How to Tell If Your Furnace Is Short-Cycling & What to Do

The chill in the air means that winter is on its way. The freezing temperatures are likely to bring discomfort to your home. Make sure that you keep your family safe and warm from frigid nights by checking your furnace. It should be in perfect working condition. Any furnace issues should be fixed immediately. Some furnace problems are easier to fix than others. However, a problem like short-cycling needs professional attention. This issue is when your furnace runs then shuts off and starts again in short intervals.

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How Can I Tell If My Furnace Is Short Cycling?

A furnace that works as it should will turn on and run until it reaches the desired temperature. After this, it will shut off while your house maintains the heat level. It will switch on once the temperatures drop, but this usually takes a while. However, a short-cycling furnace will turn on and off in quick successions. It will not reach the set temperature. This constant turning on and off will wear out the furnace. As a result, your house will still feel cold even though the furnace is running.

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Causes Of Furnace Short Cycling

Short cycling must be fixed immediately. It drastically reduces your home’s energy efficiency. Not only that, but it also damages your furnace while your house remains cold and uncomfortable. Short cycling can be due to several reasons. The right fix will depend on the cause. Listed below are a few of the reasons your furnace is short cycling:

Dirty HVAC Air Filter

A dirty furnace filter can cause short cycling. A filter that is caked by pollutants does not allow proper airflow. Therefore, the furnace is unable to cool down properly. You will notice the air coming out of the vents is hotter than it should be as well. The heat will continue to increase until the furnace automatically switches off as built-in protection. Make sure to clean washable filters and replace disposable ones on a regular basis.

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Thermostat Is In The Wrong Spot

The thermostat is equipped with sensors to determine the temperature inside your home. This allows it to regulate the furnace per what the thermostat senses indoors. If the thermostat is placed on the wrong spot, it might not work as it should. You might have put it next to a direct heat source like a heating vent. This will tamper with its sensor readings. It will think that the house has already reached the set temperature and, consequently, it shuts the furnace down. Ensure that the thermostat is located in a neutral spot that is far from anything that can affect its sensors.

Bad Furnace Flame Sensor

A bad flame sensor means that the flame will go out as soon as it is lighted. The flame sensor monitors the gas valve. This is a safety precaution that ensures raw gas does not circulate throughout your house. It shuts the valve when there is no flame. A faulty sensor closes the gas valve even when it is needed. Cleaning might do the trick, but the sensor needs to be replaced if it doesn’t. Contact a professional HVAC tech to help you.

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The Furnace Is Overheating

Your heating system has a built-in safety measure to protect it from damage. Its job is to provide heating for your home, but that does not mean that your furnace can’t overheat. Overheating is usually caused by blocked vents, dirty filters, and other furnace problems. If the furnace temperature reaches dangerous levels, the furnace will shut off automatically. This will prevent further furnace damage like a cracked heat exchanger. Fatal doses of carbon monoxide can leak through these cracks, so this safety feature is vital.

Blocked Heating Air Vents

The air vents are where heated air is distributed throughout your home. When these are blocked, the hot air gets trapped inside and overheat the furnace. The furnace will short cycle until this issue is fixed. HVAC air vents are typically controlled via the dampers. It lets you control whether a room receives warm air or not. This control mechanism helps you be more energy efficient. However, keep in mind that at least 75 percent of these events must be open at all times. Having most of your vents closed might end up overheating your furnace.

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Blocked Exhaust Vent

Make sure that your exhaust vents are always open. Check if anything is blocking them. Snow might have piled up, or a nearby shrub might have grown too large. Remove these blockages immediately. Check the exhaust vent from time to time to ensure that it is not blocked. If a dangerous animal is blocking it, call animal control to help you remove them. It is always better to be safe than to expose yourself to harm’s way.

Furnace Is Too Large

Bigger is not always better. This applies to your furnace size. You might think it will work best for your house, but excess capacity will only lead to short cycling. The furnace parts will wear out quicker, hot and cold spots will be present in your home, and you will notice an increase in your heating bills. This problem can only be fixed by replacing the too large furnace with one that is sized correctly. An HVAC technician can conduct the required calculation to ensure that you have the size, make, and model that best suits your home heating needs.

 

Conclusion

Make sure your home is ready for winter by resolving all furnace issues immediately. If you think your heating unit is short cycling, look into the possible cause using the clues above. Get professional assistance from an HVAC tech. They can help find the solution and repair it as soon as possible. This way, you get to enjoy using your heating system for a long time.

Call Skylands Energy Service For All Of Your HVAC Requirements

Skylands Energy Service provides superior HVAC services in central New Jersey. Our company hires the best trained and certified technicians. We conduct excellent heating and cooling services like furnace repairs, boiler installations, ductless system replacements, furnace maintenance, and more. Each of our friendly technicians has extensive knowledge and experience to conduct fast and accurate HVAC services.

