How to Spot Furnace Issues: 6 Signs It Needs Repair
Your furnace is extremely important and needs to be properly maintained. If you notice any of these six signs, you should investigate repair solutions as soon as possible.
#1 Expensive Heating Bills
We know sometimes every heating bill seems expensive, but if your next statement seems out of the ordinary, you may want to scrutinize how efficiently your furnace is running. If your furnace isn’t doing its job properly, it may have a negative effect on your wallet.
#2 Uneven Heating & Cold Spots
The Trane Clean Effects Whole Air Cleaner removes up to 99.8% of airborne particles, including those as small as 0.3 microns, If your furnace is doing its job, your house should be a comfortable, even temperature throughout. However, if you find that your home is fluctuating in temperature or there are cold spots around the house, it could be a sign it’s no longer operating efficiently.
You can try replacing the air filter, but if you recently made a swap and see no improvements, you may need to call a repair service.
#3 Strange Noises
If your furnace starts to rattle, squeal, or bang, it’s likely a sign that something isn’t right. Your furnace may be making strange noises because of loose bolts and screws, but it could also signify something more serious! For example, excessive humming could indicate something wrong with the furnace’s blower fan.
You should also be wary if there is a lack of noise! A furnace should have some natural humming and rumblings when it starts and stops, so if your house seems to be eerily silent, you may need to investigate.
#4 Any Odours
A furnace should never give off any odour and you should call professional help immediately. If you smell gas, you need to handle the situation immediately. Follow these steps promptly:
Leave the house and keep people away
Call 911
Do not smoke or light any fire (e.g., lighters, matches, etc.)
#5 Discoloured Pilot Light
The pilot light is a little flame in your gas burner that should be light blue. However, if something is amiss, it can affect the colour.
An ignition flame may turn yellowish if there are problems with the airflow in your furnace. This should be taken seriously because improper airflow can cause combustion. This may be a sign you need to change the furnace’s air filter or call professional help.
#6 Moisture Build-Up and Fluid Leaks
Any type of moisture, whether it’s a pool of water near your furnace or extra condensation on the windows, is an indication that something is wrong. Water is a natural by-product of a gas furnace, BUT you shouldn’t see it.
The good news is moisture is often not an emergency, but you still need to get it checked.
Contact the Trane team if you’re experiencing any furnace issues—we want to help!