With warm temperatures in the forecast, it may not seem like fall is just around the corner. But soon enough, you’ll need to turn on your heating system for the first time. Unfortunately, it’s often at the start of the heating season that homeowners realize their heating systems aren’t working as well as they should.
From a system that’s short cycling to one that’s blowing lukewarm air, let’s go over four of the most common early-season heating repairs we see. You can try and avoid the need for heating repair in Keedysville, MD by scheduling heating system maintenance now with our Super Techs.
1. Unusual Noises
Every homeowner knows the sounds your heating system should make. That’s why unusual, loud, and sudden noises can be highly concerning. Examples of unusual noises that indicate a repair need include banging, screeching, knocking, rattling, squealing, grinding, or repeated clicking.
Banging and knocking noises could mean a part has come loose and is banging around in the system. Screeching or squealing could mean a fan belt is loose or that mechanical parts need lubrication. If you own a gas furnace, persistent clicking could mean the ignition system isn’t working properly. This issue should be looked at immediately by our Super Techs.
2. Unusual Smells
When you turn on your heating system for the first time in a while, it’s normal to smell the slight scent of burning dust. The smell is caused by dust and dirt burning off as the furnace starts up for the first time. But if you have a gas furnace and smell the scent of gas, turn the system off immediately and contact us for repair. There could be a gas leak somewhere in the system.
3. Reduced or Lukewarm Airflow
Is your heat pump or furnace not delivering the heavy blast of hot air that you’re used to? Reduced airflow or lukewarm/cool air are causes for concern. The first thing to check is the air filter. A clean, new one should be put in place at the start of the heating season.
If the air filter is fine, these issues can be caused by various things such as a broken motor, bent fan blade, cracked fan belt, an electrical issue, or ductwork issues. With a long heating season ahead of you, you don’t want to pay an excessive amount on utilities for a heating system that isn’t working efficiently.
4. System Won’t Turn On
If your system doesn’t turn on, it could be a thermostat issue. Make sure the thermostat is set to heating mode and the batteries are working. You can try setting the temperature a few degrees higher than the room temperature to see if the furnace turns on. A faulty thermostat can prevent a heating system from communicating with it to turn on.
Heating system problems at the start of the heating season can be stressful. Let us take care of your heating system so you can look forward to months of strong performance from it.
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