Your heater is one of the fundamental systems in your home that helps maintain your quality of living and comfort. When things go awry it can often catch you off guard, after all most people don’t give a lot of thought to the well being of their heater. This cavalier attitude can often lead to unnecessary down time for your heater. And unfortunately many heater breakdowns don’t come with an RSVP, meaning they can creep up with the worst timing. Heater maintenance is one of the most important things you can do to not only safeguard against a broken heater but also to protect the safety of your home. Here are some signs your heater maintenance is overdue.
#1 Old Heating System
Unfortunately nothing lasts forever including your heater. Heating systems typically last 15 to 25 years. The older your heating system is the more prone it is to breakdowns. Your heater could be getting on in age. If your heater still has a pilot light, chances are it is nearing retirement. The older your heater is the more important it is to stay on top of heater maintenance. This can help identify potential breakdowns early on and allow you to plan for repairs. It is a good idea to replace heating systems that are 25 years or older. This will help prevent breakdowns and ensure that your heating system is running safely, effectively, and efficiently.
#2 Weak Pilot
Heaters that have a pilot light should always have a strong blue flame. Weakened pilot flames will present a yellow hue instead of blue which can indicate the presence of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is known as the silent killer because it is odorless and colorless. If you notice a yellow flame it is important to have your heater checked right away. Carbon monoxide poisoning is often accompanied by flu-like symptoms. If you are experiencing nausea, headache, dizziness, difficulty breathing, or irritated eyes, vacate the area immediately. A pilot check is part of regular maintenance, and will help keep yourself and your loved ones safe.
#3 Strange Sounds Coming From Heater
You should never be met with rattling, banging, or squealing sounds when your heater engages. Sounds such as these are a warning sign that your heater needs some TLC. There could be an issue with the motor, blower, or fan. All of which have moving parts that need to be maintained or replaced from time to time to ensure your heater is running the way it is supposed to.
#4 Your System Can’t Reach Comfortable Temperature
If you have a hard time reaching a comfortable temperature and have to keep adjusting the thermostat, this could be a sign your heater maintenance is overdue. While it could be a faulty thermostat, heating systems that have a hard time maintaining the temperature of your home, are nearing the end of their lifespan.
#5 Short Cycling
Short cycling occurs when your heater turns on for short periods of time and then shuts off. This is often the result of the heat exchange overheating. If this is occurring, your heater is not running effectively or efficiently. This is a good indicator that your heater is in need of some overdue maintenance.
Other Signs Something Is Amiss
If you have had multiple repairs to your heating system in a short period of time, chances are your heater is going to need to be replaced sometime in the near future. Another sign something is amiss with your heating system is if you notice an unusually high utility bill.
Schedule Your Heater Maintenance Today
Staying on top of maintenance for your heater can help safeguard against breakdowns, inefficiencies, and safety hazards. If you notice any of the above mentioned symptoms, call Lesco today!
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