Dalton Plumbing, Heating, Cooling, Electric and Fireplaces, Inc. Blog: Archive for the ‘Heating’ Category

Watch for These Furnace Problems This Winter

Monday, October 29th, 2018
Smoke rising from a chimney on a snowy roof, indicating an active heating system after furnace replacement service.

The more you rely on your furnace this winter, the more stress it is going to undergo. That’s just a fact. But this does increase the odds of problems cropping up over time, especially if you skipped maintenance this year! Maintenance allows our technicians to fully inspect, clean, and adjust your heating system to make sure it performs as efficiently and safely as possible throughout the winter and the years to come.

What warning signs mean it’s time to consider a furnace replacement service?

You should consider furnace replacement service if your system short-cycles frequently, delivers weak heat even after maintenance, makes loud banging or clanging noises, or has repeated ignition issues. These signs indicate your furnace may no longer be reliable or cost-effective to repair.

Maintenance is also our chance to spot repair needs, and alert you to these needs so you can get them on your schedule sooner rather than later. Naturally, if you skip this annual furnace service in Hudson, IA, you can find yourself with a broken down system or increased wear and tear you weren’t expecting. So, what if you’ve already started using your heater, despite skipping maintenance? For guidance on dealing with a malfunctioning electric furnace, it’s essential to understand the early signs and know when to take action.

Well for one, it’s not too late to schedule it now, so give us a call! In the meantime, read on for some signs to look out for that indicates you may have a problem.

When to Replace Your Furnace Due to Winter Issues

  • If your furnace short‑cycles (turns on and off rapidly), it may be oversized or too worn to function efficiently.
  • When heating output drops significantly even after filter changes and burner cleanings.
  • If you hear loud or unusual noises like banging, scraping, or clanging, which often signal major internal issues.
  • When ignition or burner failures become frequent, especially in older gas furnaces.
  • If heating remains unreliable or unsafe across multiple winters despite repeated repairs.

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As the Weather Warms, Don’t Neglect Your Heater!

Monday, April 16th, 2018

Young woman shivering during the winter seasonSpring is officially upon us, and even though recent weeks have shown us the last of winter temperatures, soon enough the weather will warm. When that happens, you want to make sure that your air conditioner is well prepared by scheduling maintenance and any repairs you might need, too. However, that doesn’t mean you should forget about your heating system just yet!

In fact, if you have any needs for furnace repair in Waverly, IA, it should be at the top of your mind. After all, neglecting your heater when it needs work done can be detrimental to the system, leaving you in a lurch next fall. Additionally, there are safety concerns when talking about a gas-powered heating system.

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Take Care of Your Heating Repair Needs Before the Weather Warms

Monday, March 5th, 2018

A man uses a flashlight to help him see the hot water heater in a dark closetIt may still officially be the season for snow, but spring will be here soon enough and we all know how quickly the temperatures can increase once that happens. Once things start warming up, you’ll be using your heater less and less. Therefore, if you have any Waterloo, IA heating repair needs you’ll probably be tempted to put them off until next year if they don’t seem that severe.

Unfortunately, one of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is neglecting their end-of-season heater needs. Ignoring your heater when work needs to be done can be harmful to the system itself, for one. Also, if you have a gas-powered heater then ignoring it can be a safety hazard.

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Late Season Heating Repair Signs You Should Not Neglect

Monday, March 20th, 2017
Woman relaxing on a red couch near a wall-mounted radiator heater in a bright room.

Although it’s warmed up considerably since last week, we are still experiencing considerably cold temperatures compared to other parts of the country—like the West Coast! As such, you’re likely still using your heating system on a fairly consistent basis.

And if an Evansdale, IA heating repair need crops up, no need to worry right? After all, spring is officially here this week and soon enough we’ll be turning off our heaters for the season. Unfortunately though, neglecting repair needs can be detrimental to your heating system—no matter how late in the heating season it may be. In fact, some issues may be warning signs that your current system is on its last legs, making now a good time to evaluate which home heating system is right for you before next winter rolls in.

What warning signs indicate you should consider a heater replacement?

You may need a heater replacement if your system makes loud banging or groaning noises, delivers weak or uneven heat, causes high energy bills, shows a yellow pilot light, struggles to turn on, or runs constantly. These late-season issues often signal that repairs are no longer enough.

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Problems that Warrant Boiler Repair

Monday, January 9th, 2017

Boilers have been providing heat to homes throughout the country for many, many years. There are a number of reasons why the boiler is still one of the most trusted heating systems there is on the market today. They provide you with even and effective warmth without the air quality issues you may encounter with furnaces.

Since boilers have much fewer moving parts than other heating systems, they don’t age as fast as other types of heating systems either, and typically last for many years with only a few repair needs. However, no heating system is completely invulnerable, and you may run into a problem at some point that warrants boiler repairs, such as the following.

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As Winter Progresses, Watch for These Signs of Heater Trouble

Monday, January 2nd, 2017

As our temperatures approach below-freezing levels, our furnaces—or other heating systems—are working particularly hard to meet the heating demands of your home. Hopefully, you had your heating system professionally maintained before winter began, as such service will ensure that your system runs as efficiently and effectively as it can this season.

If you do start to notice any minor issues with your heater, regardless of whether you had maintenance done or not, it’s vital that you not ignore the signs. Contact our professionals and the first indication of trouble so that we can ensure you’re all set for the remaining chilly weather. Keep reading to learn more about the signs of heater trouble within your home.

