Winter is almost here, and it is the time of the year when we rely on our heating systems for comfort and warmth. The last thing you want is to wake up one cold morning and find that you need to fix your heating system. To avoid such an unpleasant surprise, it is crucial to carry out regular maintenance and checkups on your heating system. This article will guide you on some of the signs that indicate that your heating system needs fixing.
If your heater suddenly stops working in the middle of winter, it can be a total nightmare. (Although, Frederick Air will make sure you stay warm while you’re waiting to get it fixed!) It’s important to look for the signs that your system needs service so that you can prevent a complete breakdown. Better yet, schedule regular preventive maintenance by a licensed HVAC technician so that you can rest easy.
Signs You Will Need Heating Repair
It’s likely there were signs you needed heating repair before the system failed. If you’re experiencing any of these events, contact us so that we can service your unit. It’s often less expensive to have the system serviced and fixed rather than wait until it completely goes out on you.
Your Electric Bill is Unusually High
One of the first signs that something is majorly wrong with your heating system is when your electric bills suddenly go way up compared to how much they usually are in the winter. While utility companies do raise rates from time to time, this is usually done gradually. If your bill leaps up dramatically it may mean you’re having to use more and more heat just to make your home comfortably warm, a sign that your heater is no longer running efficiently. [Read: Reasons Your Utility Bill is Outrageously High]
Uneven Heating and Cold Spots
Does your heating system seem to work well in some areas of your home, while leaving other rooms or areas cold and drafty no matter how high you turn your thermostat? This is a common problem in homes with heating system ductwork issues, especially in older homes. It’s definitely worth having an expert come out to inspect your heater and ducts, in order to determine and fix the cause of the heating airflow issues. This way you will be able to fully enjoy your entire home in the winter, rather than just parts of it.
Cranking the Heat Higher and Higher
If you find yourself turning the heat up beyond what’s reasonable or typical for you just to have a halfway comfortable home, your heating system is definitely not working as efficiently as it should be. Having your furnace repaired will save you money in the long run on your electricity bills and help ensure your home stays comfortably toasty without having to turn the heat up quite so much.
Your Furnace Makes Crazy Noises
All heating systems make some noise, but a furnace in good repair should be relatively quiet. If your furnace has been getting louder lately, suddenly making new banging, clanking, or moaning type sounds, this is a definite sign something is probably about to go wrong with it. As old furnaces start to break down they tend to get much noisier.
Bad Air Quality
If the air in your home seems dusty or hazy no matter how much you clean, this is a sign that something’s wrong. This is particularly true if you or other members of your family have recently begun to show signs of respiratory illness or asthma. A furnace that isn’t working properly may be circulating dust, mildew, and other potential contaminants or allergens throughout your home. Your first step in this situation should be to change out the filter on your furnace but if this doesn’t work, definitely call a heating repair company.
Age of Your Heating System
Lastly, if your heating system is over ten years old, then it is time to start thinking about a replacement. No matter how well maintained your heating system is, it has a lifespan, and parts will naturally wear out. Regular maintenance may prolong the lifespan of your heating system, but eventually, it will become inefficient, unreliable, and cost you more in energy bills. Start planning a replacement with a professional technician.
Not sure your system’s age? We offer a one-time inspection where a certified technician will examine your system and let you know the estimated remaining lifespan. The cost of the inspection can be credited toward a new system if recommended.
Conclusion
These are a few of the signs you need heating repair. If you are wondering whether your system needs to be serviced, it probably does. Ignoring regular annual maintenance visits or delaying repairs can lead to costly breakdowns that leave your family in a chilly home. Give us a call at 301-663-0300 to schedule your service or contact us today.
