If your furnace seems to be producing heat inconsistently around your Avon home to you, you’re not alone. Many homes have varied conditions from room to room, causing spotty heating or cooling.

On cold days, this can be a nuisance. You may be confined to only a few rooms in your home, or you might have to wear a coat and blanket just to function around the house.

Our team at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical wants you to be comfortable at home—you deserve to be! There are several reasons why your furnace may not be providing adequate warmth. Common issues include a malfunctioning thermostat, clogged air filters, or even more serious problems like a broken blower motor or a faulty igniter.

Understanding the potential causes of your furnace's heating issues is the first step in getting your system back on track.

Why Isn’t My Furnace Heating?

Here are some of the most common reasons why furnaces stop heating effectively and guidance on what you can do to restore warmth to your home. Whether it’s a simple fix or a sign that you need professional help, being informed will help you make the right decisions for your heating system and ensure your home stays comfortable.

1.  Poor insulation

     If your ducts, windows, attic, or walls have poor or nonexistent insulation, you might have a problem. Heat is escaping, which can cause inconsistent heating. However, you can fix this relatively quickly.

     Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) professional can perform a thermal analysis in order to figure out which areas need insulation. A professional can install insulation within hours, and compared to other home improvements, it is relatively affordable.

2.  Duct problems

     Leaky or blocked ducts can lead to patchy heating. The insides of your ducts can have blockages, especially if they haven’t been cleaned recently. Leaks in your ducts are another enemy of even heating. If you think you might have leaky or blocked ducts, have a trained technician perform a thermal analysis and duct cleaning or repair.

     Also, take a walk around inside your home to see if any registers or intake vents are being blocked by furniture or carpeting.

3.  Thermostat problems

     Try changing your thermostat settings. If your furnace is set to Auto, change it to the On setting. This will cause it to run consistently instead of incrementally, which may lead to more even heating.

     Your thermostat might also have heat sensor issues or faulty wiring, which causes it to produce the wrong temperature reading. A professional can diagnose this issue.

4.  Improperly sized furnace

     When a furnace is sized incorrectly for your Indiana home, it will usually produce poor heating. Undersized units lack the capacity to ventilate your entire living area.

     Similarly, larger units short-cycle, leading to inadequate heating. One of our experts can perform heat load calculations to determine whether your system is the correct size.

5.  Lack of maintenance

     When you don’t schedule routine maintenance visits, your system can lose its finesse. Dirty coils, worn/unsecured belts, and clogged filters are common mishaps. Due to these issues, you’ll have a weakened heating system.

     Routine maintenance saves you money. You can reduce your energy costs by up to 30 percent with seasonal tune-ups and professional maintenance. Regular HVAC maintenance can also reduce costly breakdowns by as much as 95 percent.

6.  Wrong-sized filter

     Good airflow is key to dispersing hot air throughout your Avon home. If your filter is too thick for your furnace, it creates excessive resistance, leading to compromised airflow. You can have your technician perform a static resistance test to see if it’s the right size.

7.  HVAC zoning

     Some homes have varied heating needs for different rooms. Fortunately, with a zone control system, you can adjust the temperature settings in multiple areas. If you live in a home with multiple stories, large windows, or a furnished basement, zone controls may be the best solution.

Call Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical for All Your Heating Needs

A furnace that isn’t heating properly can be more than just an inconvenience—it can impact your comfort and safety, especially during colder months. By understanding the common causes, such as thermostat malfunctions, dirty filters, or more complex mechanical issues, you can take steps to diagnose the problem.

While some issues may be resolved with a quick DIY fix, others might require the expertise of a professional HVAC technician. Ignoring these problems can lead to bigger, more expensive repairs down the line.

Our professionals at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical provide furnace installations, repairs, and maintenance to our neighbors in Avon, IN, and surrounding regions. Call us today at 317-471-8700 or request service online for any additional questions or to schedule service.

If your furnace is still struggling to heat your home, don’t hesitate to reach out. Ensuring your furnace is in top working condition will help maintain a warm and cozy environment throughout the winter season.