Skylands Energy Service guarantees affordable HVAC rates in the area. Our tune-ups can improve your home comfort and energy efficiency. It will also help keep your home energy costs in check. If you are looking for an HVAC replacement unit, we can provide you with the one that best suits your needs and budget. All our work comes with a guarantee. Your satisfaction is important to us. Schedule a service appointment by calling Skylands Energy Service today. We provide free, in-home estimates.

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How To Tell If An Ignitor On A Gas Furnace Is Working

A common repair with a gas furnace is when the gas furnace ignitor not working. When you recognize that the ignitor of your gas furnace is starting to malfunction, you can avoid a lot of stress. You can also decide if you can deal with the problem on your own or if you need to call in a skilled HVAC professional.

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How To Recognize When Your Gas Furnace Ignitor Is Not Functioning Properly

The workings of the ignitor of a gas furnace are not common knowledge. This article offers an explanation of how to recognize furnace ignitor troubles. Furthermore, this article shares pointers for recognizing when it is time to rely on a professional HVAC technician.

Ignition Systems On Gas Furnaces

Older furnaces relied on pilot lights to ignite the gas that burned to warm your home. The pilot light was always lit. When it was time for the furnace to start a heat cycle, valves opened and released and exposed gas to the pilot light. It ignited, burned, and brought heat to the home. Unfortunately, everything relied on the pilot light. If the pilot light went out, there was no way to ignite the gas coming through the valves. Consequently, the home would have no heat.

Today’s furnaces rely on electronic ignitors. These systems can be divided into two groups: pilot systems that are intermittent or ignition systems that rely on a hot surface.

A spark in the intermittent pilot system turns on the pilot light, as opposed to the old pilot light that burned continually. There is a sensor connected to the gas valves that can detect when the pilot is lit. When detected, the valves open, the burner is lit, and heat is produced. The hot surface system ignition sends electricity to the area of the burners. Once the electricity has heated up the area to a specified temperature, the gas is released to the burner and lit.

One advantage of these newer systems is that the pilot light is turned off after the furnace is running. Not having a pilot that is continually lit means more efficient operation.

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Failure Of The Furnace’s Electronic Ignition

If the electronic ignition doesn’t light, the burners cannot light, and there is no heat. Electronic ignition failure in a gas furnace means a furnace that cannot do its job.

A problem that is similar is the delayed ignition. If you hear a bang before the ignition, you can be pretty sure that you are dealing with delayed ignition. However, a delayed ignition carries a danger. Gases can accumulate if the ignitor fails repeatedly. This calls for immediate professional help from your HVAC company.

In either scenario, the end result is the same- no heat.

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Reasons For Furnace Ignitor Failure

Some of the more commonly encountered reasons for furnace ignitor failure include:

A Furnace Ignitor That Is Damaged

An ignitor will not last the life of your furnace. They wear out and/or become damaged. A certified HVAC technician can determine the condition of the gas furnace ignitor and know if it needs a replacement. To determine this, the professional must remove the panel to access the ignitor and assess the amount of damage. This process includes removing the wires to the ignitor and using a tool called a multimeter to test it.

Incorrect Ignitor Installed In The Furnace

Common sense dictates that ignition failure is an expected result of an ignitor that has the wrong voltage for the job at hand.

A Malfunctioning Limit Switch On The Furnace

All furnaces have a limit switch. This switch keeps the temperatures from reaching an unsafe level. A filter clogged with dirt may make the switch think temperatures are getting too high. Consequently, it may turn the ignitor off before it should. There are also various mechanical issues that can inhibit the ignitor.

Power Surges

Power surges can burn out the furnace ignitor. This is most likely to happen with the filaments that carry the warming electricity in the hot surface ignitor.

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Tips For Troubleshooting The Electronic Ignitor On Your Furnace

A little basic knowledge can help a homeowner with furnace troubleshooting. It will give you an idea of what the problem could be and help you communicate more effectively with a professional. Here are some basic troubleshooting ideas:

Check The Source Of Power

Check out the power source and determine if the circuit breaker has been tripped. It could be that simple.

Reset The Furnace Ignitor

Before attempting to reset the ignitor, make sure the power source for it has been turned off by flipping the circuit switch. Find the burner door on the furnace and look behind it to find the ignitor. Turn it to “OFF” and wait for five minutes. After you wait, turn it back on and return the door to the burner. It is important to make sure the switch on the door is properly engaged. By flipping the circuit switch back on, you will reconnect to the power source, and hopefully, the furnace will work properly.

Get In Touch With A Professional HVAC Company

It is tempting to try and save a few dollars with a DIY home furnace repair. However, when it comes to HVAC repairs, resist the urge. An untrained repair can cause costly damage, can postpone the comfort of a home, can add to stress levels, and even cause a threat to the health of loved ones.

There are many unknowns in furnace repair. Consider the furnace ignitor. Replacing an old ignitor may seem relatively easy, but there are details the amateur is not aware of. Even tasks that seem simple require a level of expertise. Naturally, enough basic knowledge of your furnace’s functioning will allow you to communicate effectively with your local HVAC company. It is good to arm yourself with a little information.

