The last thing you want to do this winter is sit around wondering if your heater is going to break down at any moment. The good news is, unless you have never had your system professionally tuned up and don’t know any of the signs that your furnace is in disrepair, this likely won’t ever happen.
Oh, what’s that? You don’t know what signs to look out for? That’s okay, that’s what we’re here for!
We want to start by saying that T-word again–tune-up. Also called maintenance, this service is the best way to defend your system against heavy repair needs. Whether you’re utilizing an electric furnace or a gas-powered one, you should have professional maintenance done annually. This helps the furnace function as effectively and efficiently as possible for as long as possible. Plus, maintenance can help you avoid up to 85% of the repairs that a furnace might ever need!
Of course, there’s still that 15%–at some point your furnace will need repair, and so without further ado, here are some signs that it’s time for you to call us for just that:
Loud/Unfamiliar Sounds
It can sometimes be difficult to spot heating system problems if they don’t actually get in the way of your comfort right away. A strange noise from the cabinet of the furnace may be something you just brush off. If it’s not really impacting the air coming through your vents, should you bother addressing it?
Well, yes, because it can be the sign of something that will eventually grow into a much bigger problem. For example, a buzzing noise can be the sign of something amiss with the electrical connections of the furnace (which even a gas furnace has), leading to a potential fire hazard. A screeching sound can be the sign that your motor is about to burn out.
Higher Than Average Utility Bills
We get it, you probably think your utility bills are too high anyway. But what we want you to pay attention to is your current energy bills in comparison to those bills last year. If they’re significantly higher, then it’s a sign that something in your home is working inefficiently, and it could very well be your furnace.
After all, your HVAC systems make up about half of all your home’s energy use!
Lack of Heat
Does it seem harder and harder to get your thermostat up high enough to stay warm? Something such as damaged air ducts, or even a dirty furnace system can prevent your heater from actually reaching the temperature setting on your thermostat.
Short-Cycling
Short-cycling is the process where a heater turns on and shuts off rapidly, never completing a full heating cycle. Furnaces are designed to cycle in 15-minute increments, 2-3 times an hour. If your furnace is cycling on and off more than this, it’s not only the symptom of a problem but it can cause further problems–so give us a call ASAP!
For professional and reliable furnace repair in Lubbock, TX, contact JD’s Prompt Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning.