Learn the Signs that You Need a Heating Repairman

Having a problem with your heater can be a frustrating and nerve-wracking experience—especially when you’re counting on it to keep you and your family warm. However, did you know that not all the signs you need a heating repairman are straightforward? Naturally, if the heat goes out it's obvious you need repair services. But there are other issues that many Dallas homeowners think are a normal part of their HVAC system.

Our company, Aire Serv of Dallas, believes in empowering our customers so you have peace of mind when your HVAC system is having issues. Whatever heating system you have—furnaces, boilers and heat-pumps to name a few—savvy homeowners should know the signs you need heater repairs before the situation escalates to an emergency.

1. Strange Noises in the Heater or Vents

Hearing strange noises in your heater, vents or ducts are common heater repair problems in Dallas that many homeowners think is a normal part of their heating system. These different noises actually indicate different issues. Generally speaking:

• Pops and squeaks indicate that one of the parts in your heater has come loose
• Bangs that sound like small explosions are exactly that: small explosions; this noise means there is an issue with the combustion process in your heater
• Loud squealing noises that sound like a tea kettle in your boiler could mean that too much pressure has built up in its heat exchanger

2. Jumps in Your Energy Bill

Nobody wants to pay more on their energy bill especially if it seems like your heater isn’t even working that hard. If you’ve noticed an increase in your utility bills, but have not made any changes to your energy usage, then there is an issue with your heating system. This is another reason why you might need a heating repairman without knowing it! It’s difficult to ascertain the problem without the help of a Dallas heater repair professional. That said, usually the issue is that parts of your furnace or boiler have gotten dirty. So, the machine runs less efficiently and results in increased energy costs.

3. Issues with the Thermostat

Does it feel like every time you turn up the setting on your thermostat, nothing happens? This means you likely have an electrical problem. The culprit could be a damaged thermostat, blown fuse, loose writing or a tripped circuit breaker. Your thermostat communicates with your heating system electrically, so when a problem inhibits it from doing so, you need to call your local Dallas HVAC repair company at Aire Serv.

4. Frequent Cycling

One of the most important qualities of your heating system is its reliability. Although this issue is commonly missed by homeowners who don't pay too much attention to their furnaces, if your heater is turning off and on seemingly at random, cycling quickly, or takes forever to kick in, there’s certainly a problem with the machine. Generally, rapid cycling is caused by improper air circulation, a clogged air filter or a malfunctioning thermostat. One of our professional technicians will be able to expertly diagnose and repair the issue.

5. Dust in the Air

Feel like you're whipping out your duster more often than you used to? Since your heater typically has a filter that helps purify your air, if it becomes too clogged, then dust and allergens will infiltrate in your home. Debris that would otherwise be trapped by a clean air filter will move through your duct system and disperse throughout your house. Thus, if your home seems dustier than usual it's time to change the air filter.

6. Old Furnaces and Heaters

While some well cared for heaters can last up to 20-years, most machines have a lifespan between 10 and 15 years. Older units are more prone to wear and require frequent repair services. If your furnace is more than 10-years-old and has been breaking down frequently in the last two years, that's a good indication it's reached the end of its lifespan. In this case, it will be more cost-effective to replace your furnace rather than repair it.

7. Your Pilot Light is Yellow

Not many Dallas homeowners know this, but your pilot lights should always be blue. The light is blue when the heating system is getting enough air to properly combust. A yellow pilot light can be a sign that you have a carbon monoxide leak. This is very serious. If you notice a yellow pilot light, open the windows in your home and call a qualified heating repairman right away.

8. Pooling Water

Puddles anywhere in your house are not a good sign—and this is especially the case if you notice water near your HVAC system as well. Generally, pooling water is caused by a clogged condensate line. However, if you have a boiler, water on the ground may mean you have a leak.

9. Poor Air Flow

When your heater has poor airflow, it means that it's working hard to heat your home but you can't really feel the difference. Your vents might be open, you can hear your furnace working, but you can't feel the warm air blowing into your house. There are a number of possible causes for poor air flow, including:

• A clogged air filter
• Leaky ducts
• Issues with the blower fan
• Issues with the blower motor or belt

10. You Smell Rotten Eggs

If you smell rotten eggs in your home, you may have a gas leak. This is a very serious problem and should be addressed immediately. Open all your windows right away—even in cold or rainy weather—and call an emergency heating repairman as soon as possible. If left unaddressed, gas leaks can cause devastating damage to your home.

Schedule Our Heating Repair Services Today!

Do you think you need a heating repairman to fix your HVAC system? Perhaps you've noticed strange noises in your vents or are worried the pilot light has gone out? Whatever the case may be, our company offers a range of services that will quickly and assuredly repair your furnace, boiler or heater. We also offer emergency air conditioning repair services and routine maintenance. Our technicians are highly trained, experienced and treat all our customers respectfully. From your first call with our friendly office staff to the moment one of our service professionals arrives at your home, you can expect reliable and courteous service.

To schedule an appointment, learn more about our services, or get to know our company better, we invite you to give our helpful customer service representatives a call today or request an appointment online to get started.