Winter is just around the corner, and your heating system plays a pivotal role in determining whether it will be dreadful or very merry. Does your heating system need help?
Aside from needing annual maintenance to work efficiently and effectively, there are some telltale signs you should pay keen attention to that could be a warning your heating system is in need of professional repair.

If you don’t want to be in a fix during winter, here are some signs that your heating system needs repairs ASAP.

1. Outrageously High Power Bills

When your electricity bills are off the charts, then it could be your heating system. When your gas bill also goes inexplicably high, it could indicate a heating system malfunction.

Over time, your heating system is bound to become less efficient. This reduced efficiency means your system may take longer to get the house to the right temperature.

Take note that utility companies may gradually raise their rates. When your bill shoots up drastically, however, then it is a cause for alarm.

So when your bills skyrocket, then it might be time for a professional heating repair.

2. Your Burner Flame Turns Yellow

We’re all used to the blue gas furnace burner flame. When the burner flame is yellow instead of blue, then it could underscore something wrong with your heater.

A yellow flame indicates the presence of carbon monoxide in your home. Carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas and is very dangerous in excess. It is, therefore, important to address this issue immediately. Inexplicable flu-like symptoms are also a carbon monoxide indicator. If you feel dizziness or fatigue when at home, then vacate your home immediately.

When it comes to a gas furnace flame turning yellow, or any other carbon monoxide concerns, contact Total Mechanical Systems for heating service immediately.

3. Strange Noises from Your System

Old heating systems are prone to occasional rattling, banging and creaking. If your heating system starts making noise, don’t call the Ghostbusters. Instead, call your heating system repair team.

Squealing could indicate problems with your system’s motor bearings. Rattling means your blower assembly or motor needs some checking. You may hear loud rattling when you fan starts up. This rattling is very annoying and is never a good show for the guests. So, when your heating system makes strange noises, you need to check it out.

It is important to address these strange noises quickly before they get out of hand. These noises could also lead to more serious problems with your heating system.

4. You have to Adjust Your Thermostat Constantly

Getting up too many times to adjust your thermostat could indicate something is wrong. You may have trouble getting the right temperature in some rooms. If you can’t get the temperature right after several tries, then let the thermostat be. You should divert your attention to your heating system itself instead. The furnace may not be distributing heat evenly across the rooms. That’s why some rooms may feel warm and others a bit chilly. You need to address this issue quickly to prevent it from getting worse.

5. The Age of Your Heating System

Just like any machine, a heating system is bound to wear. Typically, the life expectancy of a heater is between 15 to 25 years. A pilot light is a great way to tell if your system if old. If your heater has a pilot light, you could be looking at a 25-year-old system. An old heating system is very likely to break down. It is also inefficient and could be the reason why your bills are so high.

You might need some system repairs or a complete overhaul of the entire system. It’s never a bad idea to upgrade your heating system, especially if it has served for over 20 years.

Don’t wait for winter to get an upgrade. Upgrade your heating system today.

6. Too Many Replacements in a Short Time

Heating system repairs are nothing unusual. But if you find yourself replacing too many components too soon, then the system may have a serious problem.

For older systems, repairs aren’t difficult. Finding replacements parts, however, is pretty hard. Ultimately, it makes more sense to settle for an entire system upgrade. Too many replacements mean your system needs some serious repair work. Buying replacement parts too frequently isn’t good for your bank account.

Have the professional service team at TMS look at your system once and for all and forget having to buy too many replacement parts. You can also arrange for a heating system upgrade. An upgrade will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of your home’s heating. It will also save you a lot of money on repairs over time.

7. When It Has Short Cycles

Short cycling is when your heating system goes on and off intermittently. It is up to the thermostat to regulate your home’s temperature. When your heating system goes on and off, then off again, inadvertently, that can’t be the thermostats. Instead, it could indicate a serious malfunction in the heating system. Short cycling occurs when the heat exchanger overheats. This overheating causes the entire system to shut down. The system turns on again when the exchanger cools down.

When your heater has short cycles, then it’s high time to call your home service company. Otherwise, you may be in for a very chillier than usual winter.

8. Quality of Air Decreases at Home

Air quality is not something you can see. Sometimes your house air may get too stuffy or hazy without good reason. Well, the reason is, your heating system needs repair.

Flawed systems are notorious for circulating dust, mildew spores, and allergens. If you notice a spike in respiratory illnesses in your family, then the heating system could be the problem. You could try changing the filter first. If it’s damaged, you can replace it yourself instead of calling in a professional. Also, as a matter of routine maintenance, you should check the filter every month.

That said, sometimes the problem is more than just the filter. You’re better off having professionals take a look at it. Does your heating system need help? You know who to call.

9. Uneven Temperatures and Cold Spots

Uneven temperatures in your house are a definite red flag. Some heating systems might work like a charm in some rooms and barely work at all in others.

Uneven temperatures in the house could mean a myriad of problems in the heating system. These problems range from improper insulation to ductwork problems. Whatever the issue is, it is important to have it checked out immediately.

You only have two options in this scenario. One, contact TMS for service or squeeze everyone in the two or three rooms with proper heating during winter.

10. When It’s Been Ages Since Your Last Heater Inspection

Your heating system needs inspections regularly without fail, so remember to always schedule this annually. These inspections may end up saving you a lot in future repair costs.

Do yourself, your family, and your home a favor and book an inspection today.

What to Do When Your Heater Stops Working Suddenly…

When you’re a little too late in addressing these issues, your heating system may abruptly stop working and you’ll need service quickly. This is especially the case if the heater turns off after you’ve noticed the signs we’ve discussed above.