Heating Tips & Advice (22)
When it comes to maintaining a comfortable and healthy indoor environment, your furnace air filter plays an important role. Here ere are five essential things you need to know about furnace air filters to optimize HVAC performance and keep your air cleanThe Importance of Regular Replacement
Over time, furnace air filters collect dust, pollen, pet dander, and other airborne particles. As a result the filter will gradually become clogged, reducing airflow, and forcing your furnace to work harder. This will not only increase energy consumption, it can also lead to premature wear and tear on the internal parts of the furnace. Most experts recommend replacing disposable filters every 1-3 months, while washable filters should be cleaned on a similar schedule. Check with the filter manufacturer for the replacement interval for your filter.Different Types of Filters
Furnace air filters come in various types, each with its own set of advantages:Disposable Fiberglass Filters: These are the most common and are effective for blocking large dust particles. However, they might not be the best choice for filtering out smaller particles like pollen or mold spores.
Pleated Filters: Made from polyester or cotton paper, these filters can trap smaller particles and are more efficient than fiberglass filters.
HEPA Filters: High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters can capture at least 99.97% of particles 0.3 microns in diameter, making them ideal for households with allergy sufferers.
Washable Filters: These are reusable and can be a cost-effective choice in the long run, but they need regular cleaning to maintain efficiency.
MERV Ratings Matter
The Minimum Efficiency Reporting Value (MERV) rating indicates a filter's ability to capture and hold particles and pollutants. Ratings range from 1 (least efficient) to 20 (most efficient). For residential furnaces, a MERV rating between 8 and 11 is typically sufficient. However, if someone in the household has respiratory issues or allergies, consider a filter with a higher MERV rating.Can Furnace Filters Improve Indoor Air Quality?
The main purpose of a furnace filter is to keep dirty air from damaging your heating system. However, a clean and efficient furnace air filter can improve indoor air quality. By trapping pollutants, it prevents them from recirculating in your home. This is especially crucial for households with pets or sources of indoor air pollution.If you are concerned about particulate matter in your home, a quality HEPA filter or indoor air cleaner will do a better job of reducing the risk of respiratory issues and allergies caused by indoor air pollution.
Cost vs. Value
While it might be tempting to opt for the cheapest filter available, investing in a higher-quality HEPA filter can lead to energy savings, a longer-lasting furnace, and improved indoor air quality.Furnace air filters are more than just a routine maintenance item; they're a crucial component in ensuring a healthy and comfortable living environment.
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Heating Tips & Advice
When the Chicagoland winter sweeps through, having a reliable and efficient furnace becomes crucial for your safety and comfort. But with so many options available, how do you ensure you're making the right decision? The home heating experts at MR Plumbing Heating Air Electrical have put together a guide to selecting a new furnace for your home.
The Importance of Expert Advice
Before diving into features, it's important to understand the significance of partnering with an experienced HVAC company. The furnace you choose must be perfectly suited to your home's size and requirements. An oversized furnace will cycle on and off frequently, leading to wear and inefficiency, while an undersized one won't heat your home adequately. An experienced team like MR Plumbing Heating Air Electrical will ensure that you get a furnace tailored to your home's unique needs.Efficiency Matters
Furnace efficiency is gauged using the Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) rating. This percentage indicates the amount of fuel converted to heat. For instance, a furnace with an AFUE of 90% turns 90% of the fuel it uses into heat, with the remaining 10% lost.A higher AFUE means more savings on your utility bills. Not only does this translate to financial savings, but an efficient furnace also has a smaller carbon footprint, making it environmentally friendly.
