Is your furnace struggling to maintain temperature? If you experience any of these 5 signs you need furnace repair, you may require the help of our skilled repair team.
1. Strange furnace noises
2. Poor furnace performance
3. Furnace frequently cycles on and off
4. Bad odors from furnace
5. Abnormally high fuel or energy usage
Strange Furnace Noises
Strange furnace sounds could lead to costly damage, system failure, or unsafe operation. Don’t ignore these common causes:
Dirty or clogged burners
Banging, booming sounds from dirty burners and delayed ignition cause gas to build up and explode when the furnace lights. If you hear this sound, call a professional ASAP.
Loose or broken furnace parts
Rattling or clanking signals loose components.
Failing blower motor, belt, or bearings
Squealing, screeching, or grinding noises may indicate that your blower motor, belt, or bearings require maintenance or replacement.
Airflow restrictions or leaks
Whistling or whooshing noises indicate restrictions in the system, possibly from a clogged air filter, leaky ductwork, or blocked vents.
Electrical issues
Humming or buzzing could indicate electrical issues, a failing capacitor, or a struggling motor.
Poor Furnace Performance
If your furnace is struggling to keep your home warm or you’re experiencing hot and cold spots, these top culprits could be why:
Dirty air filter
A clogged air filter forces your furnace to work harder to circulate warm air.
Blocked or leaky ducts
Poorly sealed or damaged ductwork, closed vents, and rugs and furnishings blocking registers are common causes of poor furnace performance.
Thermostat malfunction
A failing thermostat may register the wrong temperature or cause improper cycling.
Blower motor problems
A struggling blower motor won’t push enough air to maintain warm, even temperatures.
Old or improperly sized furnace
A furnace that is too small for your home or nearing the end of its life won’t provide effective heating.
Furnace Frequently Cycles On and Off
Short cycling wastes energy and strains your system, leading to costly repairs when left unaddressed. If you can’t identify these common causes of short cycling, schedule an inspection with our local furnace contractors ASAP:
Dirty air filter
A dirty, clogged air filter can cause your furnace to overheat, turn off early, and restart after it cools.
Thermostat problems
A malfunctioning thermostat or poor location (in direct sunlight or near a heat source) can cause frequent cycling.
Component failure
Your furnace may shut off for safety if it has a dirty flame sensor that cannot detect the burner flame, or a failing blower motor or fan limits airflow.
Airflow blockages
Blocked registers and ductwork obstructions can trigger furnace safety shut-off features.
Bad Odors from Furnace
Odors emanating from your furnace may be caused by:
Dust buildup
An odd, burning odor from dust buildup on heat exchangers is common the first time you run your furnace for the season and should dissipate quickly.
Dirty air filter
Musty odors are common in filters overdue for replacement.
Dirty ductwork
Damp, moldy, or dirty ducts in need of cleaning can spread musty smells through your home or business.
Exhaust leak
A cracked heat exchanger can cause a chemical smell and poses a significant risk of carbon monoxide exposure. Leave your home and schedule emergency heating system service.
Fuel leak
A rotten egg smell indicates a gas leak. If you notice this odor, turn off your gas supply, vacate the building, and contact your utility provider immediately.
Abnormally High Fuel or Energy Usage
A furnace that struggles to maintain temperature consumes more fuel or electricity than a smoothly functioning home heating system. If your furnace requires more energy than usual to operate, consider these common causes:
Dirty air filter
Airflow restrictions force your system to work harder and use more fuel to accomplish the same level of heating.
Neglected maintenance
Dusty burners, dirty flame sensors, and poorly lubricated parts require more fuel and force to perform essential functions.
Old, inefficient furnace
Furnaces naturally lose efficiency over time as parts wear out. If your furnace is over 15 years old, it may be time for furnace replacement.
Failing thermostat
A faulty thermostat can cause your system to run longer than necessary.
Parts malfunction
A failing blower motor, gas valve, or ignition system can prevent your furnace from running efficiently, resulting in burning extra fuel.
Maximize Furnace Performance and Lifespan
Prevent high electricity or fuel use, safety issues, unexpected breakdowns, and permanent damage. Don’t ignore these 5 signs you need furnace repair. Contact ACT Absolute Comfort Technology at 509-388-2997 to schedule a furnace inspection in Union Gap, Ellensburg, Richland, Pasco, Zilla, Cle Elum, Prosser, Grandview, or Yakima today.
