HVAC Hacks: Tips for Novices and New Homeowners

First Winter Living On Your Own? 4 Furnace Problems You Should Be Aware Of

You're finally out on your own! If this is your first winter living in your own place, you might not be familiar with furnace maintenance. Unfortunately, that unfamiliarity can lead to some costly – and even dangerous – situations. A faulty furnace can cause a lot of problems for you. To help you understand your furnace, here's a quick list of issues you should be on the look-out for.

Things That Go Bump in the Night

It's normal for your furnace to make minor noises when it's running. Squeaks and squeals are normal sounds that you might hear from time to time. However, if you hear a loud thud, bang or bump every time you turn your furnace on, you need to contact a repair technician as soon as possible. That loud noise could be the sign of a gas leak or a faulty igniter switch. Don't use your heater until you have it inspected.

Sudden Increase in Your Heating Bill

Unless the weather is unpredictable and your normal gas usage fluctuates each month, your heating bill should stay pretty consistent during the winter. If your heating bill suddenly increases even though the weather and your usage have stayed the same, your furnace may be in need of maintenance. Dirty filters and worn out blowers can make your furnace work harder, which will make your energy bills go up each month.

Inconsistent Heating

If you're noticing an inconsistent heating pattern throughout your home, there may be something wrong with your furnace. This is particularly true if your thermostat is located in a warm area of your home. If your thermostat is registering a comfortable temperature but the rest of your home is freezing, you may need to have a technician come out and install your thermostat somewhere else.

Sick Feeling When the Heater Is On

This is the most serious sign you need to be aware of. If you or family members feel sick, or get headaches whenever the heater is on, it may be due to increased carbon monoxide levels.

Carbon monoxide is an odorless gas that can build-up in your home, especially if your furnace is malfunctioning. If you're noticing an increase in unexplained illnesses and headaches, stop using your heater and have a technician come out as soon as possible.

You have a lot of responsibilities now that you're living on your own. One of those responsibilities is your furnace.  This list will help you monitor the health of your furnace. If you notice any of these problems, have a professional HVAC contractor, like Best Way Heating Furnace Repair, inspect your furnace.


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