before it will ignite, leading to the thumping sound when it does light. Speak with a furnace repair professional as soon as possible if this is occurring.

Poor Heat or High Bills

If you're noticing that less heat than expected is being blown, there's a good chance the efficiency of the system is in significant decline. In some cases, folks may instead notice that their gas bills have gone up without an obvious reason during an especially cold month. There is the possibility that the burners just need to be cleaned, but there's the risk that other repairs may be in order.

Persistent Clunking or Squealing Sounds

The blower motor in most furnaces has a cage that can get loose over time. Most folks notice this problem when their furnace begins to making clunks or squeals when the blow runs.

For assistance repairing your furnace, contact a local company like Barnetts Heating & Air Conditioning.