Is it Time to Replace your Furnace?
Nothing is worse than having your furnace stop working in the dead of winter. Although an expert should handle major furnace repairs, you can evaluate the basic system before making any emergency calls. A few simple troubleshooting techniques will let you know if it’s time to replace your furnace or call out for a repairman.
Troubleshooting a Furnace
Your first step when the heat won’t turn on is to check the thermostat. Make sure the unit has power and the settings are correct. If all is well, head over to the furnace unit to ensure the power switch is on. If the furnace has a reset button, press it to see if the issue resolves itself. Also, check the circuit breaker to make sure a fuse hasn’t blown. If your home’s gas valve is shut off that could be another reason the furnace isn’t working. If you have an older furnace model that has a pilot light, you should examine to see if the pilot light is still lit.
One of the number one reasons a furnace stops working properly? A dirty filter. The dust and dirt in the filter will restrict airflow and cause overheating. If you notice the blower is on, but no warm air is circulating through the house, then the filter likely needs replacing. Most filters need to be changed every one to three months depending on the type of filter your system uses. While replacing a filter, remember to turn off the furnace and shut off your home’s thermostat.
Finally, look at any vent openings leading away from the house. If the venting is blocked by objects, such as snow and ice, remove the blockage. Drain lines from high-efficiency furnaces can also become blocked. If the drain hose appears to be filled with sediment, flush with a bleach and water mixture until clear.
When Do You Replace a Furnace?
Even when your furnace is working properly, you may find it’s high time to replace your old unit. A new furnace can increase heating efficiency and reduce energy costs dramatically. If you start to see your heating bills increase and you never seem to be able to control the temperature in spite of the thermostat, it may be time for a new furnace.
What are some other signs that your furnace needs replacing? You can look at the age of your furnace to start. The average life expectancy of a furnace ranges anywhere from 15 to 20 years. If your furnace is nearing the end of its life expectancy then it’s better to replace the unit now instead of waiting for it to fail. If your furnace starts making any unusual noises such as popping, banging, and rattling, then that’s a sign the furnace may be on the way out. The air in the house can be another indicator that your furnace should be replaced. Older furnaces don’t have the capabilities to add moisture or clean the air. Allergy sufferers are usually most affected by a furnace’s inability to remove airborne allergens while running.
Furnace Danger Signs
There are several signs that could indicate your furnace has a serious problem and could pose a danger to you or your family. For instance, a flame inside your furnace that flickers or has a yellow color could mean your furnace is producing deadly carbon monoxide. Additional signs of the presence of carbon monoxide include rusting on furnace piping, soot around furnace, and excess moisture found on windows and walls.
Cracks inside the heat exchanger of a furnace could cause carbon monoxide leaks. Warning signs of personal exposure may include frequent, unexplained headaches, nausea, confusion, and symptoms that resemble the flu. In the case you suspect carbon monoxide exposure; shut off the furnace, open a window near the furnace and call a technician for immediate assistance.
Smelling gas from a faulty furnace also warrants an emergency. If there is a rotten egg stench in the home, get you and your family out of the house right away and contact your local fire department to report a possible gas leak.
Whether repairing or replacing a furnace, leave the hard work to the experts. The professionals of Delta Heating, Cooling & Plumbing will help you with all of your furnace repair needs. They offer competitive flat rate pricing on their installation and repair services and are centrally located in Raleigh, North Carolina. Contact them today!