When the temperature drops in Calgary, you want to rely on your furnace to keep your home warm and cozy. But what if your furnace is not working as well as it should? How do you know if it needs maintenance or repair before it breaks down completely?
Ignoring the signs of a faulty furnace can lead to bigger problems, such as higher energy bills, poor indoor air quality, or even safety hazards. That’s why it’s essential to recognize the early warning signs that indicate your furnace needs professional maintenance services from a certified HVAC company.
Also Read: Get To Know Fogarty: Your Trusted HVAC Company
In this blog post, we will guide you through the common red flags that indicate the furnace is malfunctioning and how to fix them. By following these tips, you can prevent major issues and extend the lifespan of your furnace.
Sign 1: Unusual Noises
One of the most obvious signs that your furnace needs maintenance is when it makes unusual noises. If you hear clanks, bangs, rattles, squeaks, or screeches coming from your furnace, it could mean that something is loose, broken, or worn out inside.
Some of the possible causes of these noises are:
- Loose screws, bolts, or belts
- Cracked or broken blower wheel
- Worn-out bearings or motor
- Dirty or misaligned burners
- Faulty ignition system
These noises can indicate serious problems that can damage your furnace or cause a fire hazard. That’s why you should not ignore them and call a qualified HVAC contractor to inspect and repair your furnace as soon as possible.
Sign 2: Poor Heating Performance
Another sign that your furnace needs maintenance is when it fails to heat your home adequately or evenly. You may notice that some rooms are colder than others or that the temperature on the thermostat does not match the actual temperature in your home.
Some of the possible causes of poor heating performance are:
- Reduced airflow due to dirty or clogged filters
- Faulty heating elements or heat exchangers
- Leaky or blocked ducts
- Improper thermostat settings or calibration
Poor heating performance can affect your comfort and energy efficiency. It can also cause your furnace to overwork and wear out faster.
To improve your heating performance, you should regularly check and replace your filters, clean and seal your ducts, and adjust your thermostat settings. Moreover, you should also have your furnace inspected and tuned up by a professional HVAC contractor at least once a year.
Sign 3: Increased Energy Bills
If you notice a sudden spike in your energy bills without any change in your usage habits, it could be a sign that your furnace is not running efficiently. A poorly maintained furnace will consume more energy than necessary to heat your home, resulting in higher costs.
Some of the possible causes of increased energy bills are:
- Inefficient furnaces that are old or outdated
- Dirty or clogged filters that restrict airflow
- Leaky or blocked ducts that lose heat
- Improper thermostat settings or calibration
To lower your energy bills, you should consider upgrading to a more efficient furnace model. Furthermore, you should also have your furnace inspected and tuned up by a professional HVAC contractor at least once a year.
Sign 4: Frequent On/Off Cycling
Another sign that you need professional furnace maintenance services is when it cycles on and off frequently without reaching the desired temperature. This is also known as short cycling, and it can waste energy and wear out your furnace components.
Some of the possible causes of frequent on/off cycling are:
- Thermostat issues such as faulty wiring or incorrect location
- Clogged filters that restrict airflow
- Faulty sensors or limit switches that trigger safety shut-offs
- Oversized furnaces that heat up too quickly
To prevent frequent on/off cycling, you should check and replace your filters regularly, make sure your thermostat is working properly and located away from heat sources or drafts, and have your sensors and switches checked by a professional. Apart from all of this, you should also consult with an HVAC expert to determine if your furnace is sized correctly for your home.
Elevate Your Comfort With Expert Furnace Maintenance: Act Now For A Warm Winter
If you think your furnace needs some professional attention, don’t hesitate to contact us at Fogarty Heating & Ventilation. We are ready to assist you with any furnace-related needs, from installation to repair to replacement. You can schedule a maintenance appointment today.
About Fogarty Heating & Ventilation
Fogarty Heating & Ventilation is a trusted heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) company in Calgary. Whether you need a new furnace installation, repair, maintenance, or replacement, we have the expertise and experience to handle any job. We offer free estimates, competitive prices, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Learn more about our services by visiting our website.
