Signs of a Failing Furnace. We may sound like broken records, but we cannot overemphasize the importance of scheduled furnace maintenance. Furnaces should have yearly safety inspections and cleanings to find any potential dangers or safety issues. These check-ups allow expert technicians to catch problems early. Just the same, homeowners should know the signs of a failing furnace to identify common issues.
Clogged Air Filters
The lifespan of a HVAC air filter ranges from one to six months, depending on the filter quality and use. A clogged filter will affect air flow throughout the house. It will also prevent fresh air from entering the unit and cause overheating that can lead to premature failures. This is one of the simplest and most common fixes.
Venting and flues
Air seals around duct shafts and flues keep conditioned air from leaking into unconditioned space. These should be inspected for blockages and deficiencies.
Carbon monoxide dangers
Over time, the galvanized metal will rust and corrode. Signs of rust or leaks could indicate the need to replace your furnace flue or venting. If left untreated, you can risk leaking smoke and dangerous gases like carbon monoxide into your home.
High efficiency furnace drains
A clean, efficiently burning gas furnace produces very small amounts of carbon monoxide. As the furnace continues to run without maintenance, it begins to burn dirtier and hotter, increasing the chances of cracks. We always recommend households install carbon monoxide detectors regardless of the age or condition of your unit. Even a small leak can release deadly levels of these gases. If anyone suffers from frequent headaches, burning eyes, nausea, or disorientation when inside the home, call a professional immediately.
Furnaces with 90 percent or more efficiency have become more and more popular. A high efficiency furnace can truly cut down on utilities expenses. However, they produce a high amount of condensation, requiring draining systems. The condensation from high-efficiency furnaces is highly acidic. If the water sits in a trap and evaporates, it increases its acidity and corrosive effects. This can rust out a furnace very quickly! That’s why it is imperative to conduct regular inspections.
Signs of an urgent problem
Unsure when you last had a technician inspect your furnace? You may wonder how to decide if you have a problem warranting an immediate inspection. The following questions can help determine whether a serious problem is already brewing:
- Has the furnace been maintained recently, or in the last several years?
- Is my system noisy or does it smell?
- Have my utility bills gone up?
- Have I lost heating air pressure in my rooms farther from the furnace?
- Did my air conditioning give me issues this summer?
- Does the furnace no longer heat your home or office as well as it used to?
- Has the Ventec tech ever said think about a new furnace soon?
If it’s been a while since a professional has checked your furnace, what the heck? Call Ventec! We’re available 24/7 for emergencies at 412-793-0661 or email us at sales@ventecrhvac.com! Our technicians verify proper operation and performance. They give homeowners peace of mind that their system is safe and operating at peak efficiency. Ventec has smart financing options, too!
