During winter, you depend on your furnace to keep your home warm and cozy. However, since your furnace goes unused during the warmer months, you might not know if your unit is damaged at the start of the winter. If you experience any of the following issues this winter, immediately contact a furnace repair professional.

How to Tell You Need Furnace Repairs

1. Odd Noises

Hearing a thump, scrape, or bang is a clear sign that your furnace needs repairs. These noises hint at problems with internal components, such as unmaintained burners and damaged or loose parts.

2. Unpleasant Smells

It's normal to detect odd odors when you use your furnace for the first time after a long period of inactivity. However, call a furnace repair technician if you notice smells like burning rubber. These are potential safety hazards and can also be pointing to operational issues.

3. No Heat or Varying Temperatures

Your furnace should give off a comfortable and level amount of heat throughout your home. If you notice that some rooms are cooler than others or your system isn't generating enough warmth, the problem could stem from a malfunctioning thermostat or heat exchanger.

4. High Utility Bills

Worn-out parts may drive your furnace to work inefficiently and consume more power, thus increasing your utility bills. Compare your heating bills from last winter to help determine if your current expenses have spiked significantly. 

5. Carbon Monoxide (CO) Leaks

Beeps from your carbon monoxide detector may indicate a leak in your heating system. Inhaling excessive CO can cause nausea, dizziness, and in extreme cases, death. Do not ignore any signs of a possible CO leak, and ask a professional to check your system immediately. If your home doesn’t currently have a CO detector, install one as soon as possible.

Getting prompt furnace servicing can prolong your unit's lifespan so it can keep you warm for many more winters. For reliable furnace repairs, turn to the professionals at Rochester Heating & Cooling. For over 15 years, their highly trained technicians have been providing high-quality HVAC solutions in upstate New York. They also perform duct cleaning to help improve indoor air quality in their clients' homes and businesses. To get a free quote, call (585) 458-3700. Visit them online to learn more about their services.