How Do I Know If My Heater Was Going Out?
Ever wonder if your heater might be on its last legs? It’s not always obvious, but there are some telltale signs you can look out for to know if your heater was going out. Let’s chat about how to spot a heater that’s about to call it quits, so you can make the call to a Service Minds One Hour HVAC professional.
First things first – keeping your heater in good shape isn’t just about staying cozy. It’s a safety thing too. Did you know that in 2020, heating equipment was behind over 53,000 house fires in the US? Yikes! That’s why it’s super important to keep an eye on how your heater’s doing.
7 Signs A Heater is Going Out
Rising Monthly Electricity Bill
Let’s start with your electricity bill. If it’s climbing faster than a cat up a tree, your heater might be working overtime just to keep up. Sure, sometimes it’s just energy prices going up, but if your bill’s consistently high, it might be time to give your heater a checkup.
Unusual Noises and Odors
Now, let’s talk about weird noises and smells. If your heater’s making sounds like it’s trying to start a rock band – you know, rattling, hissing, that kind of thing – it’s probably not happy. And smells? If you’re catching a whiff of something funky, especially if it’s chemical or metallic, that’s definitely not good. If you smell gas, get out of there pronto and call the pros at Service Minds One Hour! This is not a DIY heater project.
Age of the Heating Unit
Age is another factor. Just like us, heaters slow down as they get older. Most heaters last about 14 years. If yours is getting up there, it might start acting up more often. It’s a good idea to have someone take a look at it once a year, just to make sure everything’s ticking along nicely.
Struggles to Start or Stay On
Does your heater struggle to get going, or keep shutting off? That’s like a car that won’t start – definitely a sign something’s up. Don’t ignore it, or you might end up shivering one cold night! Ignoring these symptoms can lead to bigger failures down the line, so it’s important to address them early. Don’t hesitate to call a professional technician from One Hour in Birmingham, AL, who can diagnose the issue and suggest the right repairs or a heater replacement as needed.
Cold Spots in the Home
Here’s another clue: cold spots in your house. If some rooms feel like a fridge while others are toasty, your heater might not be spreading the warmth evenly anymore. No matter what type of heating system you have—whether it’s a furnace, heat pump, or radiant system—a checkup is in order. A Service Minds One Hour Air Conditioning & Heating professional can identify the cause of these cold spots and make adjustments or repairs to improve your home’s comfort.
Family Members Experiencing Flu-like Symptoms
Now, this next one’s really important. If anyone in your family’s feeling under the weather with headaches, dizziness, or just really tired, it could be carbon monoxide. You can’t see or smell this stuff, so make sure you’ve got a carbon monoxide detector. If you think there’s a problem, get out of the house and call for help right away.
History of Frequent Repairs
Lastly, if your heater’s breaking down more often than your teenager’s car, it might be time to think about replacing it. Sometimes, installing a new heater can actually save you money in the long run.
Oh, and a quick tip – if your heater conks out, don’t rely on your fireplace to heat the whole house. It might look cozy, but it’s not great at keeping your place warm. If you do use it, make sure to close the flue when you’re done to keep the warm air in.
So, what should you do if you spot any of these signs? Don’t panic! Just give a heating pro a call. They can figure out what’s going on and get things sorted out for you.
Remember, taking care of your heater isn’t just about comfort – it’s about keeping you and your family safe too. So keep an eye out for these signs, and don’t be shy about asking for help if something seems off. You can know if your heater is going out. Stay warm out there!