On a frosty winter’s day here in Indiana, your gas furnace is hard at work, keeping your Indianapolis home warm and cozy. Feeling grateful? You’re not alone—it’s one of the most popular forms of heating, as American as apple pie.

In 1919, New Jersey inventor Alice H. Parker filed a patent for the first gas-fueled furnace. Years later, the basic technology is the same—only it burns less gas. In fact, modern furnaces burn at up to 97 percent efficiency, according to Consumer Reports. Keep this in mind if you’ve owned your heater for 10 years or longer.

Our team at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical could help you save big bucks on your monthly utility bill by performing a furnace replacement. And while we’re on the topic, we can help with your other HVAC needs: air conditioning, heat pumps, indoor air quality (IAQ), and more. All you need to do is call.

How a Gas Furnace Works

Furnaces that burn natural gas have four basic elements:

1. The Thermostat

Your thermostat is the eyes and ears of the operation. If it senses your home is below the target temperature, it sends signals to your furnace. Then, your furnace continues to cycle until your home is adequately warm. Finally, when it detects the desired temperature, the thermostat tells your furnace to stop running (until further notice).

2. The Ignitor

When your thermostat sends out a signal, the ignitor is the first to respond. Like the ignition starts your car—the ignitor starts your furnace.

If your heater is a decade old (or older), the ignitor might be a pilot light. The pilot stays lit 24/7, running on a small stream of natural gas. Newer furnaces have an electric ignitor, a considerably safer option. Electric ignitors are less risky because if your pilot goes out, you will quickly have a house full of gas fumes.

3. The Combustion Chamber

Next on the chain is the combustion chamber. This is where the ignitor lights the fuel. The natural gas becomes intertwined with oxygen supplied via a vent system or draft hood. The oxygen ensures that the fuel burns both cleanly and efficiently.

Besides taking in oxygen, the ventilation system pushes out exhaust through your flue. Economy flues are usually made out of galvanized steel. However, homeowners with polypropylene venting see long-term savings due to higher efficiency. The latter is also quite easy to install.

Whatever your flue is made out of—stay on top of maintenance. A clean flue ensures healthy air and prevents gas from getting squandered.

The Heat Exchanger

The combustion chamber emits heat, which gets collected by the heat exchanger. From there, the heat exchanger collects and distributes the treated air to your ductwork using burner-heated metal tubes.

When the tubes reach the right temperature, the furnace motor kicks on and begins blowing the air throughout your Indianapolis home with the help of fans.

High-efficiency furnaces have variable-speed blowers, which use less energy and allow tighter temperature control. These premium models may also have multiple heat exchangers, which helps your furnace use less fuel.

Remember to schedule seasonal maintenance—a cracked heat exchanger can lead to a dangerous carbon monoxide (CO) leak.

Need Service? We Have You Covered.

Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical is pleased to offer second-to-none heating and cooling services. Our certified HVAC specialists can perform repairs, maintenance, and installations. For prompt assistance, call our Indianapolis, Indiana, office at 317-471-8700 or request service online.

If your furnace is producing a strange smell, you should always treat it with caution. While the cause for the odor may be benign, it could just as easily be harmful to inhale. When in doubt, always open windows to ensure ventilation, and evacuate your Avon home.

For your convenience and protection, our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical team developed a list of five common furnace smells and what they mean.

1. Burnt Plastic

     If you just turned on your furnace for the winter, your nostrils may detect a burning smell. If this is the case, you don’t need to panic yet. Furnaces collect dust over time, which is burnt off when you first turn on your furnace.

     It might be a good idea to check your filter to see if it needs replacing. However, if the smell doesn’t dissipate after about 30 minutes, contact one of our heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) professionals to check it out.

2. Diesel or Oil

     The smell of diesel or oil could point to many things. Look to be sure you don’t see any smoke or flames coming from the unit. If you do, shut down your furnace immediately and call our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical professionals immediately for guidance on what to do next.

     If you don’t spot an obvious issue, the problem could be one of a number of issues—from a plugged nozzle to a clogged chimney to even a cracked heat exchanger. Some are simple fixes while others are more serious. If the smell doesn’t dissipate in a couple hours, call us to discuss your options.

