As temperatures drop, your furnace shifts from a luxury to an essential part of your Collinsville, IL home. But like any mechanical system, it can break down unexpectedly. Knowing the signs of serious furnace trouble can help you avoid a full-blown emergency and keep your home safe and warm. Here are the key warning signs that indicate it’s time to call for emergency furnace repair.
Your Furnace Stops Producing Heat
This is the most obvious sign of a serious problem. If your furnace is running but no warm air is coming through the vents, or if it won’t turn on at all, it’s time to call for immediate help. This could be due to issues with the thermostat, ignition system, pilot light, or even a failed blower motor. When the heat is completely out, especially in freezing temperatures, it’s an emergency.
Strange or Loud Noises
Furnaces don’t operate in complete silence, but unusual sounds like banging, grinding, screeching, or rattling could indicate mechanical failure. These noises might be warning you about a broken motor, a cracked heat exchanger, or loose components. Ignoring them could result in more damage—and a more expensive repair.
Unusual Smells or Burning Odors
If you smell something burning when your furnace turns on, pay close attention. A slight burnt dust smell can be normal when first starting up for the season. However, if the burning smell lingers or resembles melting plastic, musty wiring, or smoke, it could point to overheating or an electrical problem. In these cases, shut off the furnace and call a professional right away.
Short Cycling or Constant Running
If your furnace turns on and off repeatedly (short cycling) or runs continuously without reaching the desired temperature, this is a red flag. It could point to problems like a malfunctioning thermostat, clogged air filter, overheating system, or poor airflow. Not only does this reduce efficiency, but it also places excess wear on your system and may signal something more serious.
Carbon Monoxide Detector Goes Off
This is a true emergency. If your carbon monoxide detector starts beeping, leave your Collinsville, IL home immediately and call emergency services without delay. This gas is both invisible and scentless—and extremely dangerous. A cracked heat exchanger is often the culprit in older or poorly maintained furnaces. Once you’re safe, contact an HVAC technician to inspect and repair the system.
Yellow or Flickering Pilot Light
Your furnace’s pilot light should be a steady blue flame. A yellow or flickering flame can signal a ventilation issue or the presence of carbon monoxide. This requires urgent professional attention to prevent potential safety hazards.
Having issues with your furnace in your Collinsville, IL home? Call Dixon Heating & Cooling today.