How Can I Tell if My Furnace Needs Repairs?
Now that the chillier temperatures have arrived in our area, chances are you’ve had to turn on the furnace. You rely on your furnace operating effectively and efficiently during the winter so that you and your family can stay warm and comfortable. Unfortunately, furnaces may need repairs from time to time. If you’re not as comfortable as you’d like this winter, your furnace could need service.
You may be wondering how to tell if your furnace needs to be checked by a technician, and if it needs repairs. In this article, we’ll talk about how furnaces work, signs your furnace may need repairs, and how Standard Air Conditioning Co. can help. Keep reading to learn more!
How do furnaces work?
Many people have furnaces installed in their homes but aren’t really sure how they work. Furnaces generally use a five-step process to heat your home.
Fuel is ignited by the furnace’s burner.
The burner flames then heats up the system’s heat exchanger.
The heat exchanger warms up the cold, incoming air.
The system’s blower then forces the heated air into a system of ductwork, distributing the heated air throughout the home.
As the home is filled up with warm air, the cold air is then drawn back in via return ducts, and the process repeats.
Because there are so many different furnace components working together to keep your home heated, it’s inevitable that from time to time, repairs may be necessary.
What are some of the signs my furnace needs to be repaired?
If you’ve been concerned about how your furnace is performing, there are a few signs you should be on the lookout for, including:
Increased energy consumption. When a furnace must work harder because of a component failure to heat your home, it can expend a lot of extra energy. You may notice an increase in your utility bills, even though your home is not as comfortable as you’d like.
Old equipment. While most HVAC equipment is made to provide homeowners with years of effective, efficient use, as your furnace ages it will likely not keep you as comfortable as it once did. If your equipment is more than 10 years old, or if it has not been properly maintained, and you’re noticing a marked decrease in its effectiveness, you should have it checked out by a qualified technician.
Unusual noises. All furnaces make some noise when they operate, but it shouldn’t be obtrusive. If your furnace is making a grinding, clanging, or squealing sound, you should have it serviced right away. When furnace components like belts, fans, or motors fail, these sounds are often present.
Strange odors. Your furnace should not produce much of an odor at all. Sometimes, when you first turn your furnace on, you may notice a musty basement smell, but that should dissipate quickly. If you notice a burning odor, chances are a component has failed and you should turn your furnace off and call for repair services as soon as possible.
Inconsistent temperature. If you can’t seem to get the temperature in your home to reach a consistent level, there could be an issue with your furnace that needs to be addressed. Often, inconsistent temperatures indicate a problem with the thermostat, although there may also be problems with your furnace. It’s best to call a professional to help.
How can Standard Air Conditioning Co. help me get the furnace repairs I need?
At Standard Air Conditioning Co., our trained technicians are experts in troubleshooting your furnace problems. They’ll address your concerns and examine your system to find the root cause of the problem. Then, they’ll provide you with the expert repairs you need, professionally and promptly. And, we’re never satisfied until you are, so we’re not done until your furnace is back in good working order for you and your family.
When you need furnace repairs for your home, we can help. We have a staff of trained professionals who are ready to help you by coming to your home in Knoxville and providing you with the heat your home needs for the winter, and many winters to come. Call us now at (865) 855-6176 for an appointment and an estimate!
