Common problems your furnace might run into
Keeping a furnace up and running through winter temperatures is a necessity for homeowners in the Midwest. Making sure the heat is ready and available as the weather outside becomes frightful not only keeps a home comfortable but ends up saving a significant amount of money in costly emergency repairs. Before the real cold winds start to blow through, keep an eye out for these common problems that a furnace might start showing, as they are the first signs it’s time to call a professional to take a closer look at a home’s furnace.
Odd Noises
HVAC systems produce a number of noises, particularly when they start up and power down. Getting used to the mechanical clicks takes time, but any sudden squeaking, popping, or screeching is a cause for concern for homeowners. Sounds of this nature tend to mean that either something within the system has come loose or dislodged, or something within the system has broken down, causing the furnace to come to an abrupt halt. Identifying the exact cause can be tricky for a homeowner on their own, so contacting a professional is the best course of action.
A Cold Wind Blows
The purpose of a furnace, of course, is to circulate hot air, so naturally, if the furnace is producing cold air, this is a sign that something is amiss. What, exactly, can be somewhat tricky to diagnose? If the furnace’s blower fan motor is malfunctioning, then the furnace will struggle trying to circulate enough warm air throughout the home, leading to cold spots. If the furnace is producing no hot air whatsoever, then the likely culprit is the heat exchanger or pilot light, both of which will require the expertise of a certified technician to truly remedy.
Odors and Smells
Overall, though they move air throughout the house, furnaces are not known for being particularly smelly pieces of equipment. If homeowners start to smell something burning or oily, it’s time to call in the experts, and if the smell of sulfur/rotten eggs, rust, or excessive amounts of moisture is in the air, it’s time to shut down the unit immediately. These are signs that there is a carbon monoxide leak, which poses a very real, serious health issue, and should be addressed immediately by a professional. Letting a carbon monoxide leak go unchecked can be immediately deadly, and is not something to overlook or ignore.
Avoiding a full emergency furnace replacement should be a top priority, especially during the colder months. If any of these warning signs hit particularly close to home, there is a good chance that your furnace needs either repairs or to be replaced outright. Should you encounter any of these common issues firsthand, and you’re unsure of the next steps to take, consider reaching out to the licensed professionals at Duane Blanton Family Home Services. With over 30 years of experience, the experts at Duane Blanton are prepared to tackle any potential furnace issues. Give the professionals of Duane Blanton Family Home Services a call today at (815) 781-2567, or reach out online using the online scheduling portal!