Furnace Features To Consider
1. Variable-Speed Blowers
Unlike traditional blowers that operate at a fixed speed, variable-speed blowers adjust their speed based on your home's heating needs. This results in consistent temperatures, quiet operation, and energy savings.2. Variable Heat Output
Furnaces with this feature can adjust their heat output, ensuring optimal comfort levels. On colder days, the furnace operates at full capacity, while on milder days, it reduces its output, conserving energy.3. Air Filtration
Modern furnaces come with enhanced air filtration systems that capture dust, pollen, and other pollutants, ensuring better indoor air quality for your home.4. Dual Heat Exchanger
This component captures additional heat that would otherwise be lost, enhancing efficiency. With a dual heat exchanger, you get more warmth from the same amount of fuel.5. Ignition System
Gone are the days of pilot lights. Today’s furnaces use electronic ignition, which is safer, more reliable and energy-efficient.6. Zoned Heating
This system divides your home into zones, each with its thermostat. It ensures that each area is heated according to its needs, preventing energy wastage.7. Humidity
Maintaning healthy relative humidity levels during the cold, dry Chicagoland winters is important for comfort and health. Dry air is more than just an annoyance. It can cause respiratory irritation that can exacerbate health issues such as asthma. A whole-home humidifier can be integrated with your home's heating system to provide comfortable humidity levels throughout your entire home.8. Manufacturer's Warranty
A new furnace is a significant investment. Make sure to look for a model that offers a solid warranty, guaranteeing you peace of mind for years to come.Buying a gas furnace isn’t merely about choosing the latest model. It's about making an informed decision that guarantees comfort, energy savings, and longevity. At MR Plumbing Heating Air Electrical, we're committed to helping you make the right choice.
Looking for expert HVAC solutions in Chicagoland? Search no further than MR Plumbing Heating Air Electrical. Call us today!
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Heating Tips & Advice
Heating a home during a long Chicagoland winter can be costly. Having a reliable and efficient heating system is essential. However, just having a newer heating system isn't enough; regular maintenance is crucial for ensuring it runs efficiently, keeping your home cozy and your energy bills manageable. Whether you reside in an older home with a boiler, or a new home energy efficient furnace, the experts at MR Plumbing Heating Air Electrical have put together a few tips that will help keep your heating system running as efficiently and reliably as possible.
1. Routine Maintenance Inspections
Schedule a professional inspection of your heating system at least once a year, preferably well before winter sets in. A NATE certified technician will be able to detect and address any potential issues early on before they lead to problems down the road.2. Change the Furnace Filter
One of the most straightforward yet effective maintenance tasks, replacing or cleaning the furnace air filter regularly improves air quality and ensures optimal system efficiency.3. Check the Thermostat
Ensure your thermostat is functioning correctly. An outdated or malfunctioning thermostat can lead to uneven heating and increased energy bills. Have a programmable thermostat? Make sure the settings match your household routine. Better yet, invest in a smart thermostat that learns your routine and preferences automatically, automating efficiency and comfort control.4. Seal Leaks
Drafts and leaks can significantly affect the efficiency of your heating system. Ensure windows, doors, and ducts are sealed properly to keep the warm air in and the cold air out.Did you know that air ducts can be sealed from the inside? This special spray-on treatment can greatly reduce heat loss throughout your home.
5. Duct Cleaning
Dust and debris can accumulate around vents, causing blockages and reducing the efficiency of your system. Regularly clean vents, ducts, and other components.Schedule professional duct cleaning very few years or so to keep the air healthy and improve system efficiency.
6. Ensure Proper Ventilation
Blocked or covered vents and returns can strain your heating system. Make sure all vents are clear of furniture, carpets, or curtains.7. Upgrade When Necessary
If your heating system is getting long in the tooth and frequently requires repairs, or your home has rooms that are too cold, consider upgrading to a newer, more efficient model. Today's systems often come with energy-saving features that can reduce your heating bills.8. Improve Airflow With Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans not only circulate warm down air into your living space, they can also add style and light to complement any style.By following these tips you make a significant difference in the performance and lifespan of your heating system. Regular maintenance not only ensures consistent warmth throughout the colder months but also contributes to energy efficiency and safety. So, as winter approaches, give your heating system the attention it deserves!
