The best way to ensure efficient furnace performance is to schedule annual maintenance, but what if something goes wrong between service calls? Knowing what to look and listen for when furnace issues arise will help you know when a furnace repair call is necessary.
Some common issues that may signal the onset of furnace problems include:
- Difficulty in reaching desired temperatures
- Inconsistent temperatures from room to room
- Humidity fluctuations
- Increased or abnormal system noise
- Backdrafting
- Increased levels of carbon monoxide (detection device required)
While some of these issues may be explained by other issues, such as duct leaks or ventilation problems, many of them will require furnace repair. On the more extreme end of the spectrum, you may even find that your furnace has ceased to function. In this case, try these troubleshooting tips before calling for furnace repair:
- Check your power source to ensure a blown fuse or thrown breaker isn’t the problem.
- Check to ensure that you’ve actually turned on the heat and adjusted your thermostat to a setting that would trigger furnace function.
Another important aspect of furnace function is age. If your furnace is nearing or over 15 years of age, it may be time to look at replacement options. Even in top condition, older furnaces just don’t measure up to today’s models in terms of efficiency. There are two reasons for this:
- Minimum annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) ratings are now higher (80 percent). Even if your furnace carries the minimum AFUE by today’s standards, a high-efficiency upgrade could cut energy waste by as much as half.
- Older systems may no longer be properly sized. Assuming your system was sized correctly to begin with, efficiency improvements to your home over the years significantly affect your heating load. This can lead to an over-sized system, improper cycling and higher energy costs.
Whether you’re in need of furnace repair or replacement in your Yuma area home, our trained service technicians are here to help. For an expert consultation, contact Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Companytoday.
Our goal is to help educate our customers about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems). For more information about furnaces and other HVAC topics, download our free Home Comfort Resource guide.
Hansberger Refrigeration & Electric Co services the Yuma area in Arizona. Visit our website to see our special offers and get started today!
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