Three Signs That You Need To Call A Furnace Repair Service
You should be able to count on the furnace in your home lasting for around 20 years, provided that you have it serviced by a furnace contractor regularly. While it's possible for your furnace to break down suddenly and without warning, many issues are easy to detect in advance if you know what signs to look for. Upon detecting a warning sign that something isn't right, it's beneficial to shut off the furnace and call a licensed repair contractor – try to arrange a visit as soon as possible, as you won't want to be without your furnace for long. Here are three signs to watch for.
Symptoms Related To Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Of all the signs that your furnace is having problems, the most concerning are those that suggest carbon monoxide could be leaking into your home. If there's a problem with the furnace, the release of this colorless and odorless gas can occur. Look for health symptoms among your family members such as vomiting, headaches and disorientation. If you or a family member is experiencing these concerning symptoms, shut off the furnace, open your windows and go outside for fresh air. This potential furnace problem is a key reason why every home should be equipped with a carbon monoxide detector.
A Notable Increase In Your Heating Bills
If you open your latest heating bill and are shocked to see that the amount owing is significantly higher than usual, it's important to first ascertain that your utility company hasn't changed its rates. Provided you can rule out this potential cause, you could be looking at a problem with your furnace. If it's slowly dying or has a part that's not working properly, such as the heating element, it could be struggling to heat your home but running consistently in a futile attempt to do so – all while upping your energy usage.
Strange Noises Coming Through Your Vents
A properly functioning furnace runs rather quietly; typically, you'll hear a low-grade hum and might occasionally also hear the sound of air moving through the vents. However, if you're able to detect unusual noises through your floor vents, it's a sign of a problem with the furnace. Potential noises can include squealing or banging – these can suggest that moving parts are in need of lubrication or are simply wearing out. Whatever the case, your heating repair service will be able to get to the bottom of the problem.