Looking to replace your old furnace? The HVAC pros MR Plumbing Heating Air Electrical can assess your current system and provide a comprehensive heating system analysis to help you find the system that's a perfect fit for your home.
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Heating Tips & Advice
Fall Heating Season Checklist With energy costs on the rise this winter, many Chicagoland residents are looking for ways to save on their heating bill this season. Here are a few tips to keep your home warm and cozy while also maximizing your energy dollars.
1. Call to schedule your furnace tune-up
Regular furnace maintenance will help your heating system last longer and enable it to heat your home more efficiently.
2. Replace your furnace filter
A dirty air filter can cause unhealthy air and shorten the life of your furnace. Change your filter once a month, or as recommended by the filter manufacturer.
3. Turn down your thermostat to 68 degrees
For every degree you lower your heat in the 60-degree to 70-degree range, you'll save up to 5 percent on heating costs.
4. Program your thermostat
If you're on a regular schedule, set your thermostat to turn the temperature down when you are away from home. Better yet, upgrade to a smart thermostat. Smart thermostats learn your household routine, tuning the heat off when rooms are unoccupied.
5. Reverse the direction of your ceiling fans
In the fall, set the fan to direct the warm air downward towards the living space.
6. Check your smoke and CO detectors
Replace the batteries annually.
7. Check that air ducts are not blocked by rugs or furniture.
Keep all air registers open to help your heating system work efficiently.
8. Seal air leaks around windows and doors
Add additional attic insulation if needed.
9. Keep your fireplace damper closed unless a fire is burning.
An open chimney can allow a lot of heat to escape from your home.
10. Add an insulation blanket to your water heater tank
To retain heat and conserve hot water wrap your water heater in blanket designed to retain heat.
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How Long Does a Gas Furnace Last?
As winter weather settles in and you get ready to turn on your old furnace you may wonder just how much longer it will keep running. The general answer is about 20 years. But the answer is more complicated and depends on a lot of factors. Some of these factors include how well made the furnace is and whether it is a lower cost or more expensive higher end model. If it's a lower cost furnace it may be ready for replacement in as little as 8 years.
Thankfully, many of the factors that determine how long a furnace will last are under your control. The most important thing you can do is have your furnace professionally maintained every year. This will not only make the furnace last longer, it will help it operate more efficiently and reduce the cost of unexpected repairs.
Because most gas furnace parts can be replaced as they wear out, it's usually a good idea to repair the unit as parts wear out. The one part that usually ends the life of a furnace is the heat exchanger. Constant heating and cooling will eventually cause the heat exchanger to rust out or crack, leading to failure. With new gas furnaces operating at much higher efficiency than units made just 10 years ago, replacing the furnace may be more cost effective in the long run when compared to the repair cost of keeping a 10-15 year old furnace running.
For all your home heating needs, call M/R Plumbing. We'll keep you warm all winter long.
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Is Your Furnace Ready For the Heating Season?
If your home has a gas furnace, it’s important to learn how to check your system for potential problems to prevent unexpected breakdowns or inefficient operation.Replacing Your Furnace Filter
Paper or fiberglass furnace filters should be replaced every three months, or as recommended by the filter manufacturer. The furnace should be turned off before changing the filter. Never operate the furnace without a filter in place. Open the cover of the unit and then remove the filter. If the filter is reusable, vacuum it to clean the surface, or wash and dry it following the filter manufacturer's instructions. Turning the Furnace On
A gas furnace is typically controlled through the same thermostat as the air conditioner. This means that when the weather turns cold, you can simply turn your thermostat to the 'warm’ or 'heat’ setting and then adjust the temperature to your liking.Ensure There Is Airflow Throughout the Home
Ensure that all vents are open in every room and that the vents are not obstructed by rugs, drapes or furniture. If the inside of the vents appear dirty, have the ducts professionally cleaned to remove dirt and debris that can restrict airflow and cause unhealthy indoor air quality.If Your Gas Furnace Will Not Ignite
First, check that the thermostat is turned up a few degrees above current the room temperature. It may need to be 3-4 degrees higher. If it still does not turn on, check the electrical panel.What To Do If You Smell Gas
If you ever smell gas coming from the furnace, leave the home and call your gas company right away.Schedule Annual Heating System Maintenance
Regular system maintenance is important for ensuring that the furnace is operating safely and reliably. During an annual heating system inspection your technician will lubricate the furnace ports and bearings, reducing the amount of energy the unit needs to operate. Your technician will also clean the burners if they appear dirty and check for carbon monoxide leaks.
