When to Call for Professional Heater Repairs
Plenty of cold weather is still ahead, which means the heater's work isn't done for the season. During the cooler months, the heater works hard to keep the home warm and safe, but hard work can take a toll on a heater and make problems more likely. Before a heater quits completely, it will usually display signs of suffering. If a homeowner is attentive and knows what to look out for, they can call for repairs before the heater stops. Here are the top three signs that the heater is struggling.
Energy Bills Keep Going Up
Every homeowner should be tracking all of their utility bills. Each month, the bills have to be paid, so why not take an extra second and use an app or spreadsheet to keep track of usage and the total cost of bills? Regarding tracking bills, the total cost isn't the most important number. Instead, people should be looking at the usage.
Utility costs tend to fluctuate, hiding one of the biggest signs that a heater needs repairs. Spikes in energy prices tend to occur during the colder season, and at first glance, they can make it seem like the heater may be using more gas or power to heat the home. In reality, the utility price has just gone up. By tracking the usage month to month, homeowners have an easy way to spot spikes in usage.
When the usage spikes, it is likely an indicator of a problem with the thermostat or the burner. A malfunctioning thermostat can cause the heater to run longer, wasting more power, while a bad burner can waste gas due to inefficiencies. Spotting the problem quickly and calling an expert can save lots of money during the remainder of the heating season.
New Sounds and Smells are Apparent
The senses of sound and smell are important tools in every homeowner's toolbox. Often, a vague sense that something is wrong is the brain picking up on something unusual, like an unusual scent or sound. This can be especially helpful when finding problems with the heater.
Serious problems with the heater can be heard and smelled like:
- Burning smells
- Electrical odors
- Gas smells
- Grinding noises
- Thumping
- Hissing
- Squealing
A professional should be called to investigate if any of these are noticed.
Poor Heater Performance
The final sign that heating repairs are needed is poor performance. During the heating season, it is common for people to blame a perceived lack of performance on particularly cold weather, but that is usually a bad assumption. Heaters should heat the home evenly when everything is operating properly. Hot and cold spots can form around the home when heater repairs are needed, indicating inefficiencies or poor airflow. If the home feels less comfortable on colder days or seems uncomfortable for long periods, heater repairs are probably necessary.
About Chad's AC Direct
Chad's AC Direct provides written estimates for residential and commercial heater repairs. Their experts are always available, and they leave their job sites clean when they leave. Call today for heater repairs in Montgomery, AL.
