6 Signs Your Furnace Needs Service Before Winter

From Jacob Russell, owner of Capital HVAC in Keene, NH

New Hampshire winters are hard on heating systems, and the worst time to find a problem is on the first sub-zero night. Here are six warning signs to watch for this fall, and what to do about them.

1. Strange noises when it starts up

Banging, squealing, rattling or booming when the burner kicks on can point to a dirty burner, a worn blower motor or a loose part. Small noises usually get worse, not better.

2. Rooms that heat unevenly

If some rooms are cold while others are toasty, it can mean a clogged filter, blocked ducts or a system that is not running efficiently.

3. Higher heating bills

When fuel or electric bills creep up without a change in how you use your heat, your system may be working harder than it should.

4. A yellow or flickering burner flame

On a gas furnace, the flame should be steady and blue. A yellow or flickering flame can be a sign of incomplete combustion and should be checked by a licensed technician.

5. Short cycling

If your system turns on and off every few minutes, it adds wear and wastes fuel. Causes range from a dirty flame sensor to a thermostat problem.

6. It has been more than a year since your last tune-up

Even if everything seems fine, a yearly tune-up keeps your system safe and efficient. We check burners, ignition, heat exchanger, venting, safety controls and carbon monoxide levels.

Safety first

If you ever smell gas or your carbon monoxide alarm goes off, leave the house and call your gas utility or 911 right away. Make sure you have working CO detectors on every level of your home.

Book your fall tune-up

Our $149 heating tune-up runs October 1 to November 15. Call (603) 499-5264 or request service online.