If you’ve been noticing an odd smell, a squealing sound or higher energy bills, it’s time to get your furnace repaired. A timely repair can reduce damage, save money and improve comfort.
For example, a squealing noise may indicate the blower belt has slipped. A technician at FURNACE REPAIR CINCINNATI can easily slide it back into place or replace it.
Costs and Estimates
The overall cost of a furnace repair can vary considerably, depending on the complexity of the issue and the price of replacement parts. Furnace repairs are also influenced by the region in which you live, as labor and parts costs tend to be higher in metropolitan areas. Furnace repair costs also tend to increase during the winter, when demand for HVAC services peaks and technicians are in high demand.
The age of your furnace can significantly impact repair and replacement costs. The older a furnace is, the more likely it is to need costly and time-consuming repairs. Investing in a newer heating system can help reduce the need for repairs, and may even save you money in the long run through reduced energy costs.
Your heating system’s fuel type can also influence repair and replacement costs. Natural gas furnaces typically require more complex components than propane or oil-based systems, which can add to the cost of repairs and replacements. If your furnace is still under warranty, some of the repair or replacement expenses might be covered, reducing your out-of-pocket costs.
Whether your furnace runs on propane, natural gas, or electricity, some of its key components are the same. These include the transformer (which converts high-voltage electricity to a lower level suitable for your furnace), burners, and draft inducer motor. The flame sensors on your furnace can also be expensive to replace if they get damaged.
A faulty thermostat can cause your furnace to stop working, but it is typically inexpensive to fix. You can also improve your home’s efficiency by replacing your old thermostat with a smart thermostat, which offers programmable features and remote control.
If your furnace is leaking water, the cost to fix the problem will depend on how extensive the damage is and what components are affected. For example, a clogged drain line will be cheaper to repair than a malfunctioning condensate pump or heat exchanger.
The best way to minimize repair and replacement costs is to keep your furnace well-maintained with regular maintenance services from a ClimateCare member. These annual check-ups help prevent small issues from escalating into major, costly problems and can help you avoid repairs altogether.
Choosing a Technician
If you need a furnace repair, make sure to choose the right technician. In addition to the basic qualifications of being licensed, certified and insured, a reputable technician should have experience working with your particular furnace type. He or she should also be able to explain any complex issues that may arise during the repair process.
A good sign that you’re dealing with a professional is transparency in pricing. Ideally, the technician will provide you with an upfront quote of what’s going to be charged for labor and parts. This will help you decide whether or not to move forward with the repairs.
In some cases, homeowners can handle a few simple maintenance tasks themselves rather than relying on a service professional. For example, changing a filter is one of the simplest maintenance activities that anyone can perform. Keeping your filters clean helps to improve air flow, reduce energy consumption, and prevent the growth of mold and other contaminants.
Other common repair tasks include checking for loose electrical connections, lubricating moving parts, and adjusting the thermostat settings. However, it’s important to be aware of when a repair call is necessary, especially for high-efficiency units that require frequent maintenance to keep their energy-saving features working properly.
Any abnormal odors should be a cause for concern, as well as any sudden changes in the sounds that the unit makes while running. A loud rattling sound, for example, could be an indicator that the heat exchanger is cracked and needs to be replaced.
Lastly, any electrical problems should be dealt with immediately. A tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse can interrupt the flow of electricity, leading to overheating and other complications. A faulty limit switch can also be a safety hazard, as it won’t turn off the system if it’s overheating.
Timely repairs can save you from expensive heating costs, uncomfortable homes, and health hazards. In addition, choosing the right service provider can ensure that your furnace is back up and running quickly. Be sure to look for a company with 24/7 availability and a solid reputation for customer service, as well as the ability to provide emergency repairs.
Asking Questions
When performing a repair, it’s important to ask questions. This allows you to get a better understanding of the problem and what steps need to be taken to fix it. It also helps you provide the best service possible to your customer.
You can start with the basic intake questions, like when was the last time you had your HVAC system serviced and did you change your air filter? However, you should also ask more in-depth questions to help you diagnose the problem. These can include how many square feet their house is, how many people live in it and the age of their HVAC system.
Another key question is if there are any safety precautions that need to be taken after the repair. This is especially important if the HVAC system is located in an attic. You should also ask about any warranties that may be offered on the repairs. This will allow you to protect yourself if anything goes wrong with the repair in the future. Asking these questions can make your repair experience easier and more satisfying.
Performing the Repairs
If you notice a mild burning smell when you turn on your furnace for the first time in the season or if it cycles on and off more than normal, these are usually minor issues that can be fixed quickly by an HVAC technician. However, if you get a gas, rotten egg, or metallic smell, or feel sick after turning on your furnace, stop running it immediately. This could indicate that there is a carbon monoxide leak, and this is dangerous and needs to be addressed by a professional as soon as possible.
Other common problems include a broken blower fan belt or a capacitor that has stopped working. A blower fan belt that is worn out will make your system less efficient, while a faulty capacitor can cause a power surge that causes the furnace to shut off. A technician can inspect the blower motor and replace the fan belt or capacitor to resolve these issues.
When you notice that your furnace isn’t producing enough heat, check that nothing is blocking the flow of warm air through the vents and that the thermostat is set to “Heat”. A blown fuse or a tripped circuit breaker can also prevent your system from starting and should be checked by a technician to ensure that they have been reset properly.
A corroded or cracked heat exchanger is another serious issue that requires professional attention. A heat exchanger is a coil of tubes that moves heated air throughout your home, and cracks can cause unsafe conditions that should be resolved immediately.
Your furnace may not be running at all if the flame sensor rod has become coated in soot, which can inhibit the burner from lighting. A technician can remove the flame sensor rod and clean it with emery cloth. If it is still unresponsive, the rod may need to be replaced.