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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
