Furnace service may not be something on your to-do list. After all, winter is still on the horizon. But scheduling an appointment with the local team here at Bloch Heating & Air Conditioning can help avoid certain problems—especially ones you only notice when you turn the system on for the first time this season. Below, we explain what to expect when you turn on the heat this fall. Ready for furnace maintenance? Call us in Cedarburg at 262-377-7072.

Signs You Should Schedule Furnace Service Sooner Rather Than Later

You Notice a Burning Smell

A slight burning or dusty smell the first time you turn on the furnace could be normal. Dust can collect on furnace components and inside ductwork while your heating system isn’t being used. When the furnace starts running again, that dust may burn off and create an odor. But it could also present a problem if it doesn’t go away. Your best bet? Call in our pros to clean those working parts, tune up the system, and ensure your safety.

Your Furnace Makes Odd Noises

Of course, your furnace won’t be completely silent when it starts up. You may hear the system click on, the blower running, and air moving through your ductwork. However, pay attention to sounds that are unusually loud or new. Banging, rattling, grinding, squealing, or persistent clicking can indicate a problem that should be checked. Scheduling furnace service with Bloch now can help identify the source of the noise. It may also prevent a small issue from becoming a bigger repair.

It Takes a While for Your Home to Warm Up

If your house is chilly when you first turn on the furnace, don’t expect it to become warm immediately. Your furnace needs time to raise the indoor temperature. This is especially true if the temperature outside has dropped significantly.

However, your home should gradually reach the temperature you’ve set on the thermostat. Watch for the furnace running for a long time without warming your home. Rooms that remain noticeably colder than others can also indicate a problem. There may be an issue with your heating system or airflow—an issue furnace maintenance or repair can solve.

Your Furnace Doesn’t Cycle On and Off

Once your home reaches the desired temperature, your furnace should shut off. It will start again when more heat is needed. A furnace that repeatedly turns on and off after only a few minutes may be short cycling.

Start by checking your air filter and thermostat settings. A dirty filter can restrict airflow and make your heating system work harder. If the problem continues, it’s a good idea to schedule maintenance.

Need Cedarburg Furnace Service? Call Bloch Heating & Air Conditioning

Some helpful advice? Turn on your furnace before the really cold weather arrives. This gives you a chance to make sure everything is working properly before you depend on it every day. However, if something doesn’t seem right, the Bloch team can help. For professional furnace service in the Cedarburg area, call us now at 262-377-7072 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.

FAQS

How Long Should My Heating System Last?

The answer depends on a few different factors. How often it breaks down, for example—or how well you keep it maintained. However, in general, you can expect a furnace or boiler to last about 15 to 20 years.

My System Stopped Working—Do I Have to Replace It?

Not necessarily. At Bloch Heating, we always look to repair a broken-down system first. Sometimes a simple fix is all a unit needs to run for several more years. But if a repair becomes too costly or unsafe to make, it may be in your best interest to replace the system altogether.

Can Maintenance Really Prolong My System’s Lifespan?

Yes! Scheduling maintenance once per year keeps all the working parts in your system cleaned and tuned. Your furnace or boiler will run much more smoothly, helping with wear and tear and energy efficiency. It’s a simple service but effective in helping your system reach that 20-year lifespan.

What Are Some Warning Signs That I Need a New System?

Signs include:

  • Old system age
  • Frequently needed repairs
  • Inconsistent (or non-existent) heating
  • Enormous energy bills
  • Strange noises—like banging or rattling
  • Odd odors

I Finally Need a New System—How Do I Know Which One to Pick?

Let the experts at Bloch Heating help you. Our process starts by measuring your home to determine what size system you’ll need. With that information, we’ll lay out all your options for a new system that meets your need and budget. We’ll do all the heavy lifting, both before and after installation, to find you the perfect unit—whether that’s a furnace, a heat pump, or both.