The top 6 signs that your heating system needs repairs

Sometimes it’s hard to know when a furnace is in trouble — and when a prompt repair is needed. Luckily, there are some signs you can watch out for that will tell you. 

1. Strange sounds. A clicking sound, for instance, could mean the igniter keeping is trying unsuccessfully to light the burner. Until it’s fixed, you won’t have heat.

2. Strange smells. The smell of rotten eggs or sulfur could mean problems with the heat exchanger, which could result in dangerous levels of gas or carbon monoxide seeping out. The smell of burning plastic could indicate an electrical issue.

3. Uneven room heating. This could be caused by leaky ducts, poor insulation, insufficient ductwork design and even clogged filters.

4. Short cycling (your furnace keeps turning on and off without producing heat). This could mean your air filter or flame sensor needs cleaning or your thermostat is malfunctioning. Or there could be an electrical issue.

5. High energy bills. Heating systems experience wear and tear just like any appliance or machine. Worn or faulty parts could lead to a drop in efficiency — and higher bills. Other possible culprits are leaks or blockages in the ductwork.

If you’re experiencing any of these problems, call us at Martens Plumbing & Heating! We’ll find the problem as well as the solution. And when you call us for service you’ll speak with a helpful person — not an answering machine. We respond to all emergencies and after-hour calls, too.