When To Call for Professional Heater Repair
Cooler weather is on the way, so it is almost time to turn the air conditioner off and switch to the heater. A popular misconception about ACs and furnaces is that it is good that one system sits idle for half of the year. However, this isn’t true. Sitting idle allows moving parts to become lubricated and dirty.
Upon starting the heater at the beginning of the winter, many people will find that they need heater repairs to stay warm during the cooler months. Here are some signs that homeowners should watch out for that indicate professional heater repair is needed.
Energy Bills Are Too High
In the past, when energy prices were lower, homeowners may not have prioritized minimizing their bills. However, with rising energy prices and inflation impacting everyone's budgets, high energy costs are becoming a significant concern.
Luckily, high utility bills attributable to the heater don’t have to be permanent. This is often a sign of furnace problems that can be fixed. Some of the common problems that cause high energy bills are:
- Dirty air filters that impede airflow
- Dirty burners or pilot assemblies
- Thermostat problems
- Intake air problems
Contact experienced technicians for heater repairs at the first sign of rising energy bills to save costs, often in one visit. Schedule annual maintenance each fall to maintain energy efficiency and reduce expenses.
Unusual Sounds or Smells
Homeowners should pay attention to all their senses when maintaining their homes, as issues can be hidden. Detecting problems early is especially important for the heater.
Heaters are typically installed in areas such as garages, closets, or basements, which makes it challenging to visually detect issues. The most effective senses for identifying heater problems are sound and smell.
Furnace problems can produce various noises that may indicate issues. For example, screeching belts and thumping blower fans can create sounds noticeable enough to prompt a call for heater repairs. Additionally, rattling noises may suggest loose parts that could potentially fail.
The sense of smell can serve as an important indicator of issues in heating systems. A burnt odor may suggest dirty ductwork or heat exchangers and is often a preliminary sign of overheating in a furnace. Engaging a professional upon noticing unusual sounds or smells can help prevent more serious problems from developing.
Poor or Uneven Heating
Heaters are engineered to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the home based on the settings established by the thermostat. Any deviation from this expected performance may suggest that repairs to the heater are required.
Look for uncomfortable areas in the home, such as noticeable hot or cold spots. These may signal airflow or efficiency issues. It's best to hire a professional to handle any needed heating repairs.
About Lambert Heating & Air Conditioning
Lambert Heating & Air Conditioning is a highly-rated local HVAC contractor offering a no-surprise guarantee and upfront pricing. Their vetted teams help home and business owners keep their spaces warm and comfortable during the winter, ensuring every job is done right the first time—all while staying within budget. Call today for HVAC maintenance or heating repair in Downey, CA.