3. Musty and/or Mildewy

     This smell is usually indicative of dirty air ducts. Over time, your ductwork becomes overrun with dust, debris, mildew, and mold. Your home’s ventilation carries this smell throughout the house.

     Not only is this smell unpleasant; it’s bad for your indoor air quality (IAQ). Indoor air quality can be decreased by several contributing factors. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), most Indiana homes have more than one source that contributes to indoor air pollution. To solve the smell issue, have your ducts cleaned by a professional.

4. Metallic and/or Electric

     This is likely the smell of your motor overheating. In this case, it’s a good decision to power down your furnace immediately. Then, schedule a repair with one of our professional  technicians.

5. Formaldehyde

     If you can smell a pungent chemical smell similar to formaldehyde, this presumably means you have a cracked heat exchanger. You should evacuate immediately and call 911. Cracked heat exchangers are known to release carbon monoxide (CO) fumes that are potentially lethal when inhaled.

Contact Us for All Your Furnace Needs

Our team at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical hopes you found this list of common furnace smells useful. Remember, always treat chemical smells with the utmost wariness. Call us at 317-471-8700 or request service online here in Avon, IN or any of its surrounding areas with any additional questions or to schedule service.

So, you’re thinking about upgrading your Indiana heating and cooling system. Have you ever heard of dual fuel? 

Dual fuel systems pair a heat pump with a furnace or boiler. That way, your home will always be at the perfect temperature without sacrificing efficiency. It’s a way to combine the best of both worlds to keep your home comfortable year-round. 

Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical is happy to lay all the options on the table so you can make the best decision for your Avon home. Here’s what you should know about dual fuel systems: 

They Help You Save Money

Dual fuel systems take the burden off your furnace or boiler. Heat pumps can both heat and cool your home. During warm weather, they work like air conditioners, extracting heat and humidity from the air. When it begins to cool down, they reverse the process, concentrating and redistributing heat to warm your home. 

Heat pumps are up to 50 percent more efficient than a furnace or baseboard heater, according to the US Department of Energy (DOE). But they have their limitations when it comes to super cold weather.

Air-source heat pumps struggle in temperatures 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below. When the temperature dips below freezing, your dual fuel system switches over to the furnace. On those milder temperature days in fall and early spring, you’ll be able to heat your home more efficiently using the heat pump instead of the furnace. 

Advantages of a Dual Fuel System

Here are some of the best parts about switching to a dual fuel system:

They are much more efficient. Because your furnace or boiler only gets used when you absolutely need it, you’ll be using burning much less gas. Your furnace will also last way longer since it won’t be overworked. 

You’ll save money in the long run. Every cold day your heat pump is running in place of your gas heater, you’ll pocket the difference. Plus, some high-efficiency heat pump systems are eligible for tax credits. Be sure to check for these discounts when you’re searching for a model.

You’ll enjoy a quick payback period. You spend more upfront getting this system in place—but the return on investment is worth it.

Schedule your consultation today!

Want to know what a dual fuel system would look like in your Avon, IN, home? Call Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical at 317-471-8700 today for a consultation and upfront estimate, or request service online.

This winter, you’re hoping to have a brand new furnace to keep you warm. But there are so many furnaces to choose from. You’re left wondering, which is the right one for your Carmel home?

Furnaces are available in many shapes, sizes, and price points. The best choice will come down to your home’s size and heating needs. To find the perfect fit, schedule a preliminary visit with one of our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical specialists. They can audit your Indiana home to determine the size of furnace you need. From there, you can narrow it down until you’ve found the perfect heating unit for your home requirements and budget.

Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) technology has become much more efficient in the past decade. You’ll be pleased to know that today’s gas furnaces burn at an efficiency rating as high as 97 percent, according to Consumer Reports. That means you could be paying considerably less on your monthly utility bill when you make the switch.

Furnaces by Speed Settings

Furnaces can be categorized by how they operate. Some furnaces have a simpler setup, running at one speed. Others offer two or more speed settings, which can help you achieve a more consistent indoor temperature.

Single-stage furnaces have just two settings: “On” and “Off.” Once it’s on, the blowers run at one speed, until your thermostat detects the desired temperature and ends the cycle.

