Winter brings the need for reliable home heating to stay comfortable. A malfunctioning furnace can disrupt your comfort, lead to higher energy bills, and even pose safety hazards.
With every home being unique, we’ll also offer tips on how to prevent furnace problems and keep your home warm and comfortable throughout the season. Here are 5 signs that your furnace may need more than just some DYI love at home.
1. Your furnace is making strange noises.
If your furnace is making unusual sounds like banging, clanging, or screeching, it could indicate a problem. These noises might be caused by a loose part, a clogged filter, or an issue with the blower motor. There can be a wide variety of problems and solutions to these noises.
An easy first step you can do before you call a professional is to check your air filter to make sure nothing large is blocking the air filter. If the debris on the filter looks odd, call a professional like PMG Mechanical right away.
2. Your furnace is not heating your home evenly.
Uneven heating throughout your home could signify that your furnace isn’t functioning correctly. This could be due to a problem with the thermostat, the ductwork, or the furnace itself. With so many possible root causes as a result of cold spots in your home, reach out to a professional for troubleshooting your heating system.
3. Your furnace is using more energy than usual.
If you notice a spike in your energy bills and suspect your furnace is the culprit, it might be operating inefficiently. This could be attributed to a dirty filter, a faulty thermostat, or a problem with the furnace itself.
However, it might be a gradual increase in your heating bills. Check your annual usage to see if it’s been increasing over time. This may show system inefficiencies and an aging system.

4. Your furnace is not producing enough heat.
Is your home struggling to reach that perfect temperature? Or maybe your thermostat is set correctly, but your system just keeps running and running with no end in sight.
A furnace that struggles to produce sufficient heat is clearly not working as it should. This issue could stem from a dirty filter, a faulty thermostat, or a problem with the furnace itself.
5. Your furnace is more than 10 years old.
Furnaces older than 10 years are more prone to breakdowns and may not be as energy-efficient as newer models. It’s wise to have them inspected by a professional to ensure safe and efficient operation.

What to do if you notice any of these signs
If you observe any of these signs, it’s crucial to have your furnace inspected by a professional technician. They can accurately diagnose the problem and recommend the best solution.
How to prevent furnace problems
Here are some preventive measures to help avoid furnace troubles:
- Change your furnace filter regularly: A clean filter ensures efficient airflow and prevents strain on your system.
- Have your furnace tuned up annually: Regular maintenance can identify and address potential issues before they escalate.
- Keep the area around your furnace clear of debris: This allows for proper ventilation and prevents fire hazards.
- Make sure your thermostat is set correctly: Accurate thermostat settings ensure optimal comfort and energy efficiency.
By following these tips, you can help ensure your furnace runs smoothly throughout the winter. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact PMG Mechanical. We’re here to help!
If you’re experiencing any of the issues mentioned above, contact us today to schedule a furnace inspection. Our skilled technicians can diagnose the problem and recommend the best course of action.