It's Furnace Flu Season!

The time to worry about your furnace is not in the middle of winter during sub-freezing temperatures, yet all too often that’s when we get the majority of calls. We call this time of year Furnace Flu Season and below are seven symptoms that your furnace could be in trouble:

1. What’s that noise? Yes, most furnaces make some noise and it’s not usually cause for concern. However, if you hear scarier noises that are louder than a hum, like maybe a groan or banging sounds, there could be something seriously wrong with your equipment. If your furnace is nearing the end of its useful life (15-20 years) and you are hearing troubling sounds, it may be less expensive in the long run to replace it.
2. Yellow pilot light – proceed with caution. This means that the gas to air ratio is off. Pilot light flames should always burn blue. Yellow-burning lights could mean that carbon monoxide is leaking into your home’s air because the flame isn’t hot enough to burn it up entirely and excess gas escapes into the air.
3. Hot and cold spots throughout your home – if some rooms are warmer than others, it could be a sign that your furnace is not heating your home properly. However, if you feel drafts it could mean that heat is escaping in spots – if you have an icy roof it may mean that your attic needs to be insulated and the furnace is fine.
4. Offensive odors – Sure the first time you turn on your furnace for the season, there’s usually a gas or oil smell that dissipates fairly quickly. If that smell stays steady after using the furnace several times in a row, it could spell trouble for your furnace and possibly your family. Make sure you call a professional to check it out if the smell persists. However, keep in mind carbon monoxide is a tasteless, odorless gas.
5. Respiratory problems – asthma and other respiratory problems are exacerbated by an old or dirty furnace. Systems that are outdated or don’t work properly can be breeding grounds for mold, mildew and allow other airborne pathogens that mix with your home’s air supply. If breathing problems linger or worsen, your furnace should be inspected.
6. Thermostat failure – usually if you turn up the thermostat it becomes quite comfortable in a short period of time. If you find yourself jacking up the dial and not feeling the results, it’s possible that there’s a leak in the duct system or it could mean the thermostat is broken and not communicating with the furnace.
7. Sudden spike in your electric bill – a sudden spike in electricity could mean that your furnace is the culprit. If you notice any irregularities and have seen one of the other signs mentioned above, call your local plumber to put your mind at ease.

Fred Webster is the owner of MillTown Plumbing, Heating Air Conditioning and Drain Cleaning in Chelmsford, MA.