If you have a heating system that has not been maintained for the past couple of years, it may be possible that you may have a tough time this winter. Therefore, it is only natural that you take care of it before the winter comes. A comfortable, cozy and warm home in chilly winter requires a healthy heating system.
Signs That Your Heating System Needs Maintenance
A good heating system warms the house without over-consumption of electric energy or gas and does not endanger the air quality inside either. Such a heating system does not overuse the internal oxygen supply needed for combustion required inside the house. Although the durability and toughness of your heating system depends on its quality and make, there are certain fast and easy signs that can give you clues about your heating system health.
Sign #1: Your heating system is getting old.
You need to compare the age of your furnace with the average age of furnaces which in today’s house hold is 16 to 20 years. If your furnace is close to this age or older than this, it is time that you start looking for a new heating system. It is a good idea to start shopping as soon as you discover this rather than to have a panic replacement which may not allow you to make the best decisions.
Sign#2: Your gas and electric bills are going up.
Soaring gas and energy prices are not the only causes of rising electric and gas bills. If your furnace is too old, it can also cause a steady increase in electric or gas bills, especially if it is poorly maintained. Use of the heating system over time can reduce its efficiency such that it requires more energy to heat the house making the gas and electric bills to rise. This is also an indication that you may need heating system replacement.
Sign#3: The thermostat is not working properly.
Are some rooms in your house too cold and others warmer? Do you have to constantly adjust the thermostat to keep yourself comfortable? This is a sign that your heating system is wearing out and requires maintenance or replacement.
Sign#4: The thermostat flame has changed from blue to yellow.
If your furnace thermostat flame is yellow and not blue, this is an indication that poisonous carbon monoxide is being produced inside your furnace. This can lead to health hazards because the furnace may be getting too old and starting to break down.
Sign#5: Your furnace is noisy.
Old furnaces tend to make noises when they are around the end of their working age. Have you heard any squealing, popping, rattling or banging noises from your furnace? Another type of noise to look out for is when your furnace blower runs loud. If your burner starts to throw cold air occasionally or it shuts down frequently, it is a sign that it requires repair or replacement.
Sign#6: There are changes in your family’s health.
Old heat furnaces may develop cracks inside the heat exchanger sides. Small quantities of poisonous Carbon monoxide gas may release into your home which results in serious health symptoms. This may result in frequent headaches, a burning in the nose or eyes, nausea, disorientation and flu like symptoms. If such conditions are noticed in family members immediately shut down the furnace and open the doors and windows in your house. Proceed to call gas service technicians. The cracks inside the heat exchangers are quite undetectable which is why it is not advisable to wait for their occurrence in an old furnace.
Sign#7: Your home is dry and dusty.
Some old heating furnaces lack the ability to keep the air clean. The air inside your house may be stuffy and stale during winter due to the old age of your heating system. This is another sign that the heating system in your house needs attention.
A well-maintained and newer heating system can help keep your home healthy and comfortable. If your heating system is older, it is important to monitor the system and look for signs of failure. Not sure if your furnace needs to be replaced? Call us today for a professional heating system inspection.