Your HVAC is designed to keep you and your family comfortable in all types of weather. But when your furnace gets dirty, it works harder, potentially breaks down, and becomes far less energy efficient to keep up with its demands.
Here are 6 signs of a dirty furnace and when to call for service and maintenance to preserve the life of your HVAC system.
Excess Dirt, Dust and Debris
As you probably know, furnace air filters should be changed every 30-90 days depending on whether you have pets or stale, dusty air in your home.
When you change the filter, you notice it’s unusually dirty or even on the verge of clogging. You may also find gaps on the sides of the filter, trapping excess dust.
Another telltale sign is a good collection of hair, dirt or dust on the vents and vent fins.
Furnace Noises and Repairs
If you hear odd noises like banging or clunking when the furnace kicks in, first check and change out the air filter. If that doesn’t do the trick, it needs an inspection, a thorough cleaning or replacement parts.
If your furnace simply breaks down and it happens more frequently, it could mean that an area of the HVAC is clogged, dirty or that it’s time for a new one.
Short Cycling
If you notice your furnace kicking in frequently and then turning off almost as soon as it turns on, you’re experiencing “short cycling.”
In most cases, short cycling is caused by a clogged furnace filter. While this is not a serious issue, it does require immediate attention and filter replacement.
It can also indicate a more serious issue involving the flame sensor, which requires immediate professional service.
Blowing Cold Air
While the furnace is running, it’s only blowing out cold air.
The first thing to check for is a clogged or dirty air filter. If that’s not the problem, it could be a clog or blockage somewhere else in the system, like a condensate line.
This issue requires a maintenance call and more than likely, a good cleaning.
Water Leaks
Water leaks are a good sign of a dirty and potentially clogged condensation line.
Not only does this need immediate cleaning but puts your home at a high risk for airborne mold spores and active mold in those damp areas inside and outside of the HVAC system.
High Energy Bills
If you notice an increase in your monthly energy bill or usage while you’ve done nothing differently, it’s another indicator that your HVAC needs an inspection and a deep cleaning.
Keeping your furnace clean and maintained helps to keep those energy bills down while at the same time preserving the life and efficiency of your HVAC system.
Conclusion
Calling for maintenance at least once a year helps preserve the life of your HVAC system and prevents build-up of sticky grime, dust and dirt that can cause problems down the road.
Routine HVAC maintenance also ensures better air quality for those with pets or suffer from upper respiratory issues.
To schedule an appointment for cleaning and a maintenance check in Sonoma County, reach out to the professional HVAC technicians at Dale HCS.