A gas furnace usually runs quietly in the background, so changes in how it sounds, smells or heats your home are worth paying attention to. Unusual noises, lingering odors, cold rooms or frequent on-and-off cycles can all point to an issue. In this article, we go over five common signs that it’s time to have a professional take a look, and the few simple things you can safely check on your own.
1. Unusual noises
Banging, grinding, whistling or loud clicking when the furnace starts isn’t how a healthy system should sound. There can be many causes, and only a technician can pinpoint them during an inspection.
2. Unfamiliar smells
A light dusty smell for the first few minutes after the first startup of the season is common. If a smell doesn’t go away, smells like burning, or just seems unusual to you, turn the system off at the thermostat and contact a professional.
If you smell gas or your CO detector goes off, leave your home and call emergency services from outside.
3. Uneven heat
Some rooms are warm while others stay cold? Weak or cool air coming from the supply vents? This can be related to the furnace, the ductwork or the settings. A technician can find the cause.
4. The furnace turns on and off frequently
If your furnace starts and stops in short cycles, it may point to an issue that’s better diagnosed sooner rather than later.
5. Your system is running differently than before
What you can do yourself
- Check the air filter and replace it if needed
- Make sure the thermostat is set to Heat
- Keep the area around the furnace clear
Anything involving gas, electrical components, burners or the inside of the furnace should be checked by a technician. It’s safer, and in the end, faster.
SOMETHING OFF WITH YOUR FURNACE? GIVE US A CALL. Aurora and Chicagoland. (331) 442-4822.