Your furnace is instrumental in ensuring your home’s comfort and safety during the winter months, which is why it’s so frustrating when the appliance stops working. Fortunately, by recognizing the signs that your furnace has started to fail, you can try to resolve the issue quickly by contacting an HVAC contractor. Here are a few signs your system is failing. 

Symptoms of a Failing Furnace

1. Old Age

The average lifespan of newer furnaces is between 20 and 30 years. However, older models only last between 15 and 20 years. The furnace manufacture date should be printed on the side of the system. Know when your furnace was installed, and be ready to contact HVAC contractors for a replacement when your system reaches the 15-year mark. 

2. Yellow Flames

The flame chamber within your gas furnace should only emit a blue flame when your furnace is operating, never a yellow flame. If the flame is yellow, it could be a sign the system is dirty and not operating properly, potentially leaking carbon monoxide into your home. 

3. Strange Noises

When furnaces start to develop worn components, you may hear grinding or screeching noises instead of simple air movement. Some furnaces subjected to stark temperature changes may also create loud banging noises from contracting and expanding metal. Pay attention to the way your system sounds, and talk with an HVAC contractor if you notice any new noises. 

If you are concerned about the health of your furnace, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at Ruby Mountain HVAC & Refrigeration in Elko, NV. With a focus on helping their clients with everything from air conditioning and furnace repair to refrigeration, this team of HVAC contractors can help you to enjoy a cleaner, safer home. To find out more about how they can help, visit their website or give their office a call at (775) 738-9375.