If you drive a modern vehicle, especially one with all the bells and whistles, you know about all the built in warning systems:
- They can steer themselves when you cross the centerline.
- Beep obnoxiously when you are backing up and get too close to an object.
- Adjust the speed of the cruise control automatically based on traffic.
- Brake on their own if you get too close to a car in front of you.
- Alert you when there is another vehicle in your blind spot.
There may be times when some of those warning systems may seem annoying, but we can all agree the increased safety is a great thing.
MODERN HVAC SYSTEMS ARE NO DIFFERENT
Just like those cars, modern furnaces are able to monitor themselves and alert you to furnace problems or let you know when it’s time for furnace maintenance. If yours starts beeping, the first step is to check the owner’s manual. You may be able to determine exactly why the furnace is beeping. It could be nothing more than a reminder to change the filter. But it could also be a problem requiring the services of a professional technician from Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing.
IGNORE THE BEEPING AT YOUR OWN RISK
You may find those beeping sounds to be annoying, but it’s happening for a reason. Let’s once again relate what’s happening with your furnace back to your car. You may be tempted to ignore the “check engine” light when it comes on because many times it’s just a minor issue. But you also know it’s a gamble that could end badly. Similarly, ignoring a beeping furnace can turn a minor repair into a major and expensive one.
FURNACE NOISES CAN TELL A STORY…IF YOU LISTEN
This is also a good time to remind you that listening to your furnace is always a good thing and can give you advance warning of furnace problems. Common examples include:
- Whistling—Almost all the time this is caused by air leaks or restricted airflow. It could be a clog of some sort including a really dirty filter or a restriction in the ductwork. Air leaks in the ductwork can also make a whistling noise as the heated air escapes.
- Loud Thuds—While many furnaces make a thudding sound when it turns on, if it is unusually loud or persistent it’s a good sign you have a furnace problem and need to call a professional.
- Squeaking or Squealing—This is commonly caused by bad bearings in the blower motor. Depending on how old your furnace is it could also be caused by loose or worn blower belts which are generally not used in newer furnaces. Either situation calls for furnace maintenance from a trained HVAC technician.
Serving Oakland County Since 1929
The best advice I can give you is to embrace the new technology built into the furnace in your Waterford, MI and Oxford, MI home. When used correctly it can go a long way toward preventing expensive furnace problems. If your furnace starts beeping, depend on Kotz Heating, Cooling & Plumbing for all the repair and furnace maintenance needs. To learn more about us and the services we offer be sure to like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.