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Why You Should Upgrade Your Thermostat
Smart Thermostats Improve Comfort and Save Energy
Wireless technology has connected virtually every aspect of our lives. As our homes have become more and more connected with wi-fi devices managed from digital voice assistants and smart phone apps, the thermostat has also become more much smarter and capable.
Traditional thermostats adjust the indoor air temperature by working as a simple control input for a home's heating and cooling system. You simply set the temperature and the device keeps your home within that range near the thermostat's physical location. With the arrival of programmable thermostats homeowners could tailor the temperature of their home by programming the thermostat to turn on and off based on the day and time when the house would be occupied. This meant the heating or cooling system could be adjusted when you were away from home, saving energy.
Today, "smart" thermostats take the programmable thermostats to the next level by learning a household's routine and allowing homeowners to monitor and change the temperature automatically. They can also provide real time feedback on energy consumption, weather forecasts and even adapt the temperature based on conditions like humidity levels. Smart thermostats offer many advantages over conventional thermostats, from increased comfort, improved energy savings and remote access to temperature controls.
The Nest Thermostat
One of the first smart thermostats to market was The Nest® thermostat. It combines sleek design with a bright full color display to provide homeowners with useful information, combined with convenient remote apps designed to help cut energy consumption. The Nest is a learning thermostat that senses if a home is occupied, whether the air is suddenly getting humid, and other factors that allow it to custom tailor the indoor environment.Choosing a Smart Thermostat
When choosing a smart thermostat you will have many brands to choose from, and there are differences between manufacturers that you should be aware of. Here are a few questions to ask when shopping for a smart thermostat.Does it work remotely from your phone?
If you plan to use it from your phone make sure that the app works on your device.
Is it compatible with Other Technology in Your Home?
One of most convenient features of smart thermostats is their ability to interact with voice assistants like Google Home, Alexa® and Siri®. Check the manufacturer's website to see if your assistant is compatible with the thermostat models you are considering.
Tracking Savings
If you're primarily interested in improving efficiency and lowering energy costs, consider a model with data tracking and reporting. You'll be able to see hour-by-hour and day-by-day how often your heating and cooling system are operating.
Where Should My Smart Thermostat Be Installed?
When installing the thermostat it's important to keep it away from vents and sources of heat that could affect the temperature readings. Place the thermostat in an area with minimal disturbance such as an interior wall.
Do you have a "C-Wire"?
A C-wire, or common wire, provides continuous power to your smart thermostat display and WiFi connectivity. If you don’t have one or aren’t sure, give us a call and we can help install one if needed.
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Wednesday, 06 January 2021 22:14
No Heat? Here's what to Check Before Calling For Service
Written by MR PlumbingNo Heat? Here's what to Check Before Calling For Service
Furnace Won't Turn On? Boiler Not Heating? Before you call us for service there are few items you can check first. It could be a simple fix.
- Check That the Power Is On - Even though they are natural gas powered, your furnace requires electricity to start and keep running. Look for the circuit in your electrical panel. If the circuit has tripped and is in the OFF position, switch it back to the ON position. If the circuit trips again after resetting, DO NOT RESET IT MORE THAN ONCE, circuit breakers are a safety device to prevent an electrical fire in the event of a malfunction. Call us to inspect the furnace and electrical connection.
