Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a heating system that never experienced problems? Unfortunately, this will never be the case. Let’s face it, natural wear and tear is always going to be a factor, and eventually, you will need heater repairs.
That doesn’t mean, however, that you can’t take steps to mitigate how severe these repair needs will be! Scheduling maintenance, for instance, is the #1 way to avoid heater emergencies. It also increases the lifespan of your heating equipment and helps the system work more efficiently. Our techs are able to fully inspect your system during maintenance, so we can alert you to small repair needs before they grow bigger.
What if you need repairs between maintenance sessions, though? Is there any way for you to know? Yes! Watch and listen for the following signs, and if you notice them, give our team a call.
Cool Air Coming from Vents
There are some symptoms of a failing furnace or heat pump that can be fairly subtle. But a heater blowing out cold air is not one of them! You could be looking at a fuel combustion problem, or maybe even a leak in the air ducts to a particular area of the home. Whatever the case, you’ll need to have your system repaired to restore functionality and efficiency.
Sudden Increase in Heating Costs
You should expect to see higher energy bills this time of year, as you use your heater more and more. What you shouldn’t expect, however, is to be paying a lot more than you were this same time last year, or more than your neighbors are paying. If you find this to be the case, it’s a sign that something is causing your heater to work inefficiently, and you may need repairs.
The System is Short-Cycling
This is a sign you should listen for, rather than watch for. Short-cycling describes the process an HVAC system goes through when it turns on and off in rapid succession, never fully completing a heat cycle (or cooling cycle in the case of an air conditioner). Short-cycling wears down on your heater faster than normal, and can be caused by a number of factors.
Burning Smells
It’s natural to detect a slight burning odor when you turn your heater on for the first time during the season. It indicates that dust is burning off of the burners and other interior components. What’s not normal, however, is if that smell persists. This can be dangerous whether you have a gas-powered system or electric furnace or heat pump. Be sure to give us a call right away if you notice a persistent burning smell coming from your heating system.
Unfamiliar Noises
We’re talking about anything from buzzing—indicative of an electrical short or problem—to clanging or clicking. Clanging can mean a component is loose while clicking can indicate a crack in the heat exchanger, the latter of which is a very dangerous problem to have as it can expose you and your family to harmful carbon monoxide gas.
For expert services for your heating in Roswell, GA, look no further than DC Cheek Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. Contact us today and see to it that your heater is “Fixed, at the Speed of Life!”
