The average use of natural gas for heating in Canadian homes is 88.4 Gigajoules per year. Alberta is the province with the highest usage at 100.3 Gigajoules per year.
Many factors affect how much natural gas your home might end up using, and one of them is how well your furnace is functioning.
A properly functioning furnace not only keeps you warm but also ensures indoor air quality and energy efficiency.
However, like any mechanical system, furnaces can develop issues over time. Recognizing the signs that furnace repair is necessary will help to prevent major breakdowns, increase its lifespan, and maintain a comfortable living environment.
In this article, we'll explore some of the key signs that indicate furnace repair is imminent.
Unusual Noises
If you start hearing strange, loud, or persistent noises coming from your furnace, it's a clear indication that something is amiss. Sounds to watch out for:
Rattling
Banging
Grinding
Squealing
This could be due to loose components, worn-out belts, or damaged bearings. Ignoring them can lead to further damage and increased repair costs.
Inconsistent Heating
If you notice that some areas of your home are warmer than others, or if the temperature never seems to reach the desired level, your furnace might be struggling. Inconsistent heating can be caused by issues with the thermostat, air circulation, or a malfunctioning heating element.
Increased Energy Bills
A sudden spike in your energy bills without a change in usage patterns could signal that your furnace is not operating efficiently. Reduced efficiency can result from:
Clogged filters
Malfunctioning components
Improper combustion
A professional inspection and repair can restore your furnace's energy efficiency and save you money in the long run.
Frequent Cycling
If your furnace is turning on and off more frequently than usual, it's a sign of a problem. This "short cycling" can strain the system.
It also decreases its efficiency and leads to premature wear and tear. Causes of short cycling include issues with the thermostat, air filters, or the blower motor.
Strange Odors
Unpleasant or unusual odours emanating from your furnace could indicate various issues. A burning smell might point to a clogged filter or overheating components. A musty odour could signal mould growth in the system.
Addressing these odours promptly is crucial for your indoor air quality and safety.
Yellow Pilot Light
If your furnace's pilot light is yellow instead of blue, it could be a sign of incomplete combustion.
This can lead to the production of harmful gases like carbon monoxide. A blue flame is an indication of proper combustion. While a yellow flame requires immediate attention from a professional technician.
Cold Air Blowing
If your furnace is blowing cold or cool air instead of warm air, it's a clear indication of a malfunction. This could be due to issues with the heating element, pilot light, or gas supply. A professional technician can diagnose the problem and provide the necessary repairs.
Edmonton Furnace Repair for Your Home
Furnace maintenance isn't something a lot of homeowners think of first when it comes to their homes. However, it should be.
If you notice any of the signs mentioned above popping up in your home, then it's time to call a furnace maintenance company. Set an appointment with Thermo-Tech Mechanical Services Ltd for furnace repair.