Allow a skilled technician, trained in HVAC repair, to set your mind at ease. Contact your local HVAC professionals for timely and quality furnace repair.

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Call Skylands Energy Service For All Of Your Furnace Repair Requirements

When looking for an excellent HVAC system repair company, do not hesitate to contact Skylands Energy Service. We will be happy to assist you. We provide free, no-obligation, in-home consultations.

Skylands Energy Service hires only the best licensed and certified HVAC technicians. Our services include HVAC maintenance, installations, repairs, and replacements. Rest assured that we can fix your HVAC system correctly and on time. All our heating and cooling services are affordable. When you need to replace your current system, we can help you find the best one that suits your needs and budget. Schedule an appointment by calling us today.

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Common Heating Oil Burner Problems

Updated 10/20/2020

There can be a wide range of problems that originate with a heating oil burner. You may hear unusual noise or see smoke that should not be there. When you notice such a problem, you can perform a visual inspection of the different parts of the oil burner. It is possible that you detect a common oil burner problem. However, do not try to repair anything on your own. Leave the repairs of such a complex device to a professional heating technician.

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Common Heating Oil Burner Problems

This article discusses what to look for when conducting a visual inspection of your heating oil burner.

Leakage Of Oil

Oil can leak from the oil tank, pipes, pipe fittings, valves, attachments, or filters. Take a close look at these parts. If you notice any sign of oil smudges or spills, it indicates an oil leak. Do not leave this problem unattended. A small leakage can develop into a bigger leak. It leads to air getting inside the oil pipes. It reduces the efficiency of the heating oil burner. Signs that indicate oil leakage problem include:

• Partially burned oil
• Sooty puff-back
• Burner shutdown
• Oil spillage around the storage tank

If your storage tank is installed under the ground, get help from an oil burner technician to test the device for traces of water in the heating oil.

Unusual Noises

This clearly indicates a problem in your heating oil furnace. You will hear abnormal noise when the burner’s electric motor, air fan, gas vent fan, motor bearings, or heating oil pump are not working properly. You will hear rumbling noises which indicates a problem with the oil burner’s heating lines. Pay attention to:

• The rubber bushing of the coupling assembly
• Blower bearing
• Electric motor bearings
• Mounting bolts
• Other internal parts

If you hear unusual noise while starting or shutting down the burner, it shows the oil pump or combustion chamber is not operating properly.

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Unnecessary Fuel Consumption

If you notice a sudden spike in fuel consumption, it may indicate improper adjustment. Complete cleaning and re-calibration are needed to fix this problem. It is possible the oil pump pressure was not set properly or it is no longer set at the right level. Its nozzle must meet manufacturer specifications.

Obvious Damages

Look for problems like rust, dents, and cracks on the exterior of the heating oil furnace. When you can see some of these issues on the heating system’s exterior, it can indicate a problem internally as well. Likewise, these problems are often seen in old oil burners. You should never ignore such problems because worn out and weakened parts pose safety dangers.

Oil Burner Doesn’t Start

 

Conclusion

You can identify problems in an oil furnace in two ways. You can perform a visual inspection to find problems that are obvious. Secondly, abnormal noises during machine operation indicate internal problems. If you notice any such problem, you should call a licensed and qualified heating oil furnace technician to solve the problem right away.

Call Skylands Energy Service For All Of Your Furnace Repair Requirements

A highly-skilled technician is a must when you need oil burner repairs. It is not something that an untrained individual can perform as a heating system repair should never be a DIY project. A tech will have the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to fix your heating system properly. Not all HVAC companies provide the same quality of work, so be sure to find one that’ll fit your needs.

When looking for an excellent HVAC system repair company, do not hesitate to contact Skylands Energy Service. We will be happy to assist you. We provide free, no-obligation, in-home consultations.

Skylands Energy Service hires only the best licensed and certified HVAC technicians. Our services include HVAC maintenance, installations, repairs, and replacements. Rest assured that we can fix your HVAC system correctly and on time. All our heating and cooling services are affordable. When you need to replace your current system, we can help you find the best one that suits your needs and budget. Schedule an appointment by calling us today.

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Furnace Repairs You May Need Before Winter

Your heating unit is probably the last thing on your mind, especially when preparing for the upcoming season However, it is best to check on it before the cold months begin. After all, its performance will help determine just how comfortable and safe your house will be during the winter season.

Therefore, it is a good idea to know some furnace repair tips. You should know that your heating system requires essential maintenance, at least before the cold season arrives. This way, you reduce the chances of it breaking down when you need it the most. It is a must, especially if your current system is old or if you overworked it last winter.

This article will talk about some of the signs that indicate your furnace needs repair. We also included a few furnace repair tips that’ll come in handy when you think you have a faulty furnace. This article also includes a short guide you can use when looking for an HVAC contractor in your area.

