The polar vortex that has brought a deadly cold snap to the United States is stealing the headlines. Luckily for homeowners in Hampton, South Carolina, the sub-zero temperatures and stinging winds haven’t reached far enough south to affect the weather drastically. The thermometer readings have dipped, though, and the demand for heating has risen. If you notice these three signs your furnace isn’t functioning properly, don’t wait to have it repaired:
Loud Sounds or Bad Smells
Do you hear a high-pitched squeal coming from your furnace? If so, the system’s motor belt has either slipped or frayed. A scraping sound indicates worn out ball bearings. No matter the sound, turn off the furnace and seek professional help.
Like loud sounds, bad smells can also signal a problem with your heating system. If you notice a burning smell in your home, it could be because of a clogged filter or frayed wiring. Change the filter to see if this resolves the issue.
Frequent Cycling
If you hear your heating system turn on and off more than three times per hour, it’s cycling too often. As a result, it’s causing more wear and tear and wasting energy. Change your furnace’s filter and check the thermostat to see if that stops the frequent cycling. If it doesn’t, you might have an airflow problem that requires professional attention.
Not Producing Warm Air
Of course, the most noticeable sign your furnace isn’t functioning properly is when it doesn’t produce warm air. This could be for numerous reasons, including a malfunctioning thermostat, cracked heat exchanger or faulty electric ignition. If you have a gas furnace, it could be because of a problem with the pilot control. Don’t wait to repair it.
The longer you wait to have your furnace repaired, the more damage you’ll sustain. You’ll also put the health and comfort of your family at risk. Contact Coastal Air Technologies, Inc. at (803) 914-0900 to schedule a closer look today.
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