Is Your Furnace Ready for Winter?
6 Signs It May Need Service
As temperatures drop across Mississauga, Brampton, Oakville, Milton and, Etobicoke, your furnace becomes one of the most important systems in your home. Here are six signs that your furnace may need service before winter gets colder.
When the weather turns cold, you depend on your furnace to keep your home warm and comfortable. A furnace that worked properly last winter can still develop problems after months of limited use.
Annual furnace maintenance can help identify potential problems before they turn into an unexpected breakdown during the coldest part of winter.
If you have not had your furnace serviced recently, watch for these six warning signs.
6 Signs Your Furnace May Need Service
1. Your Furnace Is Making Unusual Noises
A furnace will normally make some noise when it starts and operates, but a new or unusual sound should not be ignored.
You may notice:
- Rattling or banging
- Screeching or squealing
- Grinding
- Clicking that continues after startup
- Loud humming
- Repeated popping sounds
These noises can sometimes indicate loose components, blower motor problems, ignition issues or other mechanical problems. Having the furnace inspected early can help identify the cause before a minor issue develops into a more expensive repair.
2. The Furnace Is Turning On and Off Too Often
Does your furnace seem to run for a short time, shut off and then start again shortly afterward? This is known as short cycling.
Short cycling can be caused by several issues, including a dirty filter, airflow restrictions, thermostat problems, an improperly sized furnace or other component issues.
Besides affecting comfort, frequent cycling can put additional strain on the furnace and increase energy consumption. If your furnace is repeatedly starting and stopping, it is worth having it checked.
3. Some Rooms Are Too Cold
A properly operating heating system should provide reasonably consistent temperatures throughout your home.
If certain rooms are noticeably colder than others, the problem may not simply be the weather.
Possible causes include:
- Restricted airflow
- Dirty filters
- Blocked or closed vents
- Ductwork problems
- Blower issues
- Thermostat problems
- Furnace performance issues
A professional furnace inspection can help determine whether the problem is with the furnace, airflow or another part of the heating system.
4. Airflow From the Vents Feels Weak
Put your hand over a few supply vents while the furnace is running. If the airflow feels significantly weaker than it used to, your furnace may need attention.
Weak airflow can be related to a dirty air filter, blocked ductwork, blower motor problems or other airflow restrictions.
A restricted system may also have to work harder to heat your home, which can affect comfort and operating costs.
Replacing a dirty filter is a good first step, but persistent weak airflow should be inspected by an HVAC professional.
5. Your Energy Bills Are Increasing
An increase in your heating bill does not always mean your furnace is failing. Weather, utility rates and changes in household usage can all affect energy costs.
However, if your energy consumption is noticeably higher without a major change in your heating habits, your furnace may not be operating as efficiently as it should.
Reduced efficiency can be associated with dirty components, airflow restrictions, aging equipment or mechanical problems.
A furnace service can help identify issues that may be affecting performance.
6. Your Furnace Has Not Been Serviced Before Winter
Sometimes the biggest warning sign is simply that your furnace has not been checked in a long time.
Even when a furnace appears to be working normally, annual maintenance can help identify worn or dirty components, airflow problems and other potential issues before the heating season is fully underway.
It is much better to discover a problem during a scheduled service visit than when your furnace stops working on a freezing night.
When Should You Schedule Furnace Service?
If your furnace is showing any of these signs, it is a good time to have it inspected.
Even if your furnace appears to be working normally, annual furnace maintenance is an important part of preparing your home for winter. Regular service can help maintain reliable operation, identify developing problems and keep your heating system operating efficiently.
For older furnaces, frequent repairs or recurring performance problems may also be signs that it is time to compare the cost of continued repairs with furnace replacement.
Get Your Furnace Ready for Winter
Don’t wait until the first major cold spell to discover that your furnace needs attention.
Furnace & AC Experts provides furnace service and repair for homeowners across Mississauga, Brampton, Etobicoke, Milton and Oakville. Our certified technicians can inspect your heating system, identify potential problems and help keep your home ready for the winter heating season.
Need Furnace Service?
Call Furnace & AC Experts today to schedule your furnace service.
