Furnace Repair Salinas

Frequently Asked Questions about Furnace Repair

How do I know when it's time to replace my furnace?

Here are signs that your furnace is nearing the end of its lifespan and may need replacing::

• Age: If your furnace is 15-20 years old or older, it's likely less efficient and more prone to breakdowns.
• Frequent Repairs: Multiple repairs, especially costly ones, suggest it's more economical to invest in a new, more reliable unit..
• High Energy Bills: A spike in your heating bills could mean an inefficient furnace.
• Uneven Temperatures: If some rooms in your house are colder than others, it could indicate problems with your furnace or ductwork.
• Strange Noises: Unusual or loud sounds suggest mechanical issues.
• Yellow or Flickering Burner Flame: A healthy furnace flame should be blue. A yellow or flickering flame can indicate a variety of issues. This should be addressed right away.
• Dry or Dusty Air: An old furnace may cause dry, dusty indoor air. A new furnace with improved filtration can help alleviate this problem.

Don't ignore potential furnace problems.

How do I find a good furnace repair company?

Choosing a furnace repair company is crucial. Here are some qualities to consider:

• Licensed and Insured: Ensure the company has the necessary licenses and insurance to operate in your area.
• Experienced: Look for a company with a proven track record in furnace repair. Consider technicians who specialize in your system's make and model.
• Reputable: Check online reviews and ratings to gauge the company's reputation and customer satisfaction. Look for companies with positive reviews from previous clients.
• Transparent Pricing: Ask for a detailed estimate before any work begins.
• Available 24/7 (for emergencies): If you experience a furnace breakdown outside of regular business hours, make sure the company offers 24/7 emergency repair service.

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What is an AFUE rating?

AFUE stands for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency. It is a measure of how effectively a furnace converts fuel to heat. . It's a percentage reflecting how much of the energy in the fuel becomes heat for your space. For instance, a furnace with a 95% AFUE rating converts 95% of the fuel's energy into usable heat, while the remaining 5% is lost as exhaust gases.. Higher AFUE ratings mean greater efficiency and lower heating costs. The minimum AFUE rating for new furnaces is 80%, but high-efficiency models can have AFUE ratings of 90% to 98% or more.

Why is my furnace making strange noises?

Unusual sounds from your furnace can indicate a variety of problems, it's important to pay attention to these sounds to identify potential issues early on:

• Banging or popping: Could indicate a buildup of sediment in the heat exchanger.
• Squealing or screeching: Often indicates an issue with the blower motor or other moving parts.
• Rumbling or vibrating: Check for loose parts or components.
• Clicking: Could be from the igniter, but it can also come from other electrical problems Electrical issues can be hazardous, so contact a professional.
• Whining: Often caused by a problem with the blower motor or inducer motor.

If your furnace is making unusual sounds, recommended to contact a qualified HVAC technician for diagnosis and repair. Ignoring unusual sounds can lead to further damage or costly repairs down the road.