Single-stage heaters have the most affordable upfront cost. They are also the easiest to install. However, they use more energy than more advanced models. That’s because they have to power on and off so frequently.

Additionally, single-stages don’t always heat as evenly. Homeowners may experience a difference of 4 to 6 degrees Fahrenheit between rooms.

Two-stage furnaces have two settings: full-speed and half-speed. This allows your furnace to heat your home more evenly, producing a more uniform temperature. In addition to producing better heating, the half-speed setting is much quieter.

Variable-speed furnaces are much more nimble, dynamically adjusting their speed to create the perfect amount of heat. They are incredibly accurate—every room in your home will be within half a degree of your thermostat setting.

Besides making your home so comfortable, they’ll help you save on your monthly finances. They are incredibly efficient since they use the minimum amount of power required to heat your home. Though they cost more upfront, it pays off in long-term savings.

When it comes to indoor air quality (IAQ), variable speed furnaces are the platinum option. That’s because they provide round-the-clock ventilation and filtration, catching harmful particles and eliminating moisture that causes mold growth.

Furnaces by Fuel Type

You can also think about furnaces in terms of their fuel type. Most modern furnaces run on natural gas. However, other options are available in areas without gas lines.

Gas furnaces run on fuel delivered to your home via a natural gas line. The furnace’s burner ignites the gas, which warms the air in the heat exchanger. From there, the warm air gets distributed through your ductwork. One benefit to natural gas is that its price point remains relatively stable. Additionally, you don’t need to worry about storage.

Oil furnaces are common alternatives in parts of the United States where natural gas lines don’t reach. Oil furnaces run on tanks of oil, which the owner needs to purchase and replace. Oil furnaces are less expensive upfront than gas furnaces and last twice as long on average. However, they are less efficient. Additionally, oil prices shift rapidly, making it harder to gauge your month-to-month expenses. Plus, you will need somewhere to store the oil tank.

Electric Furnaces are yet another alternative to natural gas heaters. Instead of heating through combustion, they use electric heating elements that warm the air. Unlike their oil-powered counterparts, they don’t require the owner to refuel them. On the downside, they are less efficient than gas furnaces. And when the cost of electricity goes up, so does your heating bill.

Call Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical for Expert Heating and Cooling Service Today

Looking for fast and reliable HVAC service in Carmel, IN? Let a Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical specialist take care of it. Reach us at 317-471-8700 or request service online.

Just about any electrical appliance has the potential to overheat. Furnaces are no exception. As a homeowner, you need to take precautions to lower the risk of an overheated unit. You should also be wary of the associated symptoms, so you know when to take action. Remember, if your system gets too hot, you should keep a cool head and get your furnace taken care of right away.

We want to keep our customers in the know about overheating furnaces. Our team here at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical in Avon compiled the following information for you.

How Do I Prevent My Furnace From Overheating?

The main way to keep your furnace from overheating is ensuring correct airflow. Hindered airflow causes the system’s components to work abnormally hard, causing them to overheat. 

Here’s how to keep your appliance in check:

• Get a correctly sized filter.

Not every filter is created equal. Some filters create a resistance your system isn’t designed to handle. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s recommendations on correct filters, and consult a heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) expert if you’re still not sure.

• Change/clean your filter routinely.

If you let the dust settle for too long, your filter can become clogged. This clog significantly compromises airflow, which causes the machine’s parts to overwork and eventually fail. Check the manufacturer’s manual to see how frequently you need to change your filter. We, as well as ENERGY STAR®, typically recommend at least every three months.

• Be sure your vents/ducts aren’t blocked.

Blockages in your vents are hard on your furnace, causing the equipment to run for too long. Be sure to clear away any obstructions near and/or on them, including carpets, furniture, and curtains. Additionally, keep your ducts clean and free of any leaks or constrictions.

• Have a technician perform routine maintenance.

Regular maintenance, annually or semiannually, is a necessary step in protecting the condition of your system. One of our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical technicians will clean any dirty coils, fasten loose components, and be sure the system is performing optimally. This will significantly lower the risk of a malfunction.

