Don’t Get Left in the Cold: Signs Your Heating System May Need Attention
As temperatures continue to drop and winter settles in, it’s important to pay attention to how well your furnace is keeping up. With freezing days becoming more frequent, now is the ideal time to notice any signs that your heating system may be struggling. If your furnace is having trouble maintaining comfort, showing signs of wear, or making unusual noises, scheduling a repair now can help prevent unexpected breakdowns when you need heat the most.
Here are four common indicators that your home’s forced-air heating equipment may be due for a repair.
Frequent Cycling
When your furnace is working at its best, it should only need to turn on periodically when your thermostat signals that the temperature is too low. Frequent cycling can be a sign that your furnace is malfunctioning. This issue may be caused by overheating, an oversized furnace or thermostat malfunctions. If left unresolved, frequent cycling can lead to faster wear and tear, increased fuel consumption or a total breakdown.
Strange Noises
Generally speaking, a well-operating furnace should run relatively quietly. If you’re hearing popping, clanging, squealing or creaking from your furnace or through your vents, then there’s likely a mechanical issue. A part may have become loose, and a system failure could be around the corner.
Increasing Fuel Consumption
Has your natural gas, propane or heating oil usage increased steadily, year over year? A slight spike in fuel consumption during winter is typically normal, however, a continuous uptick in fuel use over time may indicate that your furnace’s efficiency is taking a hit. It needs professional service.
Not sure how much fuel you’re using? If you get your heating oil or propane from Mirabito Energy Products, reach out to us, and we can provide you with delivery data.
Dust Coming from Your Vents
Dust and dirt in your home may be a fact of life, but if they’re coming from your vents, that could indicate that your furnace’s air filter isn’t doing its job. It could also mean that grit is accumulating in your heating equipment, impeding its operations. An HVAC technician can swap out your filter and clean your system, plus perform any necessary calibrations.
Consider a Mirabito Service Membership for Easy, Worry-Free Maintenance
The best way to get regular, top-tier maintenance and save money on repair service is to protect your equipment with a Mirabito service plan. This coverage includes an annual tune-up and discounts on repairs, parts and diagnostics.
Reach out to the Mirabito team today for more information on our service plans and to arrange service for your furnace. We are proud to service households in the Finger Lakes, Central and Western New York and parts of Vermont, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Connecticut and Rhode Island.