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When A Furnace Repair Isn’t Necessary
11/10/2022
It can be difficult to know when you need to call for a furnace repair. Some things that happen can seem disastrous but may be perfectly normal. Other small, seemingly insignificant things may be a sign that a repair is necessary. With everything that happens when a furnace gets switched on, it can be hard to know what is normal and what is a red flag.
We’re here to help! Let’s discuss normal furnace functions versus warning signs that can indicate a problem. As always, if you ever have any questions about your HVAC, you can contact Service Legends.
515-657-6634Request Appointment Online
Some Furnace Sounds are Normal and Don’t Require A Furnace Repair
Noises coming from your furnace while in use are unavoidable. There is always going to be some sort of sound coming from your HVAC system.
How do you know what is normal and what isn’t?
Simply by paying attention. Spend a few minutes listening to your furnace when you know it is in perfect working order. The ideal time to do this is after a cleaning and inspection. Every system sounds a little different. So, there isn’t a black-and-white description of what is normal for a heating system and what isn’t.
Once you know what your system sounds like when it is running well, you can easily detect a change. Some normal sounds include rushing air, clicking sounds when the system turns on, the hum of electrical parts, and metal pings as the ductwork expands and contracts under changing temperatures.
Abnormal sounds are usually much louder than “normal” noises and usually last longer. Screeching, whining, booming, and pounding sounds are all indicators of a problem. It is wise to have an expert investigate any out-of-the-ordinary sounds that you detect.
What’s That Burning Smell?
Many times, the first time you turn your furnace on for the season, there is what homeowners describe as a burning smell. This smell can be totally normal. In most cases, the odor can last a few hours up to a couple of days. Often, this stench is due to dust settling on parts of the furnace during the fall when most people are not using their HVAC systems. The number one way to avoid this is to have one of our qualified technicians perform a pre-season inspection and tune-up on your furnace before you turn it on.
When it becomes abnormal is if you notice a burning smell that continues well into the season. Electrical issues can result in a noticeable smell that is vastly different than the normal burn-off smell you notice when you first turn your furnace on. It is absolutely crucial that if you detect any electrical smells you turn off your system and call a professional immediately.
Similar to electrical burning, the smell of burning plastic is another red flag. The odor of burning plastic is very identifiable. If this smell is ever noticed when your furnace is running, you should turn off your furnace and call us right away.
Your Energy Bill Looks Different
In most cases, if your HVAC use stays consistent, but your energy bill does not, there could be a problem. A shocking rise in your bill means your system is running longer than normal which almost always indicates an issue.
If your furnace can’t seem to reach the desired temperature during a normal cycle, air flow, broken parts, or damaged ducts are all examples of possible causes. Since most of the issues that cause a furnace to become less effective are internal, contacting a professional to examine possible causes of rising bills is your best bet.
Items to Check Before Calling for Furnace Repair
If you think your furnace has possibly been running a little longer than usual or might not be keeping your home as cool as it should, but you aren’t hearing, smelling, or seeing any other red flags, check these things before you call for furnace repair:
- Power – Make sure the power switch is set to “ON” and that your circuit board doesn’t have any tripped circuits
- Air filter – Make sure your air filter is clean and clear of any obstructions
- Thermostat – Ensure the batteries are working and all settings are correct
- Pilot Light – Double-check that the pilot light is bright and blue
- Air Intake Vent – Air flow is essential for a furnace to function properly; the air intake vent (located outside) needs to be free of any blockages
If you have trouble with any of the above steps or find something wrong within your system, give Service Legends a call!
515-657-6634Request Appointment Online
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