Top 10 Signs Your Furnace or Boiler Needs Professional Maintenance

Imagine waking up to an icebox of a home on a cold winter morning. You crank up the thermostat, but the heat never seems to come on. Or, maybe you start noticing strange noises coming from your furnace. All of these are signs that something is wrong with your furnace. 

Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. In this article, we will discuss the ten most common signs that your furnace shows, indicating something is wrong. Let’s get started right away. 

1. Increase in energy bills 

Is your energy bills skyrocketing all of a sudden? If yes, then your furnace is trying to say something to you. One of the most common indicators of a problem is a sudden increase in energy consumption. This sudden spike in energy bills could be due to various reasons, such as a dirty filter, a clogged heat exchanger, or leaky ductwork. Hiring a home service professional can help identify the problem early on and perform the necessary repairs to restore efficiency,

2. Frequent power cycling 

If your furnace continuously cycles between on and off, then it could possibly be a sign of trouble. This may be due to a dirty filter, a low refrigerant charge, or a malfunctioning thermostat. If you are facing this issue, seek out a professional. A technician can easily pinpoint the issue and take the necessary actions to rectify the problem and bring your furnace back to its reliable self.

3. Yellow pilot light 

Do you see the pilot light on your furnace turning to a troubling hue of yellow? This subtle shift is a clear indicator that a problem is lurking within your heating system. The combustion process might be compromised due to a dirty burner, a clogged orifice, or insufficient oxygen supply. Ignoring changes to the pilot light could lead to even more significant problems. Contact your professional immediately to clean and adjust the pilot light, ensuring it burns as it should.

4. Unresponsive Thermostat

Is your thermostat unresponsive? This issue isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s a red flag signaling potential trouble within your furnace or boiler. The culprits could range from a faulty thermostat to a broken wire or issues with the control board. Don’t let this problem escalate. Take immediate action by calling a professional technician. They can diagnose the issue and complete the required repairs to restore your thermostat’s functionality.

5. Strange Noises

Do you hear anything unusual or unsettling from your boiler? These noises are more than just an annoyance; they’re clear signs of trouble. The source might be a loose part, a worn bearing, or even a cracked heat exchanger. Ignoring these sounds could lead to severe consequences. Act swiftly by reaching out to a professional technician who can help diagnose and resolve the problem. 

6. Excess Dust near Furnace Vents

If you have observed an excessive accumulation of dust near your furnace vents, it’s time to act. This clearly indicates a pressing issue with your heating system. A clogged and dusty filter restricts airflow and diminishes the efficiency of your furnace. Additionally, it contributes to the circulation of dust and allergens throughout your home, affecting your indoor air quality. 

7. Outdated Equipment

How old is your furnace? More than 15 years? It’s time to acknowledge the trouble that lies ahead. Aging heating systems are not only less efficient but also prone to frequent breakdowns. To alleviate future headaches and save on energy bills, consider investing in a new furnace or boiler. Modern systems offer improved efficiency and add years of dependable service, making it a sensible long-term investment. 

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8. Unusual Odor

Detecting peculiar odors like burning or gas emanating from your boiler is a sign of potential danger. This could signify a cracked heat exchanger, a gas leak, or other severe issues. Safety should be your top priority. Do not hesitate to contact a professional immediately when you notice unusual odors. Swift action can prevent hazardous situations and safeguard your home.

9. Leaks

The sight of any leaks originating from your furnace or boiler is unmistakable, indicating a significant issue. This could indicate a cracked heat exchanger, a leaky valve, or other significant problems. Time is of the essence in this situation. Do not delay; reach out to a professional without hesitation. Prompt attention can prevent further damage and potential hazards.

10. Slow Heating

Is your home taking an eternity to warm up? This is a clear indication of trouble brewing within your furnace or boiler. Possible culprits include a dirty filter, a clogged heat exchanger, or thermostat issues. Waiting for your home to heat up isn’t an option, especially during colder months. Take action now by contacting a professional. They can swiftly diagnose the problem and execute the necessary repairs to ensure your home heats up quickly and efficiently.

Wrapping up 

If you notice any of the signs listed above, it’s important to call a professional technician immediately. Ignoring these signs can lead to more serious problems and expensive repairs down the road. A professional technician can diagnose the problem and perform the necessary repairs to get your furnace or boiler back up and running in no time