Winter is coming and you know what that means. Time to break out the heavy blankets and a cozy fire and it’s also time to start worrying about your heating system.
No matter how much you prepare, it always seems like your heating system manages to rack up quite the bill come wintertime.
But what if we told you there was a way to avoid those costly heating repair near me Germantown MD? We’re here to give you the scoop on all the red flags of a failing heating system so you can nip it in the bud before it’s too late.
Cold Spots
Do you find yourself huddling under a blanket in one corner of the room just to stay warm? If so, there’s a good chance your heating system isn’t doing its job properly.
A well-functioning system should evenly distribute heat throughout the entire space, so if you’re noticing cold spots, it’s time to give us a call.
There could be a number of reasons for this uneven heating, including:
- Leaking or blocked ductwork
- A problem with the furnace itself
- Insulation issues
Don’t suffer from cold spots any longer. Call us today for expert heating repair near me Germantown MD and we’ll get your heating system back on track!
Odd Noises
Is your heater making strange noises? While some sounds are normal (like the occasional popping or crackling), anything out of the ordinary is cause for concern.
If you hear banging, screeching, or whistling coming from your heater, shut it off immediately and contact us right away—those could be signs of serious damage and put you at risk for further issues down the road.
Uneven Heating
One of the most common signs that your heating system is on its last legs is uneven heating. If your home isn’t as warm as it used to be or some areas are warmer or cooler than others, it’s likely due to an issue with your heating system. This can be caused by a variety of issues, including a dirty air filter, blocked ductwork, or a faulty thermostat.
Frequent Repairs
If you find yourself calling for heating repair near me Germantown MD more and more often, it’s probably time to start thinking about replacing your heating system.
Frequent repairs are not only costly, but they’re also disruptive and can leave you without heat for extended periods of time.
A new heating system will be more reliable and require far fewer repairs, saving you time and money in the long run.
Rising Energy Bills
Are your heating bills through the roof? Your heating system might be the culprit! If you notice that you’re paying more to heat your home or office than you were last year, it’s likely due to inefficiency.
When a heating system starts to fail, it has to work harder to maintain the same level of comfort, which uses more energy and drives up costs.
Some simple tips can help you slash your energy bills and stay comfortable all winter long.
First, take a look at your thermostat. Is it set to “Auto” or “On?” If it’s on “Auto,” your system will only heat your home when the temperature drops below the set point. But if it’s on “On,” your system will run continuously, regardless of the temperature outside.
Next, check your furnace filter. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and make your furnace work harder to heat your home. Replacing a dirty filter with a clean one can lower your heating bills by up to 15 percent!
Finally, consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat can save you up to $180 per year in energy costs by automatically adjusting the temperature when you’re not home.
Pilot Light Keeps Going Out
If you have a gas-powered furnace, there’s a small flame that ignites the gas when the furnace is turned on. This flame is called the pilot light.
If the pilot light keeps going out, it’s usually because there’s a draft in the furnace that’s blowing out the flame. However, it could also be due to a problem with the gas line or thermocouple (a sensor that monitors the pilot light).
Either way, it’s best to have a professional in heating repair near me Germantown MD take a look at it before using the furnace again.
Water Around Your Furnace
Have you noticed water pooling around your furnace? It could be due to a number of different problems, such as a condensation leak or blocked drain line. In any case, water and electricity don’t mix—so this is definitely something you’ll want to get checked out by an expert in heating repair near me Germantown MD before using your furnace again.
No one likes dealing with a broken heater—especially in the middle of winter. Not only is it cold and uncomfortable, but it can also be expensive to repair. Luckily, there are some telltale signs that your heater is on its last legs so you can get ahead of any problems before they start.
Higher energy bills, cold spots in your home, and odd noises coming from your heater are all red flags that signify it’s time for a tune-up or replacement. So don’t wait until you’re left out in the cold—if you notice any of these problems with your heater, give us a call today!
What Should You Do to Prevent Emergency Heating Repairs? Maintenance is Key!
As we head into the colder months, it’s important to think about how we can prevent our heating systems from breaking down. After all, no one wants to be stuck in the cold without heat!
One of the best ways to prevent emergency heating repair near me Germantown MD is to schedule regular maintenance appointments with a qualified HVAC technician.
During these appointments, your technician will inspect your system for any potential problems and make any necessary repairs or adjustments. This will help keep your system running smoothly throughout the winter and help prevent any last-minute surprises.
1. Change your furnace filter regularly.
Your furnace filter protects your furnace from dust and other airborne particles that can cause it to overheat or break down prematurely. Most furnace filters should be changed every 1-3 months, but be sure to check yours frequently and replace it as needed. It’s an easy and inexpensive way to keep your furnace running smoothly.
2. Keep an eye on your thermostat settings.
Did you know that for every degree you lower your thermostat in the winter, you can save up to 5% on your energy bill? That adds up quickly!
We recommend setting your thermostat to 68 degrees during the day and 55 degrees at night when you’re home, and lowering it even further when you’re away at work or school. But don’t go too low—you don’t want your pipes to freeze!
3. Insulate any exposed pipes in your home.
Speaking of frozen pipes, one of the best ways to prevent them is by insulating any exposed pipes in your home—especially those in unheated areas like attics, crawl spaces, and garages. You can find pipe insulation at any hardware store, and it’s relatively inexpensive and easy to install yourself. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully so you don’t end up doing more harm than good!
Don’t wait until there’s a problem with your furnace to take action—a little preventative maintenance now can save you from stress and discomfort down the road.
Always be prepared for the possibility of a heating emergency by having an emergency plan in place.
Before a problem occurs, talk to your family about how to safely shut off the gas at the main valve in your home. Show them where the valve is located and make sure everyone knows how to turn it off.
In the event of an emergency, you will need to know how to shut off the gas before you can evacuate your home.
If a heating emergency occurs, follow these steps:
1. Immediately shut off the gas at the main valve if it is safe to do so.
2. Evacuate your home and move to a safe location.
3. Call 911 or your local emergency number for assistance.
4. Do not re-enter your home until it has been determined safe by authorities.
5. If you smell gas but cannot locate the source, leave your home immediately and call 911 or your local emergency number from a safe location. Do not re-enter your home until it has been determined safe by authorities.
6. Have your heating system checked by a professional before using it again.
Heating emergencies can be unpredictable and dangerous. It is important to have an emergency plan in place so that you and your family are prepared for anything. Always have a list of emergency phone numbers handy.
Need Heating Repair in Germantown, MD? Call Don Hoffacker Team Today!
If you’re in Germantown, MD and need heating repair, don’t hesitate to contact our heating experts. We have over 46 years of experience repairing all types of heating systems, from furnaces and boilers to heat pumps and ductless mini splits.
We provide fast, reliable service and our technicians are available for emergency repairs. Call us today at (301) 678-1766 to schedule a consultation.
