Winter in Ottawa can be unforgiving, with freezing temperatures and heavy snowfall. As the season approaches, ensuring that your furnace is in top condition is essential for keeping your home warm and comfortable.
The last thing you want is for your furnace to break down during the coldest months of the year. At Advanced HVAC, we understand the importance of a well-functioning furnace to maintain a cozy home throughout Ottawa’s harsh winters.
Before the first snowfall, we recommend checking for these key signs that your furnace may need repair. Catching issues early can help prevent costly breakdowns and ensure your heating system is ready to face the cold.
Inconsistent Heating or Cold Spots
If you notice that certain rooms in your home are colder than others or your furnace isn’t distributing heat evenly, 
it could be a sign that something is wrong.
Clogged air ducts, a failing thermostat, or problems with the blower fan may cause uneven heating. Addressing these issues early ensures your furnace works efficiently and keeps your home warm.
Strange Noises
Furnaces can make some noise while running, but if you hear strange sounds such as banging, squealing, or rattling, it’s a sign that something might be wrong. These noises could indicate issues like a dirty burner, a loose part, or a malfunctioning fan.
Ignoring unusual sounds can lead to more significant damage and expensive repairs. We recommend scheduling an inspection before winter hits if you hear strange noises.
Increased Energy Bills
A sudden spike in your energy bills, even though your usage has remained the same, could indicate that your furnace is not working efficiently. Over time, parts can become worn out, forcing the system to work harder to maintain the desired temperature.
This can lead to higher energy consumption and increased utility bills. If you notice an unexplained rise in energy costs, it’s time to check your furnace for potential repairs or maintenance.
Frequent Cycling On and Off
If your furnace constantly turns on and off without maintaining a steady cycle, it could be a sign of a problem with the thermostat, air filter, or ignition system. This issue, known as “short cycling,” can place unnecessary stress, leading to more significant problems in the future.
Having a professional assess the issue will help determine the cause and prevent further damage to your system.
Foul or Burning Smells
When you first turn on your furnace at the beginning of the season, a burning smell is relatively common and typically dissipates after the first few minutes.
However, noticing a persistent burning smell or a strong, unpleasant odour could indicate a serious issue, such as a problem with the electrical components, a gas leak, or a clogged burner.
Never ignore foul smells from your furnace. If the odour persists, shutting it off and contacting a professional immediately to inspect and address the problem is important.
Yellow or Flickering Pilot Light
If your furnace has a pilot light, it should be a steady blue. A yellow or flickering pilot light can indicate a problem, such as a gas supply issue or a dirty burner. This can lead to inefficient heating and even pose a safety risk.
If you notice that the pilot light isn’t functioning properly, it’s essential to have it inspected by a professional to prevent further complications.
High Humidity or Dry Air
Your furnace should help maintain a comfortable level of humidity in your home. If you notice that the air feels excessively dry or humid, it could be a sign that yours isn’t operating properly.
A malfunctioning furnace may not be able to maintain proper humidity levels, which can lead to discomfort, static electricity, and even damage to your furniture or wooden floors.
A professional inspection can help determine whether your furnace or another system, such as a humidifier, needs attention.
Age of Your Furnace
They typically last between 15 to 20 years, depending on usage and maintenance. If yours is approaching or has exceeded this age, it’s a good idea to start planning for a replacement or repair.
Older ones are more prone to frequent breakdowns and may be less energy-efficient than newer models. Even if yours is still running, having it checked by a professional can help ensure it’s operating safely and efficiently.
Frequent Thermostat Adjustments
Constantly adjusting the thermostat to maintain a comfortable temperature could indicate a problem. 
A malfunctioning thermostat can cause the furnace to overheat or fail to provide consistent heating. Calibrating or repairing your thermostat can restore efficiency and prevent unnecessary temperature fluctuations.
Conclusion
Keeping your furnace in good working condition is essential for staying warm and safe during Ottawa’s long, cold winters. If you notice these signs, acting quickly and scheduling an inspection and repair is important.
Advanced HVAC offers professional repair services to ensure your home stays warm throughout winter. Don’t wait until the cold weather arrives—contact us today to schedule your inspection and keep your heating system in top shape.
Whether you require installation, repair, or maintenance, our technicians will assist you with top-quality service at any time of the day or night. Take comfort in knowing your indoor air quality is the best it can be with MOE heating & cooling services Ontario's solution for heating, air conditioning, and ventilation that’s cooler than the rest.
Contact us to schedule a visit. Our qualified team of technicians, are always ready to help you and guide you for heating and cooling issues. Weather you want to replace an old furnace or install a brand new air conditioner, we are here to help you. Our main office is at Kitchener but we can service most of Ontario's cities
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