A broken-down furnace is the last thing you need on a cold winter morning. The InterNACHI’s Standard Estimated Life Expectancy Chart for Homes states that a furnace has an estimated life of 15–25 years. If the furnace is nearing that age range, it might need to be repaired. Meanwhile, the following are a few signs to tell if your furnace needs repairs:
Lukewarm or Cold Air
It goes without saying that your furnace blowing lukewarm or cold air is the first sign that it requires repair. There can be numerous reasons why your furnace is unable to produce hot air. There could be a problem with the pilot light, an electrical issue, a leaking duct, a dirty flame sensor, or a dying fan motor. For an accurate diagnosis, call a technician.
Increased Utility Bills
If there is a dramatic, unexpected increase in your utility bill, your furnace may be the culprit. The efficiency of the furnace may be low if you haven’t increased usage, but there’s still a spike in energy usage. You can try some tips to increase the efficiency of the furnace such as insulation of the furnace. However, a proper inspection from a technician is necessary if you wish to diagnose and fix the problem correctly.
Weird Noises
Your furnace may start producing various noises such as rattling, popping, hissing, dripping, etc. This may be a major sign that your furnace requires immediate attention. The blower wheel may be broken, there may be a loose part, the burner may be dirty, or there may be a belt or fan issue. Turn off the furnace immediately and call an HVAC specialist and have the furnace checked out if you notice any weird noises.
Odd Smells
When you turn on your furnace after a long time, it may initially give off a foul smell due to lack of use. Usually, these smells go away in a day or two when your furnace starts working properly again. But if these smells persist or increase, you may have a problem with the furnace. There may be a gas leak or dust in the unit or filter. If you notice a gas smell, call a technician immediately and get the furnace checked for a leak. Gas leaks can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or fire.
The Pilot Light Is Yellow Instead of Blue
Make sure that you routinely check the pilot light. Make it a habit. A pilot light tells you a lot about the health of your furnace. A change in the color of the light can indicate a ventilation problem that can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning and a combustible furnace. This can lead to numerous health problems or injuries.
Tripped Carbon Monoxide Detector
Modern furnaces come with detectors for carbon monoxide because it is a colorless, odorless gas that can be highly poisonous and lead to numerous health complications or even death. If this detector is tripped, turn off the furnace immediately and open all the windows and doors to ventilate your home and let in fresh air.
The Clean Air Act is here to help you with furnace repair in Beaverton, OR. Please call Sydni, our Office Extraordinaire, to schedule your next appointment! We will take care of you from there.