Staying proactive and recognizing the signs of a potential furnace breakdown can help you avoid costly emergency repairs and unexpected discomfort. Promptly addressing issues ensures your heating system remains reliable, efficient, and ready for colder weather. In this blog post, we’ll highlight five key signs that indicate your furnace may be nearing a breakdown.
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- Unusual Noises
Banging, popping, rattling, or screeching sounds signal that something isn’t working properly. These sounds could indicate anything from ignition issues to problems with the blower. Ignoring these noises could lead to a full breakdown.
- The Flame Color
A healthy furnace burns with a blue flame, indicating complete combustion. If you notice the flame is yellow or orange, it could mean your furnace is burning fuel inefficiently. This can also signal serious safety risks, such as carbon monoxide production.
- Rising Heating Bills
A sudden increase in your heating bills can signal an inefficient furnace. Older furnaces may struggle to heat your home effectively, leading to higher energy consumption and increased costs.
- Short-Cycling
This is when the furnace frequently turns on and off. Short-cycling stresses the system and can dramatically reduce its lifespan and efficiency. The cause could be something as simple as a dirty air filter or more complex issues such as an incorrectly sized furnace for your home.
- Indoor Air Quality Issues
Your furnace could be to blame if you’ve noticed a decline in your indoor air quality (e.g. more dust, dry air, discomfort). Poorly maintained or inefficient systems can affect air quality, affecting your comfort and health.
Furnaces typically last between 12 and 15 years. If your furnace has been keeping your home warm for over a decade, it’s time to consider a replacement. EZ Air Conditioning and Heating provides expert furnace maintenance, repairs, and replacements to keep your system in top shape. Trust us to handle all your heating needs with professional care and reliable service. Call us at (210) 429-9186 or fill out our online form to schedule an inspection. We work with homeowners in San Antonio, TX, and surrounding areas.