Winter has set in across Michigan. An efficient furnace will not only keep your house warm in Troy but also help save on energy bills. Even the best heating systems lose their efficiency with time, long before they actually break down. Birmingham Plumbing, Heating & Cooling’s licensed technicians share some early warning signs that most furnaces display when something is about to go wrong, so you can get to know them and act on time.
Here are the most common signs your furnace is becoming less efficient. This is what you should do if you notice them.
1. Your Energy Bills Are Rising
If your monthly bills are rising even though you have not increased your furnace use, your furnace is likely working overtime. Reduced efficiency means the system has to work harder to maintain comfortable temperatures.
Get a professional tune-up or repair done on the furnace to regain the lost efficiency and also replace any worn-out components before they completely break down.
2. Hot and Cold Spots Around the Home
One of the most apparent signs that your furnace is not blowing hot air properly is uneven heating. This could result from blocked filters, duct leaks, or a failing component in the blower.
If you have noticed temperature variations within your home, then it’s time to call for an inspection so that the exact problem can be determined.
3. Furnace Runs Constantly or Short Cycles
A continuously running or short-cycling furnace is most likely suffering from restricted airflow, a problem with the thermostat, or internal wear that has made it less efficient. In fact, this means extra consumption of energy as well as wearing out the system’s lifespan.
Regular maintenance keeps these issues in check and saves them from evolving into bigger failures.
4. Strange Noises or Odors
Grinding, rattling, or banging sounds are not normal. Burning or musty smells are also not normal. These could be symptoms of mechanical problems, dirty burners, or airflow issues.
For safety and efficiency reasons, schedule a professional heating service as soon as you notice these changes.
5. Your Furnace Is 10–15 Years Old
Most furnaces maintain optimum efficiency until they are about ten to twelve years old. Significant energy consumption characterized by frequent repairs can be noticed in systems older than this, and such a system may not even comply with the current standards of efficiency.
If your furnace is within this age bracket, then only a technician can determine whether it will be more economical to repair or replace it.
What to Do If You Notice the Signs
The best step is to schedule a professional inspection. Our team can:
- Clean and optimize your system
- Replace worn components
- Check airflow and duct condition
- Recommend repairs or upgrades
- Ensure safe operation during Michigan’s cold months.
Maintaining your furnace not only restores performance, but it also helps in preventing unexpected breakdowns during peak winter weather.
Keep Your Troy Home Warm and Efficient
If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, don’t wait until your furnace stops working.
Contact Birmingham Plumbing, Heating & Cooling to schedule a heating inspection or furnace repair.