How Do I Know My Furnace Is Overheating?

When your furnace overheats, it loses some or all of its functionality. Therefore, it probably won’t go unnoticed. Here are some giveaway signs:

• Your furnace shuts down before completing a cycle.

This is the most common sign of overheating. It actually shuts down to protect you. When your heat exchanger gets to an unsafe temperature, the high-limit switch detects this and automatically turns the furnace off.

• You smell a burning odor.

If you’ve just turned on your Indiana furnace for the first time in a while, you can expect a slight burning smell for about 20 to 30 minutes. However, a constant burning smell is a serious cause for concern. Call one of our professional technicians immediately.

• You notice an unusual humming sound.

A loud humming noise likely means your motor is overworked and about to give out. In this case, you should immediately turn your furnace off (if it doesn’t turn off on its own first). Then call one of our experts immediately. 

Call Us if Your Furnace Overheats

If your furnace overheats, it’s in your best interest to have it repaired right away. Delaying could end up costing you more in the future with pricy parts or whole-system replacements. If you suspect your furnace has overheated, call our professionals at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical or request service online today. We’re proud to provide efficient and long-lasting repairs to our neighbors in Avon, IN and surrounding regions.

Let’s face it—there’s never a good time for the heat to go out in your Indiana home. You certainly don’t want to wait until your heating system stops working for you to realize you need a replacement!

Furnaces are not designed to last forever, so it’s helpful to know when you should be replacing it. But how exactly will you know when it’s time?

5 Signs You May Need a New Furnace

You may need to replace the furnace in your Carmel home if any of the signs below are applicable to you. If something rings true, reach out to our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical furnace experts today to discuss all of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) options.

1. You have an older furnace.

Even if you have properly maintained your furnace, it’s only designed to last so long. In fact, ENERGY STAR^® recommends replacing your furnace if it is greater than 15 years old. 

If your furnace is near the end of its life span, it’s typically best to replace it sooner rather than later. Otherwise you may end up paying more in repairs over time, and eventually you will still need to buy that new furnace anyway.

2. Repairs are becoming more frequent.

Your furnace should not need to be repaired more than once a year. Ideally, you should not have to repair it, as long you have regular professional maintenance performed as needed.

Unfortunately, repairs can become more common as your furnace ages. This could be increasingly expensive, so if a repair costs at least half the amount of a replacement, you may want to consider buying a new furnace instead.

Our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical furnace experts are happy to answer all of your questions on repairing and replacing your furnace. We want to help you make the best decision for your comfort and needs.

3. Your heating bills are increasing.

Have you noticed an increase in your utility bill? This could indicate you are due for a new furnace. 

While newer HVAC systems boast of energy efficiency, older systems are hardly comparable. Even if you don’t notice higher utility expenses, making the switch to a newer system could help you reduce your energy costs.

4. Dust is building up more often.

While dust particles can appear in your Indiana home no matter how much or often you clean, seeing more dust than usual could signify a problem. You may need to replace or clean yourair filter, but if it’s in good condition, then your furnace may not be removing excess in the air or functioning well.

5. Your home is not heating up properly.

It seems like an obvious sign, but if your furnace is not warming your Carmel home enough, it may be time for a new one. However, it could also be a sign of an air leak or issue with the thermostat. 

This is why you should reach out to one of our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical professionals. We have your best interest in mind and can quickly determine the issue with your furnace.

Ready for Your New Furnace? Contact Our HVAC Professionals

If you have noticed at least one or more of the above signs, it could be time for a new furnace. Our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical professionals would be happy to go over all of the HVAC options available to you in Carmel, IN. Upgrade to a new HVAC system by calling our heating and cooling experts at 317-471-8700 or request service online today.

If you notice a pool of water has formed around the furnace in your Indiana home, don’t be alarmed. In most cases, this is not a serious or expensive problem—it is a pretty common issue.

However, ignoring this problem could lead to other issues, such as water damage and mold. Reach out to our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical professionals so we can investigate it for you. We take great pride in offering practical solutions that add comfort and safety to your Avon home or business.

What Type of Furnace Do I Have?

