The simple truth of any complex system is that when something goes wrong, having it repaired right away will stop the problem from getting any bigger. But that means you need to know as soon as possible when something starts to go wrong.
When it comes to your heating system, how can you tell you need to have repairs? Here are the clues to watch (and listen) for. And if you do need repairs, we’ve got a gift for you: $50 off your first service from us!
Noises
Heating systems will always make some amount of sound, but they should be steady and consistent: the hum of the furnace, the whir of the fan. As with other mechanical or electrical systems—car, computer, coffee maker—an unexpected noise is generally a sign that there’s a problem. But what kind of problem is it?
Rattling might indicate a loose component or wobbly fan. Clicking or buzzing can be caused by electrical issues. Grinding, groaning sounds can occur when the motor bearings wear down. And a terrible screeching noise might be a warning that the belt is tearing, stretching, or slipping out of position.
Odors
The smell of toasted dust is common the first time you turn on the heat in the fall, but this is entirely avoidable. Just make sure you have maintenance done each year, and your furnace will be perfectly clean, with no dust to burn. Other smells are signs that repairs are necessary, though.
Overheating components may smell like too-hot metal or plastic. An electrical fire can smell like fish, strangely enough. This is because the chemical reaction involved releases ammonia into the air, just like a decomposing fish on the beach. That’s a sign that you need emergency repairs. And if you smell eggs or sulfur? It’s a gas leak! Evacuate, and get emergency assistance.
Short Cycling
The heat should come on and turn off fairly infrequently, only a handful of times per hour. If it shuts down almost immediately every time it comes on, and then tries to run again moments later, it’s a problem. This is called short cycling. Not only is there something wrong which is causing the short cycling, if you allow it to continue, the short cycling itself will cause more problems! Get prompt heating repair in Prosperity, SC.
Poor Heat Circulation
Your heating system should make it possible for your whole home to be evenly comfortable. If some areas are totally cozy while others stay chilled, you have a heat circulation problem. It might be that there’s an issue with the ducts in part of your home, or it may be that the blower fan isn’t moving the hot air quickly enough.
Rising Utility Bills
The energy we need to heat our homes can be pretty costly. But if that cost keeps going up, even though nothing else has changed, it may well be that your heating system is using more energy than it should. This can result from a wide variety of problems. Get repairs done! You shouldn’t be paying extra for heat without getting any more bang for your buck.
Contact Fulmer Heating & Cooling today for a heating expert in Columbia, SC!