7 Common Signs Your Heating System Needs Attention

thermostat

The importance of a well-functioning heating system cannot be overstated. Regular maintenance and quick attention to any issues can ensure your home stays warm and cozy during the cold months. Ignoring the warning signs can lead to more significant problems and even a complete heating system breakdown. 

To help you identify these warning signs, we have compiled a list of the common signs that your heating system needs attention for either furnace repair or replacement. Addressing these issues promptly can save you money on energy bills and costly repairs and ensure the comfort and safety of your home.

1. Uneven Heating

You may notice that some rooms are significantly warmer than others or that the temperature fluctuates drastically from one area to another. This is uncomfortable and a sign that your heating system is not distributing heat properly. This could be due to various issues, such as dirty or clogged air filters, blocked air vents, or problems with the ductwork. 

Schedule a professional HVAC maintenance service to inspect your system and diagnose the issue to ensure efficient and even heating throughout your home.

2. Unusual Noises

A heating system in good working order should operate relatively quietly. If you hear unfamiliar noises from your furnace, such as banging, rattling, or squeaking, it is a sign that something is incorrect. 

These noises can indicate various issues, such as a loose or worn belt, a failing motor, or problems with the blower assembly. It is vital to address these issues promptly, as they can lead to more significant problems and potential system failure if left untreated.

3. Reduced Airflow

Reduced airflow can be caused by various issues, including dirty air filters, blocked air vents, or problems with the blower motor. 

A professional HVAC maintenance service can check the issue and recommend the appropriate action to restore proper airflow and ensure your home is heated efficiently.

4. Frequent Cycling

If your heating system is frequently turning on and off or “cycling,” it may be a sign that it is not operating efficiently. This can be caused by several issues, such as a dirty air filter, a malfunctioning thermostat, or an improperly sized system for your home. 

Frequent cycling can lead to increased wear and tear on your system, reduced efficiency, and higher energy bills. Call for a HVAC maintenance service to determine the cause and find a solution to the problem.

5. Increased Energy Bills

An unexpected increase in energy bills can indicate that your heating system is not operating efficiently. This can be due to various factors, such as a dirty air filter, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a poorly sized system for your home. 

Address these issues promptly, as they can lead to more significant problems and potential system failure if left untreated.

6. Yellow or Flickering Pilot Light

The pilot light on your furnace should be a steady blue flame. If you notice that the flame is yellow or flickering, it may be a sign that your heating system needs attention. A yellow or flickering flame can indicate incomplete combustion, producing carbon monoxide—a colourless, odourless, and potentially deadly gas. 

If you suspect that your heating system is producing carbon monoxide, it is crucial to have a professional HVAC technician inspect your system immediately.

7. Age of the System

The average lifespan of a heating system is between 15 and 20 years. If your system is approaching this age or older, consider changing it with a newer, more energy-efficient model. Older systems can become less efficient, increasing energy bills and a higher likelihood of breakdowns and expensive repairs. 

Consult a professional HVAC technician to determine whether to replace your aging heating system.

Conclusion

Regular maintenance and attention to any issues can ensure that your heating system operates efficiently and effectively throughout winter. By watching for these common signs, you can address potential problems before they escalate, ensuring the comfort and safety of your home. If you suspect your heating system may be experiencing any of these issues, consult a reliable HVAC technician to diagnose and resolve the problem.

Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning is a reliable and efficient HVAC company deeply rooted in the Durham Region. Catering to local families from Oshawa to Cobourg, we are committed to providing exceptional service and expertise in HVAC systems. For those seeking a trustworthy, experienced, and customer-focused HVAC maintenance service in Oshawa, contact us for any of your HVAC needs.

6 Telltale Signs Your Water Heater Requires Replacement

water heater

A water heater is an essential appliance in any household. It provides hot water for showering, washing dishes, laundry, and other daily activities. Without it, life can be uncomfortable, especially during the colder months. For this reason, you must have a reliable and functional water heater that can meet your hot water needs. However, it can only work for so long until it needs to be replaced.

A water heater typically lasts between 8 to 12 years, depending on the brand, type, and frequency of use. However, knowing when to replace your water heater before it completely breaks down is crucial. A malfunctioning water heater can cause many problems, including water damage, high energy bills, and even health hazards. Delaying the replacement can result in more damage and cost you more in the long run.

If you are unsure whether it is time to replace your water heater, these signs will tell you:

#1 – Rusty Water

If you notice rusty water coming from your faucets or showerhead, it could be a sign that your water heater is rusting. This is a common problem with older water heaters, especially steel ones. Rusty water is not only unpleasant to look at, but it can also be harmful to your health if consumed.

Fill a bucket with hot water to check if rusty water is coming from your water heater. Your water heater is likely the culprit if the water is still rusty. Consider replacing it as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

#2 – No Hot Water

If you turn on the tap and no hot water comes out, it is a sign that your water heater is malfunctioning. Several factors, including a faulty heating element, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a broken dip tube, can cause this. Before replacing your water heater, a professional plumber should diagnose the problem to determine whether it can be repaired.