It can be helpful to know what type of furnace you have in your Avon home. In general, you either have a standard, also called a conventional, furnace or you have a condensing furnace.

The biggest difference between the two types of furnaces is the number of heat exchangers each one has. The heat exchanger is the internal component where the furnace heats the air. A standard furnace has one heat exchanger and a condensing furnace has two. 

One way to know which type you have is to check your furnace’s exhaust pipe. If it’s a PVC (hard, white plastic) pipe, your furnace is condensing. If not, it’s most likely a standard furnace.

Another way to find out is by looking on the side of your furnace for the yellow ENERGY STAR^® label. This displays the annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating of the furnace. 

If the AFUE is 90 percent or more, it is likely a condensing furnace. These are the most energy efficient and the Department of Energy (DOE) states the AFUE rating can reach as high as 98.5 percent. High-efficiency furnaces are more prone to leaking because of their condensation buildup.

No matter what type of furnace you have in your home, our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical HVAC professionals can diagnose the reasons your furnace is leaking water and repair it in no time.

Why Is My Furnace Leaking Water?

Listed below are a few reasons your furnace could be leaking water. Some of these issues can be resolved with a repair, but a replacement could be necessary for others:

• Water Condensation

This is the most common reason for a leaking furnace. Condensing furnaces go through a heating process where moisture in the air condenses and travels through piping to a drain. If the piping is clogged, or the pump is broken, leaking can occur.

• Incorrectly Sized Exhaust Pipe

Another reason your furnace could be leaking water is because your exhaust pipe is the wrong size, or it could be broken. When your exhaust pipe is the wrong size, gas may not be able to properly exit and can start getting cooler, resulting in a buildup of condensation.

• Humidifier Leak

If you have a humidifier attached to your furnace, then water could actually be seeping in from the humidifier instead, making it appear as though the furnace is leaking when it’s not.

• Drain Clog

If you have an air conditioning system connected to your furnace that shares a condensate drain, then it is possible the drain could be clogged.

• Defective Secondary Heat Exchanger

A defective secondary heat exchanger puts your safety at risk, as well as causes water to leak at the base of your furnace. A cracked heat exchanger allows for carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrous oxide to leak inside your home, resulting in possible sickness and even death. You will need a furnace replacement if your heat exchanger is damaged. 

Have Your Furnace Leak Fixed by a Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical Professional Today

You may be able to figure out why your furnace is leaking water, but if you are not certain or need help correcting the problem, then it’s time to reach out to the furnace experts at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical. We will diagnose the problem and repair that leak quickly. If you are in or near Avon, IN, contact our team at 317-471-8700 or request service online!

Your fuel-burning furnace has a number of mechanisms allowing it to run safely and effectively. These features prevent fires and protect your indoor air quality (IAQ). They also work to prevent internal errors from damaging large portions of your furnace.

From our team here at Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical in Avon, here are six ways your furnace is working to ensure your safety:

1. Air Filters

This component protects your furnace’s internal parts and your indoor air quality. Air filters catch dust and debris, which would otherwise be circulated by your air ducts. Not only does dust make you sneezy, it can actually hurt some of the mechanical parts in your system over time. 

Remember to change your filter before it gets clogged, or else you’ll end up with a variety of problems due to poor airflow. Check your manufacturer’s recommendations to see how frequently you need to change it, though we typically recommend every month or at least three.

2. Thermocouples

These are sensors protecting you from gas leaks. If your pilot light won’t turn on, the valve is leaking gas into your home. Thermocouples use thermal imagery to detect a flame source. When the thermocouple doesn’t sense your pilot light, it will automatically shut down your furnace to prevent the harmful fumes from circulating.

3. Pressure Switches

These switches detect changes in pressure that could indicate an error in your heating system. One such error is called backdrafting. Backdrafting is when exhaust is reintegrated into your furnace instead of exiting through the flue. This can be potentially deadly to breathe and is indicatory of other problems within the system.

