My husband and I have spent a lot of time consulting with an architect. After living in our cramped, starter home for the past 11 years, we were finally ready to make some needed changes to it. We have added an extra 600 square feet of space onto our house. Before the construction began, we finalized the plans for our new heating and air conditioning unit with our HVAC contractor. Because our home was going to be substantially bigger than it is now, we purchased a larger HVAC system. We also installed a new, digital thermostat inside my home. On this blog, I hope you will discover the best types of HVAC units to buy for mid-size homes. Enjoy!
Many homeowners find solace in the gentle hum of their furnace during chilly evenings. However, like all appliances, a residential furnace isn't exempt from wear and tear. Recognizing its distress signals can prevent unforeseen malfunctions and hefty furnace repair costs. So, what should homeowners be alert to? This guide dives into the unmistakable signs indicating a furnace might need attention.
1. Unusual Noises
While most furnaces maintain a consistent sound during operation, abrupt clangs, bangs, or a high-pitched whirring could spell trouble. Think of it akin to a car engine: a smooth hum is expected, but if the furnace starts sounding like it's part of a percussion band, it might be time to consider a residential furnace repair due to issues like a loose belt or a faltering ignition.
2. Rising Energy Bills
Has there been a noticeable increase in heating bills without an apparent change in usage? An underperforming furnace often struggles, resulting in elevated energy consumption and costs. Keeping a monthly log of energy bills can be insightful. A sudden spike, especially during seasons of heightened furnace usage, might hint at inefficiencies.
3. Uneven Heating
A well-functioning furnace should distribute heat uniformly across a home. However, significant temperature discrepancies between rooms suggest potential issues. Imagine needing summer attire in the living room while requiring a woolly blanket in the bedroom; this vast temperature disparity might be due to airflow obstructions or thermostat misalignments.
4. Yellow Flame Instead of Blue
The color of a furnace's flame can provide valuable insights. A bright blue flame is optimal. However, a persistent yellow or flickering flame could signify incomplete combustion, potentially releasing hazardous gases such as carbon monoxide.
Safety Alert: Carbon monoxide poses a silent and odorless threat. Observing a non-blue flame means it's crucial to consult a professional immediately. Safety should always be a priority.
5. Frequent Cycling
A furnace that consistently toggles between "On" and "Off" modes isn't displaying typical behavior. Erratic cycling might indicate issues with the thermostat or an internal component's malfunction. Monitoring the furnace's cycling patterns and noting an increase in its switching frequency is a clear sign that a furnace repair might be needed.
6. Accumulation of Dust and Dry Air
A top-performing furnace not only warms a home but also purifies and humidifies the air. If the indoor air feels noticeably dusty or dry, it could be an indication of the furnace's diminished capacity. For instance, indoor plants wilting faster than usual or increased reliance on moisturizers due to dry skin might signal a drop in furnace efficiency.
7. Age of the Furnace
Furnaces typically have a lifespan of around 15-20 years. As they age, efficiency can wane, culminating in more regular issues. Keeping track of the furnace's installation or purchase date can be beneficial. Furnaces nearing or surpassing the 15-year threshold might benefit from routine maintenance checks.
In Conclusion: Ensuring a Warm and Safe Home
A residential furnace in need of care communicates in subtle ways. When in doubt, it's always best to invest in furnace repair from a trusted company. By heeding these signs and responding proactively, homeowners can ensure a comfortable, safe, and efficient living space.
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