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Signs That You Need A Furnace Repair

How old your furnace is undoubtedly a factor, but it isn’t likely the only reason why your heating system needs repair. After all, a new furnace might get damaged, especially if it is neglected. Here are a few telltale signs to watch out for to help you determine if your HVAC system needs to be repaired:

Uncomfortable House

A house that is either too hot or too cold means that your furnace might not be working at its best. Some parts could be faulty. It could have a blocked filter, a loose belt, or a damaged fan motor. These and a couple of other issues could contribute to why your furnace is acting up.

High Energy Costs

A well-functioning furnace is energy-efficient. This is reflected in how much energy it consumes. If you notice a sudden increase in your energy costs without any reasonable explanation, your HVAC system likely needs to be checked. Call a licensed expert to conduct a proper inspection.

Hot/Cold Spots

If you notice that some parts of your house are cold while other parts are warm, then there could be a problem with your HVAC system. An HVAC system that’s in excellent condition should be able to cool or heat your home evenly. Cold or hot spots are an indication that you should have your furnace checked immediately.

Gas Leakage

Turn off your heating system when you smell gas or fuel. Call your local HVAC technician immediately as well. A leak in your furnace puts you and your family at risk. A tiny spark could cause a fire, or you could experience dizziness, nausea, and other symptoms.

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Troubleshooting Your Furnace

Not all of the issues that your furnace experiences need the hands of a professional. Homeowners can conduct a few simple repairs and preventative procedures to help keep your system operating efficiently. Some of the basic fixes you can do are:

• Furnace Filter Check: Filters block the impurities in the air from being distributed throughout your home. Therefore, air quality and airflow are negatively affected when it becomes clogged. It can even result in premature breakdowns and become a fire hazard. To prevent these issues, check the filter at least once a month. A blocked air filter should be cleaned or replaced when it is dirty.
• Thermostat Check: See if the batteries need to be changed. If there are any dust and dirt on the unit, use a soft brush or a soft, dry cloth to remove it.
• Power Check: Check the switch and electrical panel periodically. If your furnace doesn’t turn on, the electrical breaker might have been turned off. Check the fuses as well. Make sure to get them replaced with new ones if there is any damage or discoloration.
• Pilot Light Check: Ensure that both the pilot light and furnace flame are on. Check the owner’s manual before you try and relight the pilot light. Make sure you follow the instructions correctly. Check for any leaks before you try relighting it. If you detect a leakage, switch off the system and contact a local HVAC technician as soon as possible.
• Vent Check: Check if all registers and vents are open. Your furnace won’t heat your home evenly if they are closed, or something is blocking them. Remove any objects that are obstructing the vents to restore proper airflow.

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Common Furnace Issues You Might Encounter

Some of the common malfunctions that your furnace might experience include:

Damaged Blower Belt

If you hear a high-pitched squeal from your furnace, the culprit is most likely a damaged blower belt. It needs to be replaced for your furnace to operate correctly again.

Worn-Out Bearings

If you notice a scraping sound when you turn on your furnace, then you might have worn ball bearings on your hands. Call an HVAC technician immediately to have them replaced.

Frequent Cycling

A clear sign of short cycling is when a furnace repeatedly turns on and off. If this is the case, check if the issue is caused by the thermostat, a dirty filter, or blocked airflow. Call a professional if the problem isn’t any of the above.

Yellowish Or Flickering Pilot Light

The pilot light should be a blue flame with a yellow tip. If it is flickering or is yellow in color, the carbon monoxide level in the gas furnace is high. Call an expert immediately.

Cracked Heat Exchanger

Some of the signs that you have a damaged heat exchanger include an unusual smell around your house, and corrosion, soot, and cracks in your furnace. Contact an HVAC repair company to assist you.

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Repairing Or Replacing Your Furnace

Your furnace problem can be solved in either one of two ways. Sometimes, repairs work effectively. However, some situations call for a heating system replacement. Here are a few things to help you determine whether you need to replace your furnace:

• Age: It is recommended that you replace a system that is 17 years old above and has been in regular use. Of course, the best way to determine the condition of your furnace is by consulting with an HVAC contractor.
• Cost-Effectiveness: If you notice that your monthly heating costs have been steadily rising through the years despite regular tune-ups and repairs, then it may be time for a replacement.
• Poor Performance: A system does not operate as effectively as before will require a replacement. You might notice that there are cold or hot areas around your home.
• Frequent Repairs: Replace your furnace when your furnace requires many repairs or one that would cost 50 percent or more of a replacement system. If this is the case, buy a new furnace instead.

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Top Tips For Choosing An HVAC Repair Company

A trustworthy heating and cooling company gives you peace of mind. That is, you can rely on a company that can help you whenever things go wrong with your HVAC system. With a reliable HVAC company, your furnace will be back in perfect working condition in no time.

