If your furnace breaks down during the coldest months in Annapolis, MD, it can leave you without heat, creating an uncomfortable situation. Even worse, a failing furnace could lead to carbon monoxide leaks or electrical hazards that pose fire risks. Don’t wait until it’s too late and you find yourself in a dangerous situation. Here are four warning signs that indicate your furnace needs an immediate fix:
Sudden and Unusual Noises
A properly functioning furnace should run quietly, aside from the usual hum or occasional minor clicking. Hearing loud banging, screeching, rattling or booming sounds could indicate loose components, motor issues or delayed ignition problems. Ignoring these noises can result in complete system failure or dangerous gas leaks.
Weak or No Heat Production
If your furnace is running but isn’t producing enough or no heat, it’s a sign of serious trouble. This issue can stem from a failing blower motor, clogged air filter or malfunctioning thermostat. Annapolis winters can be brutal, and a lack of heat could risk your family’s health, especially for young children or elderly residents.
Unexplained Increase in Energy Bills
An unexpected spike in your heating bills can signal your furnace is working harder than it should and requires a fix. This is often caused by a clogged filter, duct leaks or failing internal components. If left unaddressed, your energy costs will continue to rise, and your furnace could be at risk of total breakdown.
Yellow Pilot Light or Gas Smell
Do you use a gas furnace to warm your house? A gas furnace’s pilot light should always burn blue. If it turns yellow or flickers, this could be a sign of carbon monoxide leakage. Additionally, if you notice a rotten egg smell, there could be a gas leak, requiring immediate evacuation and emergency repair.
Don’t take chances with your safety. If your furnace shows any of these signs, call Coastal Heating & Air Conditioning Co., Inc. so our team can find and fix the problem immediately.
Image provided by Thinkstock
