Winter is the time of year when HVAC contractors are at their busiest with furnace repairs. That’s because most homeowners fail to prepare their heating systems with proper inspections and maintenance, which leads to inefficiencies and unit breakdowns. Below are some of the common problems you may encounter when you neglect the furnace.

When to Call for Furnace Repairs

1. Ignition or Pilot Control Issues

Whether your furnace uses an electrical ignition or pilot light, a faulty one can leave you cold in the middle of a freezing day. There are plenty of reasons why your heater won’t start up without a fuss—such as a broken igniter, faulty safety switch, or malfunctioning component somewhere in the ignition system. Refrain from trying to diagnose the issue and call for furnace repairs right away instead.

2. Lack of Heat

Testing the furnace ahead of the season ensures that it will be up and running as needed. However, you’ll only start to notice its inability to deliver much-needed heat when it’s cold outside. If yours fails to warm you up, let a professional furnace repair technician determine the issue. The burner may require adjusting or cleaning, but refrain from fixing it on your own to reduce the risk of fires.

3. Unusual Noises and Odors

Furnaces rarely run quietly, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore loud sounds like banging, grinding, rattling, whining, or squealing. These noises may be from a frayed belt, clogged burner, worn-out bearings, or a faulty blower motor. Apart from noises, pay attention to burning odors or gas smells when your furnace runs. If you notice any unusual scents, call for furnace repairs right away.

4. Frequent Cycling

If your furnace quickly switches on and off, it undergoes rapid cycling, which puts additional strain on the equipment. There may be several causes behind this issue, including incorrect thermostat setting, obstructed airflow, clogged filters, faulty wiring, or ignition troubles. It’s also possible that your unit has the wrong capacity for the room area.

5. Inefficient Operations

Heating expenses account for a significant portion of a home’s total energy costs and reducing them benefits your pockets in the long run. If your heater runs inefficiently, it consumes more energy, and you’ll end up with higher utility costs. Call a furnace repair technician to find out what’s causing the spike.

For quality furnace repairs on the above problems, count on the professionals at Glorieta Creek Mechanical. As the trusted full-service HVAC contractor in Santa Fe, NM, they’ve provided installation, maintenance, and repairs of air conditioning and heating units at affordable rates throughout the area since 2006. Call (505) 757-8872 to schedule a service today online.