Tag: halloween

Get Chills From a Spooky Halloween Party, Not a Broken Heater

Technician performing maintenance on HVAC equipment using tools like a wrench and handling wiring.

Common Signs That the Heater Needs Repair

As much as a faulty or broken heater can be inconvenient, especially in winter, it can also be dangerous. Nothing is scarier than having a heater break down during winter, leaving the family in the cold. Don’t take chances with a heater this fall. Stop heater problems in their tracks before they become stressful and unsafe by looking for common signs of a broken heater in need of repair. 

Home Is Still Chilly 

There are many signs that a person’s heater may be malfunctioning. The first sign may seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning. A common symptom of a broken heater is if the home is not heating up or doesn’t get warm enough when the heater is on. 

So, when the heating system is on, and the home temperature has little or nothing to show for it, it’s an obvious sign that the heating system requires the attention of an expert. Often, the heater will cycle and provide some heat, but not enough to keep the home comfortable. Or, overheating devices may be cutting off the heat early because something is wrong. If a homeowner notices any of these heating issues, they should immediately call for heater repair. 

Spooky Sounds or Unexpected Noises 

Young woman listening intently with a concerned expression, representing the need to pay attention to unusual sounds from heating systems.Strange and unusual noises coming from the heating system are another sign to get heater repairs. Some common sounds malfunctioning heaters can make include thumping, rattling, squealing, humming, banging, and whistling. The type of sound it makes often depends on the issue. 

For example, when it makes a rattling sound, it may be due to broken and loose parts or a cracked heat exchanger. Any time new noises are heard with the heater, it’s best to call for professional heater repair, where a professional can inspect the system and diagnose the problem to ensure reliable operation through the colder months. 

Frighteningly High Energy Bills 

Man in a green sweater looking shocked while examining a high energy bill, illustrating concerns about rising heating costs and the need for HVAC maintenance.Another way homeowners can tell something is wrong with their heating systems is if there is a spike in energy costs. When heating bills start rising around this time of year, they should be relatively similar in cost to the same time last year. If there is an unexplained spike in utility bills but the household’s energy use and the price of utilities have stayed relatively the same, chances are something is wrong. 

Heating repair can help keep energy bills low and restore the heater to proper working condition. When energy bills climb, it may also indicate heating maintenance has been neglected or a problem with the gas line or burner. Allowing a professional to inspect and repair the system will not only save money but also keep the home safe. 

About Jerry Brittingham A/C & Heat, Inc.

Jerry Brittingham A/C & Heat, Inc. is a dependable heating and air conditioning company serving Daytona Beach and the surrounding areas since 2002. They provide transparent pricing options, prompt, professional service, and a satisfaction guarantee. Call them today for heater repair services in Daytona Beach, FL. 

Avoid Scary Problems With the Heater This Halloween

Two air conditioning units outdoors by Jerry Brittingham A/C & Heat, Inc., with gravel and a brick wall.

Things To Be Aware of This Fall

Once temperatures start to drop and homeowners begin using their heaters more often, there are certain dangers that homeowners should look out for and do their part to prevent.  Homeowners should be on the lookout for mold growth, carbon monoxide leaks, and strange sounds coming from the furnace that indicate it’s overheating. Keep reading for tips to avoid heating system scares this Halloween.

What To Do About Carbon Monoxide Leaks

Carbon monoxide detector from Kidde, emphasizing safety for homeowners during heating season, relevant for detecting leaks and preventing poisoning.Carbon monoxide poisoning is often associated with a broken furnace. It’s difficult to detect carbon monoxide because it is both odorless and invisible. Cracked heat exchangers in furnaces put a household at risk. These cracks allow gas to seep from the vents and into the home. Pilot lights that frequently blow out or have yellow instead of blue flames are signs of danger and indicate that homeowners should call a professional immediately.

The symptoms of carbon monoxide leaks are clear. Cases of chest pain, muscle weakness, confusion, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath are well reported. Carbon monoxide detectors are recommended for every household for quick detection and in case initial symptoms are too mild to be noticed or thought to be unrelated. Since carbon monoxide poisoning doesn’t happen in minutes, many of these symptoms will linger for hours. The entire household must immediately evacuate if a leak is suspected. Only trained professionals with the right tools and protection can help.

Mold Growth

Mold growth on an HVAC air vent, indicating potential moisture issues and health risks associated with indoor air quality.High indoor humidity and moisture from the heating or cooling systems can both migrate to the air ducts and cause mold growth. Moisture in the air ducts creates a humid environment perfect for mold growth. Because air ducts are usually closed, they are likely to go unnoticed unless there is a problem.

Most homeowners can smell or feel the warning signs even if the mold is not visible due to it growing in the ductwork. Mold has a musty odor that lingers close to areas with excessive moisture. Bathrooms, closets, and kitchens are especially at risk. Mold also causes a variety of health issues. Symptoms include wheezing, headache, runny nose, itching, and fatigue. Mold is also known to cause asthma. Difficulty with breathing is a serious problem and will need to be treated by a physician. If homeowners suspect they have mold growth in their HVAC system, they should call a qualified technician immediately. 

Can Furnaces Overheat?

A furnace is a heating system that produces warm air for a home during the colder seasons. Although this is the desired effect, sometimes furnaces overheat, which can cause fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. Homeowners who smell burning should immediately leave home and call a professional because this signifies an overheating furnace.

Poor air circulation affects the internal parts of a furnace. If the inside components become too hot, they can create sparks from contaminants in the air filter. Once the furnace coil is covered in grime, the heat exchanger can no longer support the blower motor. Thus the furnace continues to over-ventilate.

A loud humming noise can also indicate an overheating furnace. If this occurs, especially if accompanied by a burning smell, it is essential that homeowners call professionals for help to prevent a fire. Trained technicians can tell if the furnace is cycling at odd times and whether a replacement or repair is necessary.

Homeowners are advised to replace the air filters routinely to prevent their furnaces from overheating. If the air filters are non-disposable, they will need to be cleaned regularly instead. Annual furnace maintenance and tune-ups by a professional are also recommended every fall to keep it running efficiently and safely and to catch any potential issues before they worsen.

Jerry Brittingham A/C & Heat, Inc.

Jerry Brittingham A/C & Heat, Inc. has two decades of experience serving Daytona Beach, FL residents, and the surrounding areas. They offer transparent pricing, a membership plan, and financing options. Call them today for a furnace tune-up or repair in Daytona Beach, FL.