5 Signs Your Heating System is Failing

"Don't wait until winter to inspect your heating unit," said Puzio. "Heating units that are already on their way out will be more likely to fail once winter hits. Starting up a faulty unit during winter temperatures will put even more stress on the unit and expedite potential break-downs."

Southern Trust lists the following as important inspection points every homeowner needs to consider in preparation for winter: 

1. Heating Unit is Noisy – If the heating unit is noisier than it used to be, it could be a sign that something is wrong with the blower wheel or motor. Listen for noticeably metallic, scraping sounds and take immediate action. If the blower wheel falls out of balance or disconnects from the shaft, it could do serious damage to the blower housing. The motor can also break away from its mount, resulting in similar but even more serious damage to the overall housing. In either one of these cases, the system needs to be shut off immediately for inspection.
2. Heating Unit Runs Constantly – When the heating unit is running constantly beyond the expected increase in run time to combat winter weather, there may be an issue with its efficiency. Typically, this can be resolved by routine service and cleaning. Other key contributors to unnatural run time may be a low refrigerant charge, issues with the compressor and/or compressor valves, or even equipment and ductwork that is undersized for your home.
3. Uneven Temperature Throughout Home — If the home is heating unevenly, there may be an issue or blockage with the ductwork. This, as well as undersized equipment, can be fixed or replaced by a professional HVAC technician. Two important possibilities to consider that can be fixed by the homeowner are dirty filters and blocked registers. If a piece of furniture was accidentally placed over a register, the issue can be resolved by simply rearranging. 
4. Energy Bills Are Increasing — When energy bills begin to climb, efficiency is called to question. If the unit has been running more than usual but was ruled to be due to the change in weather, the next thing to consider will be the amount of the bill. If the heating unit is old, it may be time to replace it with a newer, more energy efficient HVAC.
5. Repairs Are Becoming More Frequent — Simply put, if the cost of repairs and maintenance are adding up year after year, it may finally be time for a full-unit replacement. Sometimes the best economic decision is to start over with a brand new, more energy efficient unit installed by a professional HVAC technician.

Southern Trust Home Services provides professional consultations, repairs, inspection and cleaning services, and installations that can help residents of southern Virginia be prepared for winter. For more information, please call 540-343-4348 or visit www.southerntrusthomeservices.com.

About Southern Trust Home Services
Founded in 1995 as Southern State Electric, Southern Trust Home Services provides residential plumbing, electrical and HVAC services, including 24/7 emergency repairs, to homeowners in more than 60 cities throughout southern Virginia. Roanoke's first to offer a lifetime guarantee on all recommended repairs, Southern Trust Home Services staffs dedicated, certified, licensed and insured, drug and criminal background checked technicians who provide timely, same-day services for a variety of home repairs, installations and maintenance. A Better Business Bureau accredited company since 2006, Southern Trust Home Services has financing available including 0 percent for 18 months, and Lifetime Repair Guarantee on stated repairs. To find out more, call 540-343-4348 or visit www.southerntrusthomeservices.com.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Heather Ripley
Ripley PR
865-977-1973
[email protected]

SOURCE Southern Trust Home Services

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