Don't Get Left In the Cold by an Unexpected Heating Emergency

When Should You Call for Emergency Furnace Repair?

In the middle of winter, there's nothing worse than a furnace or heater malfunction. More than just being an inconvenience, some heating problems can create a veritable crisis and potentially threaten everyone's health and safety. A house without heat on a freezing night can become dangerously cold in a matter of hours, but that's nothing compared to the hazards of a gas leak. If that's not enough, some seemingly minor problems can result in the heater's total destruction. Knowing what constitutes a heating emergency can make the difference between a minor annoyance and a major catastrophe.

Cold Air Coming From the Vents

One common sign of trouble is when the thermostat is set to 'heat,' but only cold air is blowing. This could be caused by a significant air duct leak or the thermostat's fan setting being switched to the 'on' position. Usually, however, it's a gas ignition issue or a problem with the heating elements. 

A faulty pilot light or gas valve, clogged burner orifices, or a worn-out thermocouple can prevent proper ignition. Electric heating elements can fail due to a broken sequencer or loose or corroded wiring. A heat pump that blows cold air may have a broken reversing valve or a refrigerant leak. Despite the lack of heat, the blower fan may continue to operate as if nothing is wrong.

Loud Noises Coming From the Furnace

A furnace that's making loud or unusual sounds is likely on the verge of breaking down. Loud banging or pounding sounds, particularly when the unit turns on, are often caused by delayed gas ignition. Whether it's caused by a faulty ignitor or grime on the burners, gas buildup is never good. The force of the blasts can fracture the heat exchanger, which is a costly part to replace.

Metallic clanking, squealing, or grating sounds usually indicate that the blower motor requires cleaning and lubrication or that a piece of the fan assembly has broken off or come loose. If the unit continues to run in this condition, the damage to internal components can reach critical levels, and the motor may even burn out entirely.

Smelling Gas?

A natural gas leak is every homeowner's worst nightmare. The risks associated with a gas leak include poisoning, fire, or a devastating explosion. While it doesn't happen often, homeowners should take no chances and remain vigilant. A faulty pilot light or a tiny puncture in a gas line is enough to release a deadly amount of gas into the home.

Thanks to an additive called mercaptan, natural gas has the unmistakable odor of rotten eggs. If this smell can be found near the furnace or anywhere else in the home, everyone should leave the home at once (leaving the door open to help ventilate) and call the fire department or gas company. If possible (and safe), it's best to close the main gas shutoff valve on the way out. When the home is once again safe to enter, all that's left is to call a dependable HVAC service company that will show up in a hurry to get the furnace back up and running.

About Blaze Air, Inc

Blaze Air, Inc has been taking care of Winston-Salem, North Carolina's heating & cooling needs since 1979. They are a family-owned and operated, BBB-accredited company, and have earned numerous 5-star customer ratings and awards for their exceptional service and workmanship. They offer around-the-clock emergency service, free estimates, financing, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Call now for expert heating services.

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