Signs You May Need Furnace Repair or Replacement
Winter is the worst time of year to be caught off-guard by crucial furnace repair. It’s generally best to have your furnace serviced in the fall, well before the time you’ll actually need it. However, things don’t always go as planned. If your furnace has not been recently serviced, there are some tell-tale signs that can alert you when it may need repair or replacement.
Unusual Sounds
Have you noticed any unusual sounds in your home? If you hear a loud rumbling, rattling, popping or squealing coming from your furnace, you’ll want to call for service. Any of these noises could be an indication of necessary furnace repair.
It’s important to take note of the normal sounds of your functioning appliances, that way you’ll be able to tell when something doesn’t sound right. A functioning furnace should operate quietly. If you start to notice unusual sounds, have your furnace serviced swiftly to ensure the safety of yourself and your family.
Old Age
We typically don’t think of our appliances being affected by the passing of time. However, age is definitely a factor when it comes to proper functioning. If your furnace is 15 years or older, it may be time to consider replacing it. The major source of heat for you home, furnaces are fueled by potentially harmful substances. Therefore, it’s necessary that they function as efficiently as possible.
Furnaces have an approximate life of 18 years, but it may be more cost-effective to replace a problematic furnace 15 years or older, rather than try to have it serviced. This will ensure you’re using the newest, safest, and most energy efficient model available, which will save you time and money on any potential furnace repair.
Increase in Heating Cost
Has your heating suddenly become unreliable or spotty? Have you noticed your furnace running more frequently to maintain the same temperature? Has your heating bill suddenly increased? Many people may not notice an issue with their furnace until they open their monthly bill. If you realize that your heating costs have significantly increased or if heating has become inconsistent, you may need furnace repair. A furnace that is doing more work and yielding fewer results is costly and can be hazardous.
Requires Frequent Repair
It’s good to schedule routine maintenance for your furnace annually, before peak season. However, a relatively new furnace shouldn’t need constant repairs. Multiple fixes in a short time-span could be symptomatic of a larger issue. If you frequently require furnace repair beyond simple routine maintenance, it may be time to consider replacing the unit altogether.
Changes in Flame Color
If the burner flame has gone from blue to yellow, this is a major warning sign that your furnace could be producing carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. If you witness this color-change, remove your entire family from the home immediately, have your utility company turn off the gas, and call your local fire department to assure that it’s safe to enter again. It will then be necessary to call in a professional furnace repair specialist to fix this issue.
Furnace Repair in Toms River NJ
Your furnace is responsible for ensuring your home is warm and comfortable in the winter time. It’s wise to have the number of a trusted and experienced furnace repair specialist handy in the event of an emergency. No one wants to be left out in the cold in the dead of winter. Ensuring your furnace is regularly serviced is the best way to avoid the need for potential repair or replacement.
Jersey Coast Appliance offers comprehensive furnace repair in Toms River, NJ. Our experts can quickly diagnose your furnace and will let you know if it’s better to repair or replace it. Don’t let your family go cold this winter. Make sure your furnace is up to date and working efficiently so you can save yourself time, money, and valuable energy this winter. Give us a call today to schedule an appointment.
Thank you for telling me that even the slightest change in the flame color from blue to yellow means that my furnace is up for a repair. As I read your article, I remember overhearing my daughter last night that the fire is “more alive now” since it has yellow hues. It’s good that this article warned me before we turn it on again tonight. I’ll follow your advice and call a professional furnace repair specialist to have it fixed immediately.