If you have a broken or inefficient furnace, rest assured, you haven’t done anything “wrong.” Sometimes, furnace repair is inevitable due to the harsh Iowa winters. There are many reasons why you may be encountering an issue with your furnace.

1. Uneven Heating: When your furnace isn’t working properly, it will unevenly heat your home. You may notice that some rooms or cool or cold while other rooms are warm or hot!
2. Increased Energy Bills: if you notice a sudden increase in your energy bill and you can’t figure out why, it may be because you need furnace repair.
3. Noises: a broken furnace will make a number of noises, including: banging, rattling, squealing, or popping. These sounds are not normal and could indicate that it’s time to repair or replace your furnace!
4. Short Cycling: If you notice your furnace turning off and on in frequent intervals, we call this “short cycling” and it’s a sign that you need furnace repair or replacement.
5. Weak Airflow: Reduced or non-existed airflow coming from your vents could indicate a problem with your furnace or even blockages. Call Dorrian to restore your airflow.
6. Thermostat Issues: If you noticed thermostat issues, such as inconsistent or inaccurate temperature readings, a thermostat that is unable to reach a desired temperature, or unresponsiveness, it may not be a thermostat issue at all but instead, it could indicate a broke furnace.
7. Yellow Light: If you have an older furnace with a “pilot light” and you notice that it’s yellow instead of the steady, healthy blue flame, you may require furnace repairs.
8. Smells: If there are suspicious smells emanating from your furnace, you should contact Dorrian to fix these immediately, as they may be signs of a gas leak. Smells could include: burning, rotten eggs, and/or musty odors.
9. Carbon Monoxide Alarm: Furnaces, while necessary, can also be dangerous when not functioning properly because they can let off carbon monoxide, a poisonous gas. If you notice your carbon monoxide alarm going off, it could be a sign that you need furnace repairs.
10. Age of Furnace: The typical furnace will last anywhere from 15-20 years with proper installation and maintenance. If your furnace is reaching it’s expiration date, you may notice that you need furnace repairs more frequently.

If you suspect furnace damage or inefficiencies, don’t wait until your furnace completely breaks down. Iowa winter storms and temperatures can become dangerous without proper heat. It’s better to get your furnace repaired right away than to leave it to chance and hope it doesn’t fail when you need it most.

When the temps reach the negatives, a working furnace becomes a necessity. Don’t be unprepared for frigid Iowa winters, call Dorrian to get your furnace repair, installation, or maintenance, today!