It would be easier if necessary repairs were obvious, but you’d be surprised by how many homeowners we see on a regular basis who have a heating system that should have been repaired months ago. Most people delay calling a professional because they assume some red flags are normal. Here are some tips for all homeowners, especially new ones, to recognize when their heater might need some extra attention.

• Furnace Smells: This is a huge red flag. Unless you’re turning on your furnace for the first time this year, you really shouldn’t be smelling any foul odors coming from your heater. If you notice the smell of gas or a different foul odor around your heater, then you should shut it down and call a professional for repairs immediately. This is because you could be dealing with a cracked heat exchanger and a gas leak, which is not only a waste of fuel, but also dangerous for you and your family as well.
• No Heat: When you pay your heating bill, you’re paying for heat to come from your air vents and keep you comfortable in your home. So, what exactly are you paying for if your heater starts expelling cold or lukewarm air into your rooms that just aren’t warm enough? A heater that can’t produce enough heat is dealing with a serious problem that needs to be addressed. Don’t get caught believing that this is normal, even if it produces lukewarm air for a short period of time. Having a heater that won’t produce heat wastes your money.
• Heater Noises: Aside from the noise of air coming gently from your vents, your heater really shouldn’t be making any noises. If anything, it may make a grumbling noise when it turns on for the first time during the year, which is normal. However, if your heater is constantly making loud noises that are disturbing or keep you up in the middle of the night, that is absolutely not normal and should be looked at. If it’s making a screeching, booming, banging or grinding noise, there could be something wrong with your furnace. If left for too long, you could be confronted with a surprise breakdown that isn’t fun for anyone!

Recognize any of these red flags? Give us a call at 1-800-989-0299! We’re available 24/7 for all your plumbing and HVAC needs.