#3 – The Tank Is Leaking

The tank is likely leaking if you notice water pooling around your water heater. Corrosion, a faulty relief valve, or old age can cause this. A leaking water heater can cause significant damage to your home, so you must address the issue as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the leak, you may need to replace your water heater immediately.

#4 – You Hear Strange Noises

If you hear strange noises from your water heater, such as popping or rumbling sounds, it could be a sign of sediment buildup in the tank. Over time, minerals and sediment can accumulate at the bottom of the tank, causing the heating element to work harder to heat the water. This can lead to a decreased water heater lifespan and higher energy bills.

Flushing the tank regularly can help prevent sediment buildup and prolong the life of your water heater. However, if the noises persist, it may be a sign of a bigger issue, and a professional plumber should be consulted.

#5 – Age

Water heaters typically have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years, depending on the type and usage. If your water heater is approaching or surpassing its expected lifespan, it may be time to consider a replacement. Water heaters become less efficient and more prone to breakdowns as they age. Replacing an older water heater with a newer, energy-efficient model can save you money on your energy bills and prevent unexpected repairs.

If you’re unsure about the age of your water heater, check the manufacturer’s label on the unit. The serial number typically contains information about the age of the water heater. Of course, you must also consider the usage and maintenance history of the water heater when determining if it’s time for a replacement. A professional plumber can help you make an informed decision based on the condition of your water heater.

#6 – Frequent Repairs

If your water heater needs repairs frequently, it might be a sign that it’s time for a replacement. While some repairs are routine throughout the lifespan of a water heater, frequent maintenance can indicate that the unit is reaching the end of its life. Additionally, these repairs can add up quickly and may eventually exceed the cost of a new water heater.

Conclusion

Replacing a water heater is sometimes necessary, especially if it’s too old. For this reason, you must hire a professional plumber or heating contractor to inspect your water heater and determine if it needs to be replaced. This way, you can avoid potential safety hazards, save money on energy bills, and ensure that you have a reliable source of hot water for your home.

Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning provides top-quality home heating services in Oshawa. Our professional HVAC contractors will ensure you get a system that suits your needs for fair prices. Call us today at 289-688-4822 to get a free quote!

4 Signs Something Is Wrong with Your Tankless Water Heater

Water Heater

Tankless water heaters are a great way to save energy and money on your water heating bills, but only when they’re working. Like any appliance, they can experience problems that can lead to costly repairs or even replacement. To ensure that your tankless water heater is running properly, it is important to be aware of any signs that something might be wrong. That way, you can quickly tackle the issue before it gets worse and costs you a fortune to address!

With that said, here are a couple of warning signs that there may be something wrong with your tankless water heater:

1. No Hot Water

One of the most obvious signs that something is wrong with your tankless water heater is if you suddenly have no hot water coming from the taps. This could be caused by a variety of issues, including a broken thermostat, a clogged filter, or a malfunctioning gas valve.

To fix this problem, you should first check the thermostat and make sure it is set to the right temperature. If it is not, adjust it accordingly and see if that solves the problem. If not, you may need to check the filter and clean or replace it if necessary. Finally, if the gas valve is not working, you will need to have it inspected and repaired by a professional.

2. Strange Noises

If you start to hear strange noises coming from your tankless water heater, this could be a sign that something is wrong. This could be caused by a build-up of sediment in the heater, which can cause it to overheat and make strange noises.

To address this problem, you will need to flush the tankless water heater to get rid of the sediment. You can do this yourself or hire a professional to do it for you.

3. Leaking

If you notice that there is water leaking from your tankless water heater, this is an indication that something is wrong. This could be caused by a loose connection, a broken valve, or a clog in the pipes.

To tackle the leak, you should first check the connections and make sure they are tight. If not, tighten them and see if that solves the problem. If not, you may need to have the valve or pipes inspected and repaired or replaced by a professional.

4. Low Water Pressure

If you are experiencing low water pressure at the tap, this could be a sign that your tankless water heater is not functioning properly. Low water pressure could be caused by a blocked line, a faulty valve, or a clogged filter.

If you suspect that the problem is a blocked line or a faulty valve, you should call a professional to inspect and repair the issue. If the problem is a clogged filter, you should replace it with a new one.

Conclusion

Tankless water heaters are an efficient and cost-effective way to provide hot water to your home, but you need to make sure you meet their maintenance needs and tackle any problems immediately. So, if you notice the signs above or are experiencing any of the tankless water heater problems, you should contact a professional for assistance. They can help you quickly meet your needs to ensure your home has the hot water you need to live a comfortable life!

Fortis Heating & Air Conditioning offers various HVAC services, from inspections to repairs and more, to help homes stay in great shape. If you are looking for Oshawa tankless water heater maintenance, get in touch with us today.