However, finding a good HVAC repair company isn’t that easy. Most homeowners will likely have a bad experience with a company at one point. Some of the problems a homeowner might encounter include the tech showing up late or not at all. The contractor might even cause more harm than good to the system as they try to fix a problem.

There are generally a few tips that can guide you when searching for a reputable HVAC company. Here are a few to help you find one in your area:

 

Look For A Specialist Heating Company

When looking for a professional for furnace repairs, look for a company instead of a repairman. Look for companies that specialize in heaters. This will be more advantageous to you.
First of all, you should contact an expert who has extensive knowledge of furnaces. They will also have experience working with various brands and models. Therefore, they will have the confidence to inspect your furnace and determine the issue correctly.

Working with a company also means you can work with more than one technician. If one cannot solve the problem, then another tech from the same company might be able to. Having a reputable company do the job might mean you have to spend a bit more than going for cheap HVAC repair. However, you will have the peace of mind knowing that your system is in capable hands. Moreover, you don’t have to pay twice for the same repair.

HVAC Company: Check The Website & Reviews

To help you choose the best HVAC company, check their website. This allows you to get a general sense of the company. The website should look professional and has a high production value. It should include the information you need to know about the company, including history and contact details. If it only has the bare minimum and the info is outdated, then you might want to think twice about hiring the company.

Look into the reviews and ratings that customers leave as well. These might actually help you with some questions regarding their professionality, response time, attitude, and more. Some companies include customer feedback on their website. This feedback will be helpful, but you also have to remember that the company runs the site. Therefore, they can control what goes on it.

If you want to read both bad and good reviews, go to Google or social media platforms. These sites have the reviews and ratings of all previous customers without the company controlling what gets posted or not. This is the best way to know what former customers actually think of the company. Search for key terms like “furnace repair near my location” or “furnace repair near me” to find a trusted HVAC company in your area.

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Reach Out To The Heating Repair Company

Call the company you have an interest in. Speak to a representative and assess the company’s values and principles. If the person you are talking to sounds friendly, knowledgeable, and glad to be of help, you should be in good hands. However, if they sound annoyed and confused, you might want to start looking for another HVAC company.

After you talked to several companies, go with the one you felt most at ease with. Listen to your instinct and give the company a chance.

 

Call Skylands Energy Service For All Of Your Furnace Repair Requirements

A highly-skilled technician is a must when you need furnace repairs. It is not something that an untrained individual can perform as a furnace should never be a DIY project. A tech will have the necessary knowledge, skills, and experience to fix your heating system properly. Not all HVAC companies provide the same quality of work, so be sure to find one that’ll fit your needs.

When looking for an excellent HVAC system repair company, do not hesitate to contact Skylands Energy Service. We will be happy to assist you. We provide free, no-obligation, in-home consultations.

Skylands Energy Service hires only the best licensed and certified HVAC technicians. Our services include HVAC maintenance, installations, repairs, and replacements. Rest assured that we can fix your HVAC system correctly and on time. All our heating and cooling services are affordable. When you need to replace your current system, we can help you find the best one that suits your needs and budget. Schedule an appointment by calling us today.

Call Now: (908) 707-1776 Read Our Reviews

Contact us now at (908) 707-1776 to find out more!

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What Happens When You Skip Annual Furnace Maintenance?

All machines need tune-ups to ensure that they operate in tiptop shape for a long time. This includes your furnace. Professionals recommend that your heating system receive annual furnace maintenance from an HVAC technician so that it continues to be a reliable heat source. Most homeowners know that this is a vital thing to do.

However, many still neglect to have their furnaces checked every year. Some forget to schedule a tune-up while others skip it altogether to save on costs. These people are satisfied with how their furnaces work and think nothing is wrong with their heating unit anyway. However, they do not realize that failure to have their furnaces checked leads to higher chances of their furnace experiencing several problems down the line. Naturally, this costs more.

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What Happens When You Skip Annual Furnace Maintenance?

This article will talk about the effects of skipping your annual furnace maintenance.

Failure To Address Furnace Problems Early On

Homeowners usually do not have the necessary training to spot if anything is wrong with their furnace. However, an expert’s trained eye can assess and determine issues your furnace is starting to have. These symptoms that amateurs might not notice as easily can be determined by an expert who has seen it many times before.

A furnace problem that is spotted early means it can be solved early. An expert can conduct the necessary repairs to keep the issue from getting worse. The solution is usually easy, cheap, and quick during this time. For instance, an HVAC technician will clean the furnace interior, lubricate the machine, replace the air filters, repair frayed wires, among others. Furnace maintenance keeps major breakdowns and expensive repairs from happening.

Furnace Breakdowns

A furnace that has faulty parts can result in the furnace eventually breaking down. It will not operate efficiently. It also won’t be able to keep your home warm and comfortable when you need it the most. If it is not remedied immediately, the issue might grow and affect the other components of your furnace. As a result, your heating system’s lifespan also decreases. Furnaces typically last for 10 to 15 years. However, skipping on furnace tune-ups can result in you needing to replace your furnace before that.