4. Rollout Switches

Rollout is when the burner flames become too hot, or too high, leading to fire hazards. This is often a symptom of a cracked heat exchanger. Rollout switches sit near the burners and shut the furnace off if things get too hot. This prevents a fire, as well as carbon monoxide (CO) production due to combustion. According to Forbes magazine, 20,000 to 30,000 people per year in the United States are sickened by accidental carbon monoxide poisoning and approximately 500 people die. 

5. Limit Switches

Limit switches “limit” the overall temperature of your Indiana furnace to keep it from overheating. Your heating system will have a factory-designed switch to meet specifications for your particular make and model. Once the switch detects the temperature to be past a set peak (for example 200 degrees Fahrenheit), it will cut off the power to your system.

6. Flues

Your furnace flue is a pipe sending exhaust out of your home using a blower. Exhaust is deadly to breathe and may contain flammable gas. It’s important to be sure no obstructions exist within or near the pipe. Obstructions to the pipe restrict airflow and can cause backdrafting.

Call Our Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical Furnace Experts

At Godby Heating Plumbing Electrical, promoting home safety in Avon, IN, is a priority! For more questions about your furnace, or to schedule service, you can reach us today at 317-471-8700 or request service online.

A furnace is a major investment for any Carmel homeowner. Although it’s not something that will need to be done frequently, most people will face the decision of needing to purchase a new heating system sometime during home ownership.

Our team at Godby Heating, Plumbing, Electrical wants you to understand how your furnace works and what signs you can watch for to indicate it’s time for a replacement heating system.

Time Has Passed

Perhaps one of the biggest factors in deciding it’s time to replace your furnace is its age. The average life span of a furnace is 15 to 20 years, but this can vary greatly depending on how well you have maintained your system. However, if your furnace is more than a decade old, it may be time to start planning for a furnace replacement.

Repairs Increase in Number, Cost, and Frequency

Another sign that it may be time to swap out your furnace for a new model is its repair record. As your furnace ages, you’ll find yourself calling in your Indiana heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) professionals more frequently. In addition, you’ll probably see the costs of service calls start increasing as well.

If your repair costs begin to reach half the cost of a new furnace within a year or so, it may be worth it to invest in a new heating system.

Utility Usage Rises

Keep an eye on your regular utility bills. If the unit cost of energy doesn’t rise but your monthly bills do, that may be another sign it’s time to replace your furnace. Older equipment tends to work less efficiently over time, which means it will require more energy to produce the same amount of heat.

One advantage of switching to a new furnace is that new models are always more energy efficient than older ones. As a result, you’ll automatically start recouping some of your investment in lower monthly utility bills.

For example, Money Magazine cites one possible example. If your annual heating costs are $2,000 and you increase your annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating by 15 percent in a new furnace, you will save $300 each year. Naturally these numbers depend on your fuel and energy sources.

Excessive Humidity, Dust, or Dirt

Although many factors can play a role in indoor air quality, your furnace can definitely make a difference. If routine maintenance like changing your air filters and regular tune-ups do not solve humidity, dust, or other air quality issues, it may be a sign you need to replace your furnace.

Strange Noises or Odors

Be sure to be attentive to the daily behavior of your furnace. Often, buzzing, vibrations, clanking, or other noises may warrant a service call. If your professional technician finds your furnace has excessive wear or structural damage, it’s a wise decision to invest in a new furnace.

Change in Comfort Level

When you run your furnace, if your home doesn’t feel as comfortable as it has in the past, you may want to explore the causes. Older furnaces that are working inefficiently can cause different rooms in your home to vary greatly in temperature, leading to uncomfortable cold and hot spots. When you upgrade your furnace and its components to newer models, you may be able to boost the comfort level of you and your family.

Physical Appearance

Finally, you can take a quick inventory of your furnace’s physical appearance. If you see signs of rusting, cracks, or other structural weaknesses, it may be a smart idea to evaluate your new furnace options.

Contact Godby Heating, Plumbing, Electrical for All Your Furnace Needs

If you’d like a professional assessment of your current operation costs and the typical return on investment (ROI) of a new furnace, give our team at Godby Heating, Plumbing, Electrical in Carmel, IN, a call. Our trained technicians can help you evaluate your system and share information about new models available to help you make an informed decision. Call us at 317-471-8700 or request service online.