When your heater starts to malfunction when you least expect it, you might end up in a bothersome ordeal, especially during the winter. Heaters require regular care and maintenance to function effectively and keep your home comfortable.
The main reasons why your heater malfunctions include poor maintenance and improper installation, so you should pay close attention to several signs and call a professional to carry out inspections and repairs.
Indications Of Faulty Heater
Keeping your heater in optimum condition is the best way to avoid a scenario where your heater breaks down during a winter evening, especially in states with extreme temperatures like Virginia. A home heating system requires attention as air conditioners do, and its durability is a crucial element. If you’re around Fairfax, you could contact heating repair Fairfax VA and other reliable services to check your equipment.
The following are several signs you need heating repair:
1. Skyrocketing Utility Bills
Once your monthly bill seems to increase for an unknown reason, the culprit might be the heater. When your gas bill also rises significantly, it’s also an indication your heater is malfunctioning. In the long run, your unit is going to become less efficient, and poor efficiency means your heater will take a longer time to provide your home with the right temperature.
2. Unusual Noises In The Furnace
An old or worn-out heating system is susceptible to occasional banging, rattling, and creaking. If you hear a squealing sound, it might be an issue with the motor bearings of the system while rattling is a sign the blower assembly requires inspection.
3. Burner Flame Turns Yellow
Generally, you’ll see a blue flame on your gas furnace. However, once the burner flame appears yellow, it indicates a problem with the heating system. A yellow flame indicates carbon monoxide within your home—a type of gas without odor and color. It can be hazardous in large amounts, which is why it’s vital to deal with the issue promptly.
Once you notice the gas furnace flame turning yellow, call a professional immediately. Unexplainable flu-like symptoms are also an indication of the presence of the chemical. If you or any family member feels dizzy or tired inside the house, vacate right away.
4. Uneven Temperatures And Cold Spots
The uneven temperature in your home is a red flag requiring heating repair. Once this occurs, it can indicate various issues in the heating system such as incorrect insulation or ductwork issues.
5. Constant Need To Adjust Thermostat
If you constantly adjust the thermostat several times throughout the day, it might be a sign there’s something wrong with your heater. In such cases, you’ll have difficulty achieving the ideal temperature in some rooms of your house.
The furnace isn’t distributing the heat evenly throughout the area, and it’s the reason why some rooms are warm while others can be cold. Timely repair is necessary to prevent the issue from getting worse.
6. Poor Air Quality
Once the air in your home starts to get too stale or cloudy for no reason, it’s a sign your heating system requires a repair job. A malfunctioning furnace can circulate allergens, dust, and mildew spores. If there’s an increase in respiratory conditions in your household, the heater might be the culprit.
7. Age Of Heating System
Similar to any machine, the heating system will eventually wear out over time. Generally, the life expectancy of a heater is between 15-25 years. If your heating system has a pilot light, it can be a 25-year-old system already.
Remember, an old unit is prone to breaking down. It’s no longer efficient, causing an increase in your utility bills. If your system is over 20 years, it might be time for an upgrade.
8. Short Cycles
If your heating system turns on and off unintentionally, it might indicate a problem. Short cycling occurs once the heat exchanger is overheating, causing the system to cease operating. It switches on again once the exchanger cools down, but once your heater has short cycles, it’s best to call a professional for an inspection.
9. Frequent Replacements
When you’re replacing parts or components too often, the heater might have a severe problem. If you have an old heating system, repairs aren’t tricky, but replacements aren’t easy to find. In such instances, it’s better to settle for a system upgrade.
Frequent replacements are a clear sign your system requires serious work. Once you decide to upgrade your heating system, it’ll significantly improve energy efficiency and keep your home comfortable. Additionally, it can help save money on repairs over time.
Conclusion
The heating system in your home constantly works to keep a comfortable space at all times. Since it has a crucial role, it’s best to provide it with proper care and routine maintenance. When any of these telltale signs occur, don’t hesitate to call a professional for an inspection. Timely repairs will keep your heating system in top shape for years to come.
About Author: Marcus Cruz is an HVAC repair specialist. He has five years of experience in residential HVAC repair services. He shares his HVAC expertise through blog writing in various online publications. Marcus works for a reputable HVAC company, servicing both residential and commercial establishments.
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