I know that understanding the intricacies of furnace repair can be daunting, especially if you’re new to the world of heating systems. But don’t worry, this guide will demystify furnace repairs, helping you make informed decisions when faced with heating issues.
By the end of this article, you’ll have a better understanding of who to call for furnace repair, what signs to look out for, and the best practices in maintaining your furnace.
Who Should You Call to Repair a Furnace?
When it comes to furnace repair services, an HVAC professional is your best bet.
An HVAC technician possesses the necessary expertise to diagnose and address various furnace issues. Whether you have a gas furnace, an electric furnace, or a heat pump, a qualified technician will be able to handle all of them efficiently.
What Do You Call Someone Who Fixes Furnaces?
The person you call to repair a furnace is usually referred to as a furnace repair technician or simply a furnace technician or HVAC technician.
These experts can provide a range of services, including furnace installation, emergency furnace repairs, and routine furnace tune-ups, ensuring the proper heating of your home even during the cold winter months.
10 Signs Your Furnace is in Need of Professional Repair
There are common signs that your furnace might be in need of professional repair. These include:
1. Unusual Noises
If your furnace is making loud, odd, or strange noises that you haven’t heard before, it’s a clear sign that something is wrong. Sounds like banging, squealing, or rattling should not be ignored.
2. Increased Energy Bills
A sudden spike in your energy bills could indicate that your furnace is not working as efficiently as it should, which could be due to a variety of issues including dirty burners or a faulty heat exchanger.
3. Poor Performance and Air Quality
If your furnace isn’t heating your home evenly or adequately, or if you’re noticing a decline in your indoor air quality, these could be signs of a problem with your furnace.
4. Cold Spots in Your Home
Cold spots or rooms that don’t seem to get warm might indicate a problem with your furnace’s air flow, possibly due to blocked air ducts or a malfunctioning furnace fan.
5. Yellow or Flickering Flame
For gas furnaces, the flame should be blue and steady. A yellow or flickering flame could indicate a problem with your gas mixture or venting, which requires immediate professional attention.
6. Frequent Cycling
If your furnace frequently turns on and off, this could indicate a problem with its limit switch, which controls the fan.
7. Presence of Soot or Rust
Soot or rust around the furnace could indicate that there is too much or incomplete combustion, which can result in excessive carbon monoxide.
8. Frequent Thermostat Adjustments
If you constantly find yourself adjusting the thermostat to keep your home comfortable, it’s likely a sign that your furnace isn’t distributing heat properly.
9. Excessive Dryness or Dust
A malfunctioning furnace can lead to excessively dry air and increased dust in your home, affecting the comfort level and air quality.
10. Furnace Breakdown
An obvious sign that your furnace needs professional repair is when it stops working entirely. Don’t attempt to fix a broken furnace yourself—call an HVAC professional immediately.
Take note of these warning signs as they indicate your furnace may need an urgent repair or even a furnace replacement.
10 DIY Fixes to Try Before Calling a Professional Repair Man
Before you call in a furnace repair professional, there are some simple DIY fixes you might want to try. These can help improve the efficient operation of your heating unit:
1. Replace Your Furnace Air Filter
Clogged or dirty air filters can restrict the flow of air, causing your furnace to work harder. Replace your furnace air filter regularly to improve the overall efficiency of your heating system.
2. Check Your Thermostat Settings
Sometimes, your heating problems might be due to incorrect thermostat settings. Ensure your thermostat is set to heat mode and the temperature setting is higher than the current temperature of your home.
3. Ensure Your Circuit Breaker is On
A furnace that isn’t receiving power will obviously not work. Check your breaker panel and ensure the circuit for the furnace isn’t tripped.
4. Secure Your Furnace Access Panels
Loose or improperly placed access panels can affect the performance of your furnace. Secure all panels to ensure efficient operation.
5. Inspect Your Air Ducts
Blocked or leaking ducts can lead to restricted airflow, poor performance, and cold spots in your home. Inspect your air ducts for any blockages or signs of leakage.
6. Turn On Your Furnace Power Switch
The power switch of your furnace might have been turned off accidentally. Locate the switch, usually found on or near the furnace, and make sure it is in the on position.
7. Open Your Gas Valve
If you have a natural gas furnace, make sure the gas valve is open. An improperly closed valve can prevent the furnace from igniting.
8. Clean Your Flame Sensor
A dirty flame sensor can cause your gas furnace to shut off prematurely. Carefully clean the sensor with an emery cloth to ensure the continuous operation of your furnace.
9. Check the Heat Exchanger
Cracks or leaks in the heat exchanger can lead to inefficient heating. Inspect your heat exchanger for any signs of damage.
10. Inspect Your Air Conditioning Unit
If your air conditioning unit shares ductwork with your furnace, issues with the former can affect the latter. Check your air conditioning unit for any issues and fix them promptly.
Remember, while these DIY fixes can potentially solve minor issues, more serious problems require the attention of a furnace repair professional. Always prioritize your safety and don’t hesitate to call an expert if you are unsure or uncomfortable performing these checks.
Remember, your safety is paramount. If you’re uncomfortable performing these checks or the problem persists, it’s time to call a furnace repair expert.
Should You Fix Your Own Furnace?
Unless you have significant experience and knowledge in furnace repairs, it’s advisable to leave the repairs to the experts.
Dealing with furnace repairs can be risky, especially when handling gas furnaces as they involve the risk of gas leaks. Expert technicians are equipped with the necessary knowledge and tools to ensure safe and proper repair.
How to Know if an HVAC Technician is Honest?
An honest HVAC technician will provide a detailed explanation of the problem and the steps needed to fix it. They should offer a clear breakdown of the cost of repair, and they won’t push for unnecessary high-cost replacements.
In addition, an honest technician should be willing to answer your questions and provide credentials, including licenses and warranties, upon request.
Conclusion
Understanding your furnace and when to call for repairs is crucial for maintaining a comfortable and efficient home. This article has provided insights into the tell-tale signs of furnace problems, DIY fixes, and how to choose a furnace repair company.
Always remember, while DIY fixes can be helpful, your safety is paramount. It’s always best to consult with a furnace repair professional if you’re unsure. That way, you can ensure your furnace is operating at its peak performance, offering you comfort and optimal energy efficiency all year round.
