Top Signs Your Heating System Needs a Safety Check

As we welcome the colder season and the temperatures drop, your heating system works overtime to keep you cozy. However, hidden problems can turn that comfort into risk. Knowing the warning signs of trouble is the first step to keep your home and your loved ones protected. 

That's why we are sharing the top signs your heating system needs a safety check.

unusual odors

One of the first red flags indicating your heater needs a safety check is the presence of strong and persistent smells such as gas, burning, or chemical odors. These odors could signal issues with electrical components or even gas leaks. While a smoky smell can occur when the heater kicks in, you should turn it off and call a professional HVAC technician to inspect it if the odor doesn’t dissipate after a few minutes.

frequent short cycling

If your heating system keeps turning on and off in short bursts, it may be overheating, experiencing airflow restrictions, or struggling with other issues. A furnace that short cycles can lead to unnecessary wear and tear on the system, potentially damaging key components like the heat exchanger. For this reason, system short cycling can lead to carbon monoxide leaks and fire hazards in worst case scenarios. 

YELLOW OR FLICKERING PILOT LIGHT

A normal pilot light should burn blue. If it’s yellow or flickering, your system may not be burning fuel properly. Incomplete combustion often results in carbon monoxide production, which poses a serious safety risk. If you observe this specific issue, it’s best to turn off the furnace immediately and call a licensed technician for assistance. Never attempt to fix this problem on your own.

STRANGE NOISES

Strange and persistent noises are another common red flag that could indicate safety issues with your heating system. While the occasional ping of expanding ductwork shouldn’t necessarily worry you, it’s important to pay attention to other persistent or unusually loud noises coming from your system. Frequent banging, rattling, or squealing may point to loose parts, mechanical wear and tear, or airflow problems that need to be addressed. Other noises such as a hissing sound could indicate a potential gas leak, while constant buzzing can signal a dangerous electrical issue that may pose a fire risk.

visible soot, corrosion, or damage

If you notice rust, corrosion, soot, or other visible signs of damage on or around the unit, it could indicate serious problems. The buildup of soot around your heater could mean combustion problems and poor ventilation, which could negatively impact the indoor air quality in your home. Rust or signs of corrosion can point to excessive moisture presence that could compromise key components of the system such as the heat exchanger. On the other hand, cracks or other forms of visible damage can put your home at risk of gas and carbon monoxide leaks.

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keep your home safe

Your heater should keep you warm, not put your family at risk. If you’ve noticed at least one of the warning signs above, it’s a good idea to schedule an immediate safety inspection to protect your home from potential health and safety hazards. Regular maintenance can also help to catch issues early on and aid in preventing them.

To schedule your Safety-Efficiency-Preventative Maintenance, call us directly at 773.456.5883 or you can text us, email us, or book online and someone will respond to you to find a day and time that works best for your schedule.

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