Most people tend to ignore their furnace for the majority of the year. However, once the colder months approach, pay attention to anomalies. Catching the early warning signs that something is wrong could be the crucial difference between a minor furnace repair and a much larger issue, and you don’t want to be without a furnace in the middle of winter. Here are some signs that something could be awry.

How to Tell If Your Furnace Needs Repairs

1. Noise

Hums, clicks, and occasional cracking noises are perfectly normal furnace sounds; as the system heats up and cools down, the metal expands or contracts. You should begin to worry if you hear rattling, grinding, or roaring that gets progressively louder. Sounds of this kind indicate that you need a furnace repair specialist to take a look.

2. Thermostat Malfunction

Your thermostat is how you regulate your home’s temperature. If the house becomes too hot or too cold or erratically shifts between the two, the thermostat could be to blame. Thermostat issues could include power outages, wiring problems, and dust or debris getting caught inside.

3. Dirty Filter

If your filter is dirty, the furnace has to work harder to operate effectively. Not only could this cause extensive damage in the long term, but in the short term, your energy bills can climb as the furnace struggles to generate the same output.

4. Not Enough Heat

If your furnace doesn’t give out enough heat, there are a couple of causes to look for. The filter may be clogged, reducing performance, or it could merely be that the furnace is too small to heat the space required. If in doubt, call a professional because it could be another issue entirely.

5. Pilot Light Problems

Keep an eye on your pilot light. If it flickers or turns yellow—it should be blue—there could be excess carbon monoxide in your gas furnace. If it repeatedly blows out, it could be catching a draft, the thermocouple might be shutting it down as a safety precaution, or there could be an issue with your furnace system. For everything other than a draft, you should call a professional to investigate.

For over 50 years, Overcashier & Horst Heating and Air Conditioning has  been the leading HVAC repair and installation specialist in Sylvania, OH. They not only serve residential homes and commercial businesses but also carry a wide range of heating and cooling products to keep properties comfortable and energy-efficient. Whether you need furnace repair or a full replacement, you can rely on this is the team to get the job done. Call (419) 841-3333 to speak to a team member or schedule a visit. Visit their website to explore their services.