Winter is definitely still plugging along, and we will all need our furnaces for several weeks still. So, what kind of shape is yours in? Is it ready to get you through the rest of winter? If you had it professionally maintained this past fall, and took care of any pending repair needs at this time, then you can probably say with confidence that yes, your furnace is going to make it through just fine.
But what if you skipped maintenance, have an aging furnace, or simply don’t know the signs that you might need repairs on your furnace? Use our guide to furnace issues to better understand the red flags and get ahead of potential breakdowns.
Well, that’s what we are here for! We want to help you ensure that your furnace will, indeed, last through the rest of the heating season. One of the best ways to do this is by staying on top of repair needs, even though you might stop using your furnace as much in a few weeks. Read on as we uncover the signs that it’s time for you to call for this service.
When should you consider replacing your furnace instead of repairing it?
- If your furnace is over 15‑20 years old and technology improvements mean newer models are much more efficient.
- When repair costs exceed about half the cost of a new unit.
- If you frequently need repairs for major components (heat exchanger, blower motor, etc.).
- When your utility bills are rising sharply despite regular maintenance.
- If your existing furnace can’t maintain comfortable temperatures even after tune‑ups and repairs.
Loud or Unusual Noises
If you’re using a furnace for your home heating, you’ll always hear some sounds when it’s running. This will include a rush when it starts up, potentially a gentle rattling of ductwork as the temperature fluctuates inside of it, and the whoosh of air going through the vents.
But if you hear anything that’s outside of the normal day-to-day sounds, it’s cause for concern. This can include noises such as clanging, banging, or even excessive clicking as the system cycles down. Clicking can be an indication that there’s a crack in your heat exchanger, and the clicking comes from that heat exchanger contracting as it cools down, this could end up being a really dangerous problem, so it’s important not to ignore it! A burning smell could mean trouble and should always be taken seriously, especially when paired with strange sounds.
Strange Smells
The only time you should ever technically smell anything coming from your furnace is the very beginning of the heating season. You’ll usually smell dirt and dust burning off of the jets and the heat exchangers when you turn on the system for the first time. This won’t be the case if you had the system maintained, and it is thoroughly cleaned during this service, but it’s still a possibility.
When you should worry is when the smell doesn’t dissipate after a day or two–especially if it is an acrid odor. This can mean that you have damaged electrical components that are smoldering, or even a natural gas leak (which will smell like rotten eggs). Remember, even gas furnaces have electrical components, so even if you know you don’t have a gas leak, it’s still worth having your system checked!
Short-Cycling
Short-cycling is when a furnace (or an air conditioner, for that matter) cycles on and off rapidly instead of completing a full heating (or cooling) cycle. Not only is short-cycling the symptom of an already existing problem, but it can also cause further problems, exacerbating wear and tear. If your furnace won’t start up, or keeps shutting down, call a professional right away to avoid long-term damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question: What are warning signs that my furnace may not last through the rest of winter?
Answer: Some signs include loud or unusual noises like clanging or banging, strange or persistent smells, and short-cycling, where the furnace turns on and off rapidly. These issues can indicate underlying problems that need attention before they lead to system failure.
Question: Why is short-cycling a problem for a furnace?
Answer: Short-cycling puts unnecessary strain on furnace components, causing them to wear out faster. It also reduces energy efficiency, increases utility costs, and may prevent your home from staying consistently warm. It’s usually a sign the system needs repair or adjustment.
Question: What might cause a lingering burning smell from a furnace, and when should I be concerned?
Answer: A brief burning smell can be normal at the start of the season, but if it lingers, it might mean electrical issues or even a gas problem. If the smell continues for more than a day or two, it’s important to have a professional check it out.
Question: How do unusual noises from a furnace indicate danger or needed maintenance?
Answer: Sounds like clanging, banging, or clicking can signal loose or damaged parts. Clicking noises may suggest heat exchanger problems. These issues, if ignored, can lead to breakdowns or safety hazards, so it’s best to get them inspected early.
Question: What should I do to ensure my furnace can get through the rest of winter safely?
Answer: Check for any odd smells or sounds, replace dirty filters, keep the area around the furnace clean, and schedule a professional tune-up if needed. Preventive care now can avoid inconvenient and costly problems later in the season.
At Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc., your comfort is our promise! To set up an appointment in the Cedar Falls area, give us a call at the number above, email customerservice@daltonphc.com or schedule an appointment online for quality heating repairs and more!