Expert Heating Repair in Westminster
Most fuel-burning furnaces run on natural gas, propane, or heating oil and can last between 15 and 20 years. On the other hand, electrical furnaces can last up to 30 years. Maintaining these systems on an annual basis is a great way to significantly reduce your risk of experiencing a breakdown. However, you can’t eliminate the risk of a furnace breaking down completely.
In fact, you’ll likely need to call for a professional furnace repair service for one of the following issues:
- Not starting
- Not blowing hot air
- Strange noises
- Odd odors
- Short cycling
One of the most frustrating issues is when your furnace won’t start. First, it’s best to check your thermostat to ensure it’s functioning properly. If it is, then there’s an issue with the ignition components of your furnace. The electronic ignitor may be faulty, or the pilot light may have gone out.
If your furnace seems to be running fine, but no air is coming out of your air vents, it’s an indication that your blower components are malfunctioning. This malfunction could be something as simple as a broken fan belt or, more seriously, your blower motor completely failing.
When your furnace produces strange noises, it signals something is wrong with your system. Typically, the type of noise will provide you insight as to what the problem is. For example, a squealing noise is a prevalent indicator of a worn-out fan belt. On the other hand, a rattling noise will usually mean that there’s a loose component somewhere inside your furnace.
Another cause for concern is when your furnace starts producing odd smells. Anything musty indicates mold or mildew growth. A metallic burning smell usually results from a faulty electrical connection. If you smell rotten eggs, it means you have a dangerous gas leak.
Short cycling occurs when your furnace turns on, runs for only a few minutes, and then shuts back off. This quick run cycle often results from your furnace’s built-in safety mechanisms shutting it off. Typically, the sensor believes your furnace is overheating, so it shuts your entire unit off to protect it. This overheating could be due to something as simple as a dirty air filter or a more complex problem.