- Is the Thermostat Is Turned To the HEAT Position? If it is in the heat position, try turning the temperature up a few degrees to see if it turns on.
- Check the Furnace Condensate (Drain) Pan During normal operation water drains from the air conditioner or furnace into a condensation pan. If the drain for the pan is clogged the pan will fill up and trigger a float switch, which will prevent the operation of the furnace. If the float switch is up (activated), you will need to clear the obstruction from the drain line to allow water to empty and then reset the switch.
- Is the Furnace Filter Dirty? An excessively dirty and clogged filter will cause the furnace to overheat, which in turn will cause it to shut down as a safety precaution. Installing a new filter should solve the problem.
- Is the Pilot Light On? This only applies to older gas furnaces. Most newer units have electric ignition. If your pilot light is out consult your owner's manual for the correct way to light the pilot.
- Check the Natural Gas Supply. If there are other gas appliances in the home, such a gas range or fireplace, check that they are functioning. You may have an issue with your gas service.
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Furnace Filters and Indoor Air Quality
When it comes to choosing the right furnace air filter there are many options available. The efficiency of furnace filters is measured on the MERV scale, or Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values, which rates filter efficiency on a scale of 1-20. On the low end of the cost scale and MERV scale with a rating of 1-3 are disposable fiberglass filters. Made of 1-inch thick fiberglass, these filters are designed to prevent larger particles of dust, lint, and other debris from damaging your furnace.
Filters are tested and rated for for their ability to trap pollen, dust mites, mold spores, dust, pet dander, bacteria and tobacco smoke. Here are how effective the different MERV ratings are at removing various contaminants from the air. Here are
MERV 1-4 : Filters out pollen and dust mites.
MERV 5-8 : Removes mold and dust.
MERV 9-12 : Traps lead dust and most bacteria
MERV 12+ : Filters out all bacteria and tobacco smoke
When choosing an air filter for your HVAC system it may seem like a good idea to buy the filter with the highest MERV rating, since you want to have the cleanest air possible, right? In most cases, you should use a filter in the 5-8 range. The reason is that filters with a high MERV rating will have the smallest pores for air to pass through. This can make it harder for the HVAC system to push air through the filter, reducing system performance. To avoid restricting the air flow, filters with a higher MERV rating should be changed more frequently (at least every three months) to prevent damage to the HVAC system.
Ultimately, if your home's air is dirty enough to require a higher MERV rating, or you're changing air filters more than once a month, you may be better served by having a whole home air filtration system. A furnace air filter is really just designed to keep your HVAC equipment clean to prevent wear and tear. A whole house air filtration system is designed to actually clean the air inside the home.
How Good Is My Furnace Filter For Cleaning the Air In My Home?
Disposable pleated furnace filters are probably the most popular option. These filters are made from polyester or cotton paper and remove smaller particles like mold spores and mites, but should be changed frequently to avoid clogging and reducing airflow to the furnace. Pleated filters have a MERV rating of 6 and cost more than fiberglass filters.The most effective furnace air filters are disposable or permanent electrostatic filters. With a MERV rating of 10 or higher, they offer highly effective filtration and are recommended for homes where allergies or upper respiratory conditions are a concern.
Have questions about furnace filters and indoor air quality? Call MR Plumbing and Electric we're here to help.
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Heat Pump Versus Gas Furnace - What's The Better Choice?
With heat pumps gaining in popularity in some parts of the U.S., many homeowners are asking if a heat pump is a good option for their home heating and cooling needs. Here is an overview of how heat pumps work and how they differ from traditional gas furnaces.
