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Winter can be a tough season if your furnace stops functioning correctly. It is crucial to identify potential warning signs that indicate when servicing is required for your system.
Any unusual sounds should never go unnoticed in a home with children. Any sound that seems out-of-place should be directly reported just in case it signals imminent danger.
If you notice anything concerning, it’s best to act promptly – for dependable furnace repair in Thornton, CO, consider contacting a professional HVAC provider like IMS Heating & Air.
1. Do I need a new furnace?
Furnaces usually last between 20 and 30 years, so if yours is nearing this mark, it might be wise to replace it.
Strange noises like popping, rattling, humming, clicking, or booming could be telltale signs. That something is amiss with your furnace and could result in higher energy bills and additional repair bills.
Cobweb-like streaks around your vents could be a telltale sign that your furnace isn’t properly circulating air. Leading to elevated levels of carbon monoxide, which is dangerously toxic.
Moreover, strange odors coming from it could also indicate the need for professional assistance immediately.
2. What type of furnace do I need?
If you are searching for a new furnace, numerous choices are available. Consider such aspects as which blower is used to distribute warm air throughout your home and what fuel source would best meet your needs. Some are powered by gas, oil, or electricity, while others use alternative sources like biomass as their primary fuel.
Make sure that your new furnace fits into the right size for your home by consulting an HVAC professional to select an appropriate furnace based on duct sizes, insulation levels, and other relevant details that make sense in terms of price and functionality.
Furnaces with higher AFUE ratings will be more energy efficient and cost less to operate. However, they may be more expensive upfront.
Your choice of furnace will depend on your comfort needs and requirements. A variable-speed blower, for instance, helps evenly distribute heat while remaining quieter than single-stage fans.
3. How old is my furnace?
Knowledge of your furnace’s age is invaluable when planning repairs or replacement at a future date. To do this, look at past paperwork or look for stickers on it that show its age.
Many HVAC contractors leave behind a sticker after performing annual maintenance, with information such as the date of installation and service history that’s easy to decipher – such as its age. This data can help determine your unit’s age.
4. How much will the furnace repair cost?
Furnace repair costs vary based on which component needs repairing or replacing; replacing a control board can cost about $600.
Squealing sounds from your furnace usually indicate that its motor belt has become loose or damaged; replacing this belt usually costs around $150.
Home warranty plans often cover heating repair needs, while adding equipment-breakdown protection can help cover unexpected repair expenses and help cover furnace replacement should it become necessary.
5. Do I need furnace maintenance?
Most furnace manufacturers recommend annual maintenance performed by a qualified technician, and some warranties include damages caused by lack of regular care will not be covered.
Maintenance should include regularly changing and cleaning air filters, checking the pilot light (it should always burn blue), testing combustion gas vent systems for blockages or leaks, and inspecting access doors and fresh air intake grills/louvers to make sure they seal properly. To prevent carbon monoxide entering living spaces which could potentially pose health concerns.
6. What type of furnace maintenance do I need?
Regular maintenance of your furnace ensures it runs cleanly and efficiently and protects against carbon monoxide leaks that could become dangerous and fire hazards.
Air filters should be regularly replaced and should be checked for signs of deterioration. Furthermore, their blower motor must turn freely without slipping and may need lubricating regularly.
According to manufacturer and city codes, the combustion flue must be free from debris and animals, regularly brushing the burner and inspecting or cleaning its flame sensor.