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Increase In Home Heating Costs

Without annual HVAC maintenance, the system will strain to provide the heat needed to keep your home warm and comfortable. Your system will require more energy to reach the set temperatures. As a result, there will be an increase in your monthly energy bills. You might have thought that you are saving money from skipping on furnace maintenance. However, the high heating costs associated with your unmaintained system actually costs you more. The upward push in your bill can be either gradual or sudden. Investing in an annual furnace tune-up will ensure this does not happen to you.

Fire Risks Due To Faulty Heating Units

Furnaces can cause a fire if it does not receive regular maintenance. Furnaces rarely spark fires, but it can still happen. Therefore, it must be taken seriously. The usual suspect for this is frayed wires.

During heater tune-ups, an HVAC expert will inspect all the system wirings to ensure that they are all in perfect working condition. Any potential danger will be corrected immediately as well. Professional furnace tune-ups allow you to use your system without fear. They also give you the confidence that your family is safe even with constant use.

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Poor Indoor Air Quality

The air that passes through your furnace carries contaminants, including dust, dirt, dander, pollen, and bacteria. Your furnace is equipped with air filters to block these impurities from getting distributed throughout your home. Unfortunately, these can get clogged as time passes. A dirty air filter is not as effective in blocking out these contaminants. As a result, these particles are spread throughout your house and cause health issues like coughs or allergies. These impurities can also harm the components of your furnace and affect its performance. Maintenance includes HVAC air filter replacements so that these problems are avoided.

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Reduced Home Comfort Level

A heating system provides consistent and even heating throughout your house. There are no cold spots, and you remain warm in any part of your house during the cold season. However, you might notice certain areas in your home feeling warmer than others. This reduced level of comfort might be a result of an aging heating system. However, it could also be because of blocked vents across the system. Professional HVAC technicians can help prevent this from happening as the vent system is part of their furnace maintenance checklist. They will also repair any leaks and make sure that air is flowing properly throughout the house.

Void A Furnace Warranty

Warranties are put in place to help deal with any needed repairs without the owner having to spend out-of-pocket. These will help the homeowner avoid financial difficulties from unexpected furnace breakdowns. Homeowners only need to remember that they need to keep their end of the contract for the warranties to remain valid. Otherwise, the manufacturer can void them. One of the usual stipulations from these warranties is that the need for regular professional maintenance. Therefore, schedule a yearly checkup for your furnace and make sure to keep all the records. This way, you can easily give them when a manufacturer asks for proof of maintenance.

When To Schedule A Furnace Tune-Up

The best time to arrange for furnace maintenance is from late spring to early fall. This is because the weather isn’t as cold and there are shorter wait times. Do not wait for the last minute to schedule a furnace tune-up. Call your local HVAC technician today and book a furnace maintenance appointment.

 

Call Skylands Energy Service For All Of Your HVAC Requirements

Skylands Energy Service offers high-quality HVAC services throughout Central New Jersey. Our company hires the best licensed and certified experts who can perform excellent HVAC services. These include heating and cooling repairs, maintenance, installations, and replacements. All our techs have years of experience and extensive knowledge, so rest assured that your HVAC system is under capable hands.

Our company offers competitive pricing for all our heating and cooling services. Our tune-up services will increase your system’s energy efficiency. They will also improve your home comfort and reduce your energy costs. When you need to have your HVAC system repaired or replaced, we can provide you with a solution that will best fit your home and budget. Your satisfaction is important to us, so all our work is backed with a guarantee. Schedule a service appointment by calling Skylands Energy Service today. We offer free, in-home estimates.

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Common Furnace FAQs

We are beginning to see a drop in temperatures as we are nearing the winter season. As such, this is the right time for homeowners to see if their furnaces are in good working condition. After checking the furnace, if you notice that something is not working properly or simply have doubts about the functionality of the furnace, it is best to call a heating expert to come and do repairs or a tune-up. Make sure that you take the necessary steps now because if you delay, it might be hard to get HVAC services in the middle of winter.

Many homeowners find themselves with a lot of questions regarding their furnaces around this time of the year. One of the major questions has to do with choosing the ideal service provider. For people who are looking to buy a new heating system, they would need advice regarding the best furnace for their home, as well as the long and short-term costs. This is where professional HVAC contractors come into play. They can answer all the questions that you may have regarding these issues.

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Common Furnace FAQs

In this article, we discuss some of the answers to the most common furnace FAQ.

Is Furnace Maintenance Really Necessary?

Absolutely. Servicing your furnace regularly is very important. You should note that manufacturers will honor a warranty only if you can provide proof of furnace maintenance. Usually, when you purchase the heating system, it comes with step by step instructions regarding how to maintain the unit. If you are a homeowner, the best thing you can do is to make sure that you follow the instructions in order to avoid unnecessary breakdowns and repairs. Regular servicing will ensure that the unit is safe for use, will last longer, and will always be working efficiently.