The Differences
The main difference between a furnace and a heat pump is that a heat pump can be reversed to either heat or cool a home. A heat pump consists of two parts: an indoor unit called an air handler and an outdoor unit that is similar to a central air conditioner – called a heat pump. A compressor circulates refrigerant that absorbs and releases heat as it travels between the indoor and outdoor units.Depending on the season a heat pump exchanges the cool air with warm air, or the other way around. Even air that's seems cold can have heat energy. When it's cold outside the heat pump extracts the heat and transfers into the home. When it’s hot outside, it reverses the flow to work like an air conditioner, removing heat from your home.
When considering a heat pump it's important to understand that, unlike a gas furnace which creates heat, a heat pump can only exchange heat, and will be unable to deliver a high level of warm air that is required to heat homes in cold climates like the Chicago area.
Have home heating questions? Call MR Plumbing and Electric. We're here to help.
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Friday, 16 October 2020 16:01
Maintaining Humidity Levels For Healthier Indoor Air
Written by MR Plumbing
During the cold fall and winter months the air inside our homes becomes much drier. When the heat is turned on humidity levels can drop even further, leading to a host of potential health problems.
Health Problems From Low Humidity
During the winter, dry skin, itchy eyes and respiratory irritation are just a few of the side-effects caused by low humidity in the home. With dry mucous membranes your body becomes more susceptible to infections and you're more likely to catch a cold or the flu. Dry air can also increase the time that airborne virus droplets remain in the air, increasing the chance of spreading the flu virus.Problems Caused By Low Humidity
Wood furniture, floors and other woodwork are most susceptible to low humidity levels. If humidity levels fluctuate significantly wood can swell and shrink as moisture is absorbed and lost. Musical instruments, paintings and electronic equipment can also be harmed be overly dry conditions.Improve Air Quality With a Whole-Home Humidifier
The best solution to low humidity levels in the home is a whole-home humidifier. By working in conjunction with your home's HVAC system a humidifier will provide consistent, healthy humidity levels throughout your home. A humidity level of 40-60 percent during the winter months is best for most homes.Have questions about maintaining healthy humidity levels in your home? Call MR Plumbing, we can help with all your home heating and humidification needs.
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Thursday, 17 September 2020 15:52
Get Your Gas Furnace Ready For The Heating Season
Written by MR PlumbingPreparing Your Furnace For The Heating Season
If your home has a gas furnace, there are a few steps you should take to ensure that it operates safely and reliably. While performing professional heating system maintenance is important here is what you can do yourself.
How To Turn On Your Gas Furnace
Typically, a gas furnace is operated through the same thermostat as the air conditioner. This means that when the weather turns cold, you can simply turn your thermostat to the 'warm’ or 'heat’ setting and then adjust the temperature.Inspect and Change Your Furnace Filter
To check the filter, open the cover of the unit and then remove the filter. You can use a vacuum cleaner to remove the surface dust from a plastic filter, then simply wash it and dry it before replacing it. Always operate the furnace with a filter in place. You will need to replace a cardboard filter every few months, or as recommended by the filter manufacturer.How To Test Your Heating System's Airflow
Check each room in your home by feeling for the airflow that comes from the furnace blower. If airflow is insufficient to parts of your home, you may want to have a professional check your ductwork to ensure if it is sufficient for air delivery.If Your Gas Furnace Fails To Ignite
A inoperable pilot light is one of the main reasons that a gas furnace will fail to ignite. To ignite the pilot, turn the gas cock off and then push the pilot reset button while turning the cock to 'pilot’. Get a match and light it, then hold it near the furnace pilot to relight it.Furnace Troubleshooting Checklist
Cleaning the system every couple of years helps the unit to run more efficiently and last longer. During an annual heating system inspection your technician will lubricate the furnace ports and bearings, reducing the amount of energy the unit needs to operate. Your technician will also clean the furnace burners if they appear dirty.Removing Vent Blockages
Cleaning the vents and ducts will remove blockages that can interfere with heat flow in the home. In the winter, ice can block the outdoor vents. Make sure to turn off the unit before you attempt to remove the ice.How To Stop Air Leaks and Prevent Heat Loss
If you notice air leaks emanating from your system, use caulk to seal off any gaps. In addition, placing weather stripping around doors and windows will keep your home from losing heat, which makes your furnace run more often.What To Do If You Smell Gas
If you ever smell gas coming from the furnace, leave the area and call your gas company right away. Avoid lighting matches or using any electrical appliances until you are safely away from the area.
