As the weather slowly but surely cools off, we’ll all be using our heating systems more and more. This should increase your comfort, of course, but what if you discover that you’re not as comfortable as you used to be when you use your heater? What if you’re using it the same way you did last year, but you’re still chilly or uncomfortable?
Well, then you have a right to be concerned. It sounds like something is wrong with the operation of your heating system, but what could it be? Read on as we uncover some indicators that something is wrong with your heater, what may be the cause, and what to do about it.
You Have Higher Than Average Utility Bills
It of course makes sense that the more you use your heating system, the more your energy bills will rise. But what you shouldn’t see is your energy bills rising drastically higher than they were this same time last year, or what your neighbors are paying, despite comparable use.
This is a sign that something in your home is working inefficiently, and if the drastic spike coincides with your heating system use, it could very well be your furnace to blame.
Lack of maintenance, components that need repair, and ductwork damage can all contribute to an inefficient heating system. It’s time to call a pro to get to the bottom of it!
You Hear Strange Sounds
One of the many methods you can use to detect if something is amiss with your heater is to listen for odd noises. You and your family know better than anyone else the everyday noises that your heating system makes. So if something sounds “off,” you’re right to be concerned.
Whether you hear screeching, banging, clanging, or anything else that makes it seem like something is out of sorts, it’s time to call us.
Something Stinks
Another sign that something might be wrong with your heater is an acrid stench, like something is burning. It’s a sign that the heater is overheating and/or there’s a problem with the electrical components.
However, if you turned your heater on for the first time this season and noticed a slight burning smell for the first few hours, you were likely only smelling dust burning off of the coils and vents as the furnace cycled on.
Your System Has Low Airflow
When you go into the various rooms of your home, do you notice that the airflow seems weaker in some areas than others? This likely indicates a problem with your heater, or maybe even the ductwork.
Low airflow can happen if you have breached ductwork that’s letting conditioned air escape. It can also happen if you have a heat pump that’s leaking refrigerant. Whatever the cause, we have the solution!
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team if you notice anything out of the ordinary with the operation of your heater, especially if you have a gas-powered system. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Look to “The Guys in the Big Red Trucks” for your heating repair needs. Contact Sierra Pacific Home & Comfort, Inc. today!