Winter forecasts are out, and according to experts, the Lone Star State may have a wetter winter. And as you may know (or experienced), rain often makes things feel much colder.
That's a good enough reason to catch and fix furnace problems before they worsen and leave you without heating. Because even though experts predict Texas to have near-normal winter temps, they're still just predictions. And while snow is unlikely in Point Blank, TX, it can still get pretty chilly.
To that end, we created this guide to help you deal with heating woes. Read on to discover what to do if you notice signs of a broken furnace.
Know the Signs of a Heating Emergency
If your gas furnace smells like rotten eggs, that's a solid sign of a heating emergency. It's likely leaking natural gas, which can explode if allowed to build up in an enclosed space,
In that case, close your gas valve and switch off your furnace immediately. If you can, open as many windows as possible and ensure everyone, including pets, goes outside. Then, inform your gas supplier about the potential leak and call a furnace repair pro.
Other indications of a heating emergency are loud and weird noises, such as banging and rattling. A component like the blower may have come loose, bashing against other parts. Turn off your system immediately and have an HVAC expert inspect and address the problem.
Clean Air Filters and Vents
Suppose you don't have an emergency, but your furnace isn't heating your home adequately. For instance, it feels like it's producing too little warm air.
That doesn't mean your heater broke, but it may be dealing with impaired airflow. If not fixed promptly, this can lead to other HVAC problems like early failure and high energy bills.
The first thing you can do is wash or replace your furnace air filter. Moving forward, inspect them once a month and clean or change them if they have significant debris build-up. You should also clean your air vents and ensure nothing blocks them (e.g., furniture or appliances).
Schedule Professional Furnace Maintenance or Repairs
Your furnace works hard during the peak heating season, and all it asks in return is a yearly tune-up. Ideally, you should schedule one every fall.
Proper and regular maintenance keeps your system efficient and performing at its peak. An efficient furnace doesn't work harder than it should, so it's not as susceptible to early wear and tear. It may still need minor repairs (e.g., replacing worn gears and seals), but it'll be less likely to break down.
Address Furnace Problems Promptly
Many furnace problems often start due to clogged air filters. So, if you experience poor airflow or uneven heating, check, change, or clean your air filter. Better yet, invest in an HVAC maintenance plan to prevent these issues in the first place.
Burnside Air Conditioning, Heating & Indoor Air Quality can provide all your needed HVAC services. As a family-owned business operating for over 60 years, you can rely on our expertise in delivering high-quality services.
So, speak with us today! We'll have your heating system ready to keep your Point Blank home cozy and warm.