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Keep Your Heating and Cooling System Working Efficiently and Your Air Healthier
A common question we hear from our customers is, "How often should I change my furnace air filter?" The answer is usually once a month. Check with the filter packaging for details. There are a few other things to consider as well:
1. Buy filters in bulk and keep them next to the furnace.
Having filters always ready next to the furnace will reduce procrastination and the tendency to wait too long between filter changes. Also, buying filters in bulk is usually less expensive than buying them individually.
2. Use the correct size filter.
An poor-fitting filter lets dirt and debris escape around the filter, contaminate the air in your home and the parts inside the furnace, leading to reduced efficiency of the unit which can shorten the lifespan of the compressor and other components.
3. Install the filter in the right direction.
Most filters have arrows indicating the direction of air flow. Putting a filter in backwards can cause the filter to work less efficently and in some cases may cause the filter to bend, allowing dirty air around the filter.
4. Always turn of the power at the breaker rather than the thermostat when changing the filter.
This will ensure that if you come in contact with any wiring inside or near the filter you won't get shocked.
5. Furnace filters are not designed as air cleaners.
While most furnace filters will keep a lot of dirt and debris out of the air, they are not going to keep the air free of smaller contaminates and allergens. If your home has excessive dust, pet dander, smoke or other pollutants, consider using a separate, high quality home air filtration system. A HEPA rated filter is designed to capture the smallest particles that can easily pass through most common furnace air filters.
Have questions about your furnace filter, indoor air quality or your home's heating and cooling system? Call MR Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning & Electric. We are here to help answer your questions.
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If you have an older furnace you’ve likely experienced a range of noises over time, especially as the furnace nears the end of it's lifespan. However, most newer gas furnaces are designed to run very quietly.
Here are some of the sounds you may hear from your heating system and what they could indicate:
Screeching Noises
If you hear a screeching noise coming from your furnace, it could be a problem with the motor, such as a worn bearing.
Pinging and Popping
Pinging or popping sounds often happen when the air ducts expand and contract and are usually nothing to worry about.
Vibrating or Whining noises
This can indicate a serious problem with the furnace, such as a loose motor mount, that you should have a technician check as soon as possible.
Crackling Sounds
When the furnace shuts down the hot metal parts will often make a crackling sound as they cool down.
Booming sounds
Loud booming sounds may come from air ducts as they expand and contract in very cold weather, especially when a basement is unheated. It can also indicate the furnace has dirty burners that should be serviced by a heating technician.
If these sounds are accompanied by a blower that is turning on and off more frequently or is blowing cool air, it may be time to call MR Plumbing to inspect the unit.
Here are some of the sounds you may hear from your heating system and what they could indicate:
Screeching Noises
If you hear a screeching noise coming from your furnace, it could be a problem with the motor, such as a worn bearing.
Pinging and Popping
Pinging or popping sounds often happen when the air ducts expand and contract and are usually nothing to worry about.
Vibrating or Whining noises
This can indicate a serious problem with the furnace, such as a loose motor mount, that you should have a technician check as soon as possible.
Crackling Sounds
When the furnace shuts down the hot metal parts will often make a crackling sound as they cool down.
Booming sounds
Loud booming sounds may come from air ducts as they expand and contract in very cold weather, especially when a basement is unheated. It can also indicate the furnace has dirty burners that should be serviced by a heating technician.
If these sounds are accompanied by a blower that is turning on and off more frequently or is blowing cool air, it may be time to call MR Plumbing to inspect the unit.
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