3 Guidelines To Help You Determine The Seriousness Of Your Furnace Problem
Posted on: 18 January 2023
When you install and properly maintain your furnace, it will serve you for years without an incident. However, this does not mean the unit will last forever. Sooner or later, a time will come when the system ages, and its performance will deteriorate. Given this, you should assess the problems presented by an older furnace system and determine whether it is time to replace it. Consider these guidelines to help you determine if you have a furnace emergency.
The House Smells Like Rotten Eggs
The natural gas that fuels the heating system is odorless and colorless, making it difficult to detect. Therefore, the manufacturers add mercaptan to give it a distinctive odor. So, if your unit has a gas leak, the house will smell like rotten eggs. If this is the case, get your family and your pets out immediately. Further note that the tiny electrical arc created when switching on or off any lights poses a fire risk. So, shut off the stove and leave the windows open. More importantly, don't linger in the house longer than you have to. Then, call the emergency services when you're sure everyone is safe.
The Flame Has Turned Yellow
If your flames are more yellow than orange, you may have a combustion problem. Note that when problems occur during the furnace's combustion process, the unit can contaminate the air with dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. Furthermore, the threshold for detecting the gas is low because it does not affect any of the senses. Given this, indoor accumulation of carbon monoxide poses a poisoning risk to humans and domestic animals. However, you should know that the primary component of natural gas, methane, burns with a bluish flame. So, if your system is burning with a yellow flame, it has toxic gas, and it's time to call a heating repair expert.
When the System Is Unusually Noisy
Sometimes, a noisy furnace does not mean the end of its life span. For example, if you can trace the noise source to the ductwork, consider getting them insulated to reduce the disruption. However, if your furnace keeps making noises, you may need to adjust the pilot light. A technician can also help you lubricate parts on the blower motor or troubleshoot belt issues and burner breakdowns
These are some indicators of a significant issue with your furnace. It is advisable to call a heating repair expert to assess your systems and determine what needs fixing. In most cases, emergency furnace repair services will fix problems with your unit and avert a possible disaster.
Contact a local heating repair service to learn more.
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