When Is The Right Time To Call An Expert For Repairs?

You should contact a heating professional the moment you see that there is an issue with the unit. If you hold off on calling for assistance, the problem might worsen and you might end up paying more in order to fix the issue. Contact a reputable HVAC company as soon as you can so that problems are fixed early.

When Should I Replace My Furnace?

There are many variations of furnaces on the market today. They differ in terms of quality and durability. As a result, it is difficult to come up with a particular timeframe within which to replace your furnace. A lot of these units can last for more than ten years if they are being maintained well. So, maybe you can start considering purchasing a new system after a period of about a decade or so; providing the one you have has lasted for that long.

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What Are the Signs That I Should Replace My Furnace?

Usually, you will know that you need to install a new furnace when you notice multiple issues such as unusual smells, pilot light failure, slow ignition, and insufficient heat. If you notice that your system doesn’t seem as energy efficient as it used to, it means that more energy is being consumed, resulting in increased monthly bills.

How Often Should Furnace Air Filters Be Replaced?

HVAC filters help to provide clean and safe indoor air quality by stopping dust and dirt from getting into the unit. But as time goes on, those pollutants can clog up the surface of the filter. That is why air filters should be replaced on a regular basis according to the manual provided by the manufacturer.

Which Is The Best Furnace For My Home?

You can choose the type of furnace you want in your house. However, there are certain factors that you should consider. These include heating capacity and AFUE rating. In terms of the rating, the ideal rating should be above 80%.

How Can I Lessen My Home Heating Costs?

One of the best ways you can reduce the bill is by making sure that system maintenance is done frequently. If the system is well maintained, it will be more energy-efficient, resulting in decreased fuel consumption. It also helps to set the thermostat to temperature levels that are on the milder side.

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How Is Furnace Size Or Capacity Determined?

In order to know the right furnace size for your home, there are a number of factors you need to take into account. These include regional climate, entire floor space, insulation, the height of the ceiling, and orientation. A skilled contractor can assist you by conducting a Manual J Load Calculation which will give you the exact figure.

How Durable Is A New Furnace?

Again, there are many variations of furnaces on the market nowadays. Therefore, there is also a variation when it comes to durability. If you get the correct unit for your home and if you ensure that it is well maintained, you can get more than twenty years of use.

What Is An AFUE Rating Of A Furnace?

AFUE basically stands for the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency ratio. It calculates the system’s heat production compared to fuel consumption. A good rating should be 80% or more; an excellent rating being above 90%. The user manual will guide you on how to find the rating. However, it is normally on the faceplate.

 

Conclusion

Most people rely on their furnaces to give comfort and warmth during those long cold months. You can even go for more than twenty years with the same unit. However, as a homeowner, you also have a part to play if you want the unit to last that long. It is your responsibility to make sure that regular furnace maintenance is done. Make sure that you replace the air filters frequently and contact an expert for annual servicing.

Call Skylands Energy Service For All Of Your Heating Needs

Skylands Energy Service offers exceptional heating and cooling services in the area. Our technicians are certified and they are available to repair, tune-up, replace, or install your heating systems. They have the requisite know-how and experience to assist you.

Do you need your heating unit to be repaired or replaced? Then you have come to the right place. Skylands Energy Service offers the cheapest furnace replacement and repair costs in the area. We can find the best furnace for your home based on your particular budget. Also, we always take into account important factors such as indoor air quality, energy efficiency, and comfort. Give us a call today to make an appointment and get an in-home estimate totally free.

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Items To Include In Your Fall Checklist For Home Maintenance

Fall offers a sweet respite between the hot temperatures of summer and the cold temperatures of winter, bringing with it lovely foliage, carved pumpkins, and football games that are downright action-packed.

This season, however, also comes with messy, leaf-strewn yards, temperatures that are increasingly cold, and a variety of other concerns.

Homeowners who are diligent in their efforts to get ready for fall will be well-prepared for the much harsher, much colder, and far more challenging months of winter. Drafting your own fall checklist for home maintenance will make your efforts far less time-consuming while ensuring an optimum outcome.

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The Homeowner’s Checklist For Fall Maintenance

This article discusses a variety of ways to get your home cold season-ready as fall comes rolling in.

1. Set Up An Appointment To Have A Heater Tune-Up Performed

Throughout fall and all the way through winter, the temperatures will steadily fall. At one time or another, you’re going to have to turn your home heating system on for warmth. As such, you should take steps to make sure that your heater is up to the job.

Your home heating system should receive a yearly heating system tune-up from a qualified HVAC technician. These professionals are able to thoroughly inspect HVAC systems and all of their components, complete basic repairs, and provide routine cleaning, system lubrication, and other maintenance support. Tuning up your heater will improve the quality of air within your home, promote a more reliable and efficient level of operation, and prevent problems. Get in touch with Skylands Energy Service right now to set up your heater tune-up.

