As the temperature begins to drop, it’s time to think about turning on your furnace. However, if you’ve never done it before, you might wonder how to do it correctly and how to recognize if something is wrong. Here, we’ll guide you through the process and highlight the critical warning signs to look out for when activating your furnace. Contact Superb Heating & Air at (708) 890-8285 if you need furnace repair or service.
How to Turn On a Furnace
The steps to turn on your furnace depend on the type you have. For some, it’s as simple as adjusting your thermostat to heat mode. However, if you have a gas furnace, the process might be slightly more complex, possibly requiring you to light the pilot light. Your furnace should have specific instructions for this process, and if you’re unsure, seeking help from a heating professional can ensure you do it safely and correctly.
1. Lack of Heat
After turning on your furnace, your home should start to warm up fairly quickly. If it doesn’t, this is a clear indication that something might be wrong. A furnace that fails to produce heat effectively might have issues ranging from a malfunctioning thermostat to more severe problems with the heating elements.
If you encounter this issue, it’s wise to look into AC and heating tune-up services in your area. Many companies offer inspections and can diagnose and repair the issue, ensuring your home stays warm throughout the colder months.
2. Higher Bills
It’s normal for energy bills to increase when you start using your furnace regularly. However, a sudden and significant spike in your bills could signal a problem. An inefficient furnace can consume more energy, driving up costs. This might be due to worn-out parts, dirty filters, or other inefficiencies within the system.
Monitoring your energy bills closely and comparing them to previous months or years can help you detect any unusual increases. If you notice a substantial hike, contacting a professional to inspect your furnace is recommended.
3. Weird Smells
Unusual smells emanating from your furnace are another warning sign. The presence of a gas odor is particularly concerning and requires immediate attention. If you smell gas, it’s crucial to contact a heating and cooling maintenance company right away to inspect and address the issue.
Installing a carbon monoxide detector in your home is also essential, as this odorless gas can be deadly. Even if you don’t smell gas, carbon monoxide might still be present, posing a serious risk to your health.
Other smells, such as a musty odor when first turning on the furnace, might be less dangerous but still noteworthy. This can happen if the furnace has been inactive for a long period. However, if the smell persists, it’s best to have a professional check it out to ensure there are no underlying issues.
4. Unusual Sounds
While some noise from your furnace can be expected, especially when you first turn it on, loud or unusual sounds are often a sign of trouble. Grinding noises, for example, can indicate an electrical issue, while a puffing noise might suggest a delay in ignition.
These noises can signify various problems, from loose components to more serious mechanical failures. If you hear anything unusual, it’s best to call in a professional to investigate and resolve the issue before it leads to more significant damage or a complete furnace breakdown.
Keep Your Furnace Running Smoothly
Knowing how to turn on your furnace and being aware of these warning signs can help you keep your home warm and safe. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues can prevent costly repairs and ensure your furnace operates efficiently.
If you’re in need of expert furnace repair and maintenance services, contact Superb Heating & Air at (708) 890-8285. Our experienced technicians are ready to assist you, ensuring your heating system runs smoothly throughout the season. Don’t wait until it’s too late—reach out to us today!