Never forget about your furnace! 48% of the country relies on gas-powered appliances for their home heating. Most people use a gas or electric furnace in order to keep themselves warm.
You may have had your furnace in Port Saint Lucie for years, and you may think it will last for decades. But it can fall apart before you know it. If you want to keep your HVAC system intact this winter, you need to know when to order furnace repair.
What are signs that you need immediate repairs? How should you respond to gas leaks or other emergencies? Are there any furnace problems you can fix by yourself?
Answer these questions and you can have a warm and comfortable winter in Port Saint Lucie this year. Here are five signs you need furnace repair.
1. Unusual Odors
Your furnace may create an odor reminiscent of the fuel they use. This is okay when you turn your furnace on for the first time this year. But if you continue to smell fuel around your unit, the unit may be leaking, which can cause a fire.
Your unit should also not smell like smoke, chemicals, or other toxic materials. Turn your furnace off immediately and call a furnace company near you.
2. Discolored Pilot Lights
A healthy pilot light will be blue, suggesting that your furnace is receiving a steady amount of fuel. A red or orange pilot light suggests that gases are not dissipating properly through your furnace.
This can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning or fires. Turn your furnace off, disconnect it from its fuel source, and order furnace services.
3. Low Heat
Many furnace issues can prevent your system from providing heat. You may have leaks in your vents, keeping hot air from entering the rooms you are in. You can inspect your vents and use screws and nails to keep the panels together.
Your furnace may be running low on fuel. Turn your system off and then restock the fuel supply. If your vents seem fine and your furnace has fuel, ask someone to come in and inspect your system.
4. Loud Noises
Your furnace may make noises as fuel burns and air circulates through your home. But furnace problems may create very loud noises that can disrupt your sleep and make it hard to focus. If you hear squeaking or banging noises, you need to get help.
5. Low Air Quality
Your furnace will impact the quality of your air. If your furnace is dirty and contains dust and bacteria, these substances will enter your air supply.
Clean your furnace multiple times a month during the winter. Swap out clogged filters with new ones, vacuum your vents, and inspect your air for its quality. Turn your furnace off if you ever detect dangerous chemicals or gases in the air.
When You Should Order Furnace Repair
A furnace repair may occur sooner rather than later. Unusual odors and discolored pilot lights suggest your furnace has a gas leak. Low heat, loud noises, and low air quality can indicate mechanical problems.
Turn your furnace off so it does not develop more damage. You should check your system and make sure your furnace has the right amount of fuel. If you notice a loose panel, you can tighten it into place.
You should then get help from furnace professionals in Florida. Kuebler Mechanical serves furnace owners in the Port Saint Lucie area. Contact us today.
