When the weather starts to get cold outside, most people rely on their furnaces to keep them comfortable and warm, to prevent seasonal issues, such as burst pipes. However, since the furnace is going to remain turned off for about half the year, the unit may become damaged and homeowners don’t even realize it.

When issues occur with a unit, it is essential to schedule furnace repair right away. Keep reading to learn some of the top signs professional Heating Services are needed.

Strange Furnace Odors

Sometimes, a furnace will smell like the fuel that is used to power them. This is especially the case when they are turned on for the first time during the year. Usually, furnace smells will dissipate as the unit continues to run. However, if a homeowner begins to smell a stronger fuel odor near the unit, if the odor appears suddenly, or if a scent does not go away after a little time has passed, the issue could be more serious. At this point, it may be time to call a professional for help, and sometimes, new furnace installation will be necessary.

Smells from a furnace can be caused by many issues, from excessive dust to a gas leak. It is best to have a professional evaluate the odor to figure out what the exact cause is.

Difficulty Starting the Furnace

As a furnace gets older, a homeowner may have issues turning it on and ensuring it continues to run. If someone has tried several times to start the unit or has to restart it throughout the day, repairs are likely needed. Often, these types of functionality problems occur because of a damaged thermostat or disconnected wire. Replacing the affected component should help to fix the issue.

Discolored Pilot Light

Be sure to pay attention to the color of the pilot light. When a pilot light is working properly, it will look blue. If the pilot light happens to be a different color, particularly yellow, it may indicate a ventilation issue.

The color-changing that occurs when certain gases, such as carbon monoxide do not dissipate regularly can be dangerous. If the problem is not addressed by a professional, it can cause health issues for everyone in the house. It may even result in the unit being more combustible.

Insufficient Heat

A clear sign that a furnace needs repairs is if the unit is not doing its job properly. If a furnace has stopped producing heat or if it only produces a very low level of heat, regardless of what the thermostat is set on, it is a good idea to schedule repairs.

One of the most common causes of insufficient heat is leaking ductwork. This lets treated air escape and then faulty thermostats will not communicate with the furnace properly.

Persistent Sounds

No furnace is going to operate completely silently. However, if there are persistent or loud sounds, it is an indication of a more serious issue. Be sure to pay attention to the sounds heard, and if it is possible, describe these to the HVAC technician when they arrive for the inspection. Whistling or squealing sounds may be caused by fan or belt problems. If there are groaning or banging sounds, the issue may be loose internal components or something that is broken.

Low Air Quality

The furnace system is going to have a direct impact on the air quality in a home. If the system is not maintained properly, it can begin to move bacteria, dirt, and other types of foreign particles in the home along with the air that has been heated. Sometimes, a person may notice there is more dust in the air, along with people who are dealing with colds, coughs, and several other respiratory issues. If someone in the family has allergies, then the foreign particles in the air may cause headaches, watery eyes, and itchiness.

In some situations, handling furnace-related issues that are causing poor air quality is as simple as just replacing the filter. However, in more serious situations, it may be necessary to have the ducts cleaned professionally, too.

When it comes to furnace issues, don’t wait to call for help. The longer someone waits to call a repair technician for help with furnace problems, the more serious the issue will get. Be sure to keep the information here in mind to minimize issues and feel confident that the problem is resolved, no matter what it may be. Being informed is the best way to handle these issues.