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This Winter, Watch Out for These Common Boiler Problems

Monday, November 7th, 2016

Boilers have been a leading choice in home heating systems for a number of decades. This is because they are highly reliable and efficient so long as they are well maintained. They provide efficient and even heating throughout homes without air quality concerns that you may see with a furnace.

Additionally, since a boiler has few moving parts, it doesn’t age as quickly as other types of heating systems might. As a result, they usually last for many years with only a few repair needs throughout that time. However, it’s imperative that you keep in mind—just like any other heater, boilers are not invulnerable. You may encounter a boiler problem at some time or another. But what could these problems be?

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Help! My Furnace Won’t Start Up

Monday, October 24th, 2016

Temperatures have begun to decline, signaling that the start of winter is a lot closer than it seems. Soon enough, you’ll be turning on your heater to keep your home comfortable, if you haven’t already. Hopefully if you have, you didn’t have any problems.

But what happens if you go to turn your furnace on and it doesn’t start up? What could be the cause of this trouble? Read on to learn why furnaces may fail to turn on. And if your unit is aging or repeatedly giving you trouble, it might be time to explore which home heating system is right for you and whether a newer, more efficient model could be a better long-term investment.

Furnace replacement involves removing your existing furnace or old unit and installing a new furnace that is properly sized for your home’s square footage and heating capacity needs. This process includes disconnecting vents, electrical wiring, gas lines, air ducts, and ductwork to safely remove the old furnace. Handling heavy objects, such as the furnace unit and other large components, requires proper safety measures and often two technicians. The use of power tools is essential during installation for both efficiency and safety. Preparing the installation area by checking for obstructions and ensuring readiness is a key step before starting the project. After removal, the furnace installer will inspect and reconnect air ducts to ensure optimal airflow and system performance. Choosing a high-efficiency furnace model can help lower your heating bills and provide long term savings. Upgrading to a new system can also improve your furnace’s efficiency, resulting in additional cost savings over time. When replacing your furnace, it’s important to consult a professional furnace installer, who has special training required for the job and is responsible for inspecting ductwork, ensuring proper sizing, and performing the installation steps. The cost of furnace replacement can vary depending on the type of system, such as a gas furnace, installation complexity, and efficiency features, so be sure to consider other factors such as your home’s requirements and overall value when deciding to replace your furnace. Furnace installation is a comprehensive project that requires careful planning and coordination to ensure a well-done job and long-term satisfaction.

What should you check if your furnace won’t start, and when should you consider furnace installation?

If your furnace won’t start, check that the thermostat is set to heat, the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped, and the furnace switch is on. Also inspect the air filter for clogs. If problems persist, it may indicate an aging system or repeated failures, signs that furnace installation could be the best solution.

Introduction to Furnace Installation

Furnace installation is a critical step in ensuring your home’s heating system operates safely and efficiently. The furnace installation process involves much more than simply placing a new unit in your home, it requires specialized training, technical knowledge, and the right tools to guarantee proper installation. An experienced HVAC technician understands the complexities of connecting ductwork, electrical wiring, and fuel lines, as well as calibrating the system for optimal performance. Because the installation process is complicated and involves many technical details, attempting it without the right expertise can lead to costly mistakes and safety hazards. If you’re unsure which ignition system your home needs, learn about pilot lights vs. electric ignition to make an informed decision. By recognizing the importance of professional installation, homeowners can make informed decisions that protect their investment and ensure reliable heating for years to come.

Types of Furnaces

When selecting a new furnace, it’s important to understand the different types available and how they fit your home’s needs. Gas furnaces are among the most popular choices for residential HVAC systems, known for their strong heating capacity and ability to deliver heated air efficiently throughout your home. They typically offer high energy efficiency and lower operating costs, especially in areas with access to natural gas. Electric furnaces, while often less expensive in terms of initial cost, may result in higher heating bills due to electricity rates, but they can be a good option for homes without gas supply. If you’re considering one, read our electric furnace guide to better understand how they operate and what issues to watch for. Oil furnaces are another alternative, though they are less common and may require more maintenance. The right furnace for your home will depend on factors such as your desired energy efficiency, the size of your space, and your budget for both upfront and ongoing costs. Consulting with an HVAC professional can help you choose a system that matches your heating requirements and maximizes efficiency.

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How Can You Make Your Home More Energy Efficient This Winter?

Monday, October 17th, 2016

When you think about the efficiency of your home, you likely think about how effectively and efficiently certain appliances work in your home, such as your HVAC systems. Maybe you even think about your indoor air quality—how having a humidifier or dehumidifier in your home can help your climate control system work as it should with less effort.

What if there were one simple, but very effective, way you could make your home more energy efficient though, in addition to ensuring the professional installation of highly-efficient systems? What if the secret was your front door? Keep reading to discover what we mean.

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Does Your Furnace Smell Strange upon Start Up?

Monday, September 26th, 2016

Temperatures have finally begun to cool, and while we still aren’t using our furnaces on a daily basis, you may have turned yours on one night this past weekend to get a little bit of chill out of the air indoors. If so, hopefully you didn’t notice anything out of the ordinary. However if you did detect an odd smell coming from your furnace, it’s not something to be ignored.

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