Maintaining a cozy home during Denver’s freezing winters is crucial for comfort and safety. Yet, many homeowners overlook the early warning signs of a failing furnace until it’s too late. Done! Plumbing, Heating, Cooling and Electric, serving the Denver metro area since 1999, understands the importance of a reliable heating system. Our dedicated team is committed to providing swift and effective HVAC solutions to keep your family warm. In this article, we’ll explore common indicators that suggest it might be time to consider a new furnace—from unexpected cold air and strange noises to unusual smells—and explain how our expertise can help you address these issues promptly.
7 Common Signs Your Furnace Needs Replacing
1. Furnace Blowing Cold Air Instead of Heat
Few things are more frustrating than turning on your furnace and feeling cold air when you need warmth the most. If the temperature in your home never seems to rise, even after adjusting the thermostat, it’s clear something isn’t right.
Possible Causes:
- A damaged heat exchanger, which is expensive and central to the furnace’s operation.
- Pilot light or ignition system issues preventing heat production.
- A malfunctioning thermostat sending incorrect signals to the system.
- Obstructed exhaust vents caused by debris, disrupting airflow.
Why It’s a Concern:
- A furnace blowing cold air fails to provide the warmth your family depends on.
- Problems like damaged heat exchangers or ignition failures often signal larger mechanical issues.
- Safety risks, including carbon monoxide leaks, arise from severe malfunctions.
2. Unusual Noises Coming from Your Furnace
A well-functioning furnace doesn’t make much noise—just a soft hum as it cycles on and off. However, loud or strange sounds suggest internal problems that shouldn’t be ignored.
a. Humming or Whirring Sounds
- These sounds often come from issues with the motor or blower assembly.
- Worn bearings or electrical troubles may also be the culprit.
b. Banging or Popping Noises
- Dirty burners can cause delayed ignition, creating loud bangs or pops. This is both a maintenance issue and a safety concern.
- Airflow problems can also lead to popping sounds caused by ductwork expanding and contracting.
c. Squealing or Screeching Sounds
- High-pitched noises point to problems like a worn blower belt or failing motor bearings, both of which need immediate attention to prevent further damage.
3. Strange or Persistent Burning Smells
Smelling something burning can be alarming, especially when it’s coming from your furnace. While a faint odor is normal when the system starts up after months of disuse, anything stronger or long-lasting could mean trouble.
Burning Dust Smell:
- Dust buildup burns off when the furnace runs for the first time in a while, causing a temporary odor that should fade quickly.
Persistent Burning Odor:
- A smell that won’t go away may hint at overheating parts or electrical problems.
- In more severe cases, it could indicate a cracked heat exchanger, which can release carbon monoxide—a serious health hazard.
- If this happens, turn off the furnace immediately and contact Done! for an inspection.
4. Increased Use During Cold Weather Causes Issues
When the weather outside is bitterly cold, your furnace naturally works harder to keep your home warm. Even so, heavy use shouldn’t lead to breakdowns or erratic behavior.
What Happens with Overuse:
- Motors and blowers wear out faster under extreme demand.
- Short cycling occurs, where the furnace frequently turns on and off due to restricted airflow or dirty filters.
- Excessive strain causes parts to wear down prematurely, shortening the system’s lifespan.
5. Furnace Struggling to Start or Keep Running
If your furnace has trouble starting or staying on, something is definitely wrong. You may notice it turning on briefly before shutting off, or it may take multiple attempts to ignite.
Signs to Watch For:
- The furnace runs in short bursts and can’t complete a full heating cycle.
- Ignition issues or failing components make it difficult to start.
- Maintaining a steady, comfortable temperature becomes a challenge.
6. Unexplained Increase in Energy Bills
A sudden jump in energy costs often signals that your furnace isn’t running efficiently. Older or malfunctioning systems use more power to produce the same amount of heat, leading to higher bills.
Why Efficiency Drops:
- Internal parts wear out, forcing the system to work harder.
- Aging furnaces lose their ability to operate efficiently, especially without regular maintenance.
- Upgrading to a modern furnace can save money in the long run with better energy efficiency.
7. Age of Your Furnace
If your furnace has been around for 15 years or longer, it might be nearing the end of its usefulness. Even if it seems to work fine, older systems are less efficient and prone to breakdowns.
Points to Keep in Mind:
- Most furnaces last 15-20 years, depending on how often they’re serviced.
- Frequent repairs on an old furnace often cost more than replacing it.
- Newer models are far more efficient, offering better performance and lower energy usage.
Professional Solutions Over DIY Fixes
When your furnace starts acting up, tackling the problem yourself might seem like a quick fix. However, professional expertise is key to ensuring safety and preventing further damage.
Why Call a Professional:
- Technicians can pinpoint the issue accurately and recommend the best solution.
- Safety checks can uncover hidden hazards like carbon monoxide leaks or faulty wiring.
- Repairs done by professionals ensure your system is restored to optimal performance.
Why DIY Can Be Risky:
- Without proper tools or knowledge, attempting repairs can make the problem worse.
- Gas and electrical components are dangerous to handle without training.
One Call… It’s Done!
Don’t let a malfunctioning furnace leave you and your family in the cold this winter. At Done, we understand the importance of a reliable heating system and are committed to providing swift, effective solutions to keep your home warm and comfortable. Our expert technicians are available 24/7 to diagnose and fix any furnace issue, from cold air and strange noises to unusual smells.
We pride ourselves on offering honest advice and personalized solutions tailored to your needs and budget. Whether you require a thorough inspection, prompt repair, or a new furnace installation, our friendly and knowledgeable staff will guide you through the process, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.
Experience the Done difference and join our 1st Service Club for exclusive benefits and discounts on all your home maintenance needs. Contact Done today at (833) 539-9153 or visit itsdone.com to schedule your expert furnace inspection and repair in Aurora, CO.