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2. Make An Appointment For Heating Oil Delivery

When your home requires heating oil, you should always schedule your fuel oil delivery services in the fall. This will ensure that your household is prepared for the tough winter climate. Paying for this essential resource before the peak season actually arrives will give you the additional benefit of lower prices. Call Skylands Energy Service to get detailed information on our current range of heating oil delivery services, our payment plans, and our fuel oil delivery options.

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3. Eliminate Any Cracks Or Gaps Near Your Doors And Windows To Boost Overall Energy Efficiency

Your heater will be working hard for no good reason if heated air is constantly able to escape through any cracks or gaps at your windows or your doors. These things will actually make your heater work longer and harder while using more fuel, just to create a comfortable indoor temperature. This makes it wise to check doors and windows for any possible leakage. Seal up gaps and cracks with materials like caulk, window film, foam tape, or weatherstripping. If you hang insulated curtains, this will also improve energy efficiency. You also want to verify that all insulation in your home has the appropriate R-value and that there is an adequate amount of insulation overall.

5. Check Carbon Monoxide And Smoke Detector Batteries

A malfunctioning heater might emit smoke or start leaking small amounts of carbon monoxide. These developments are dangerous and must be identified and resolved immediately if serious consequences are to be avoided. The smoke usually means that there is a fire, and fire can damage the entire house. Carbon monoxide has no odor or color, but it can be fatal. Given that you’ll be putting your heater back into commission soon, check the batteries in your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors to make sure that these critical alert systems are actually working.

6. Promote Winter Safety At All Driveways, Paths, Walkways, And Stairs

Winter is coming fast. Before the cold season actually arrives, make sure that the exterior of your home is safe. Do this by checking all property features that are exposed to the elements. As an example, your driveway, stairs, railings, and walkways should be readied for cold, icy weather so that injuries and the accidents that cause them can be avoided. Broken or damaged features should be tended to as these repairs will only become more challenging when the snow starts to fall. Make sure that you have sturdy, reliable railings in place. Check to verify that the driveway and other paved areas are smooth, hazard-free, and easy to shovel.

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6. Shrubbery And Trees Must Be Cared For

Trees have a very beautiful aesthetic in autumn. Certain changes in their characteristics, particularly the bright colors of their leaves can be visually arresting. Some of these changes, however, may be indicators of how well this foliage is currently doing. For instance, if leaves start changing much earlier than they normally do or if you start noticing an abundance of dead branches, then your trees or shrubs could be battling the disease. Consulting with an arborist is a great way to get help on all your tree maintenance.

7. Rake Up All Dry, Dead Leaves

At the very start of fall, just as the leaves begin to change color and drift to the ground, you may be excited and happy to see this lovely display. You might even be tempted to let this debris build up while you tackle other home maintenance and chores. Even though piles of leaves can look romantic in early autumn, they’ll appear far less so once they’re covered in snow. This is something that can even inhibit growth in the spring. Try to rake up dead leaves as quickly as you can.

8. The Gutters And Downspouts Need To Be Cleaned

Some dead leaves, twigs, and branches will fall to the ground, but others will wind up in your gutters and on your roof. These build-ups can block water that would otherwise drain off your roof. Dead, rotting, organic materials can also be very attractive to pests. Make sure to clean out all of your gutters and downspouts as often as needed, and according to how close your home is to trees. If your rooftop is too hard to reach, think about hiring a professional gutter cleaner instead.

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9. Take Care Of All Needed Repairs At The Building Exterior

While you’re cleaning your gutters, check for damage or evidence of damage at the roof. Also, take a minute to check for damages or other problems at the building foundation. Because of the constant environmental stress that the exterior of your home is subjected to, problems tend to develop much more quickly here than they do on the inside of the building. If issues are identified, get them taken care of before winter comes rolling in.

10. Drain Hoses And Faucets At The Building Exterior Should Be Cut Off

One last but very important item on your fall maintenance checklist should be to turn off all store hoses and any faucets that are at the building exterior. This will prevent your pipes from freezing up when the temperatures drop. You don’t want there to be any water flow coming to fixtures that expose as this liquid will freeze, expand, and may cause serious harm to the plumbing system. Drain all water out before the outside temperatures reach their lowest point. You can also use spigot covers to protect your outdoor faucets from temperature extremes.

 

Call Skylands Energy Service For Superior Home Comfort Services

You can always connect with Skylands Energy Service when seeking reliable, affordable services for home comfort. Our expansive suite of quality HVAC services includes furnace installations, tune-ups, and repairs. The technicians on our team are highly qualified, experienced, and trained and they can help you enjoy a better-performing and far more efficient HVAC system overall.

Fuel oil delivery is another service that we specialize in. We offer affordable prices on heating oil with rapid and reliable delivery. Check out our large number of payment plans and delivery options. With these, you can customize your delivery to suit your needs. Set up an appointment by call Skylands Energy Service.

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