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When to Call Us for Emergency Furnace Repair

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There are obvious situations that will prompt a homeowner to call for emergency furnace repair in Gallatin County, MT. A furnace that won’t power on entirely or one that’s emitting cold air are a few obvious circumstances.

Although you may be hesitant to call for emergency repair if you have a backup source of heat such as a fireplace, there are some situations that shouldn’t wait until the next day. Let’s go over when you should call us for emergency furnace repair. We offer true 24/7 emergency services. We’ll also explain what that means.

Furnace Won’t Power On

Even if you have a backup heat source, you still can’t afford to be without a working furnace during a Montana winter. Because what if something were to happen to your backup plans?

Until the reason why your furnace won’t turn on is diagnosed, your furnace is still a potential safety hazard. If you have a gas-powered furnace, there could be a gas leak. 

Handling Utility Bill Spikes and Furnace Efficiency Loss

A sudden rise in utility bills can indicate that your furnace is working harder due to blockages, dirty filters, or aging components. Dust and debris buildup restrict airflow, forcing the system to use more energy. A clogged furnace filter or worn parts, such as a deteriorating blower motor, can contribute to inefficiencies that go unnoticed until bills spike. Regular cleaning and replacing filters every three months can prevent these issues while extending the life of the unit.

Cracked Heat Exchanger

A cracked heat exchanger is a rare but dangerous issue that demands immediate attention. It can cause gas leaks and carbon monoxide exposure, making it critical to address the problem promptly. For more signs that indicate a furnace is on its last leg, check out signs your furnace is due for replacement to determine whether a new system might be the safest option.

The heat exchanger is made of metal and is subject to constant wear and tear as it expands and contracts with each heating cycle. Eventually, this strain can cause small cracks to develop. 

The signs of a cracked heat exchanger include a furnace that won’t power on or isn’t producing heat, your home’s carbon monoxide (CO) detectors have gone off, you can smell sulfur or rotten eggs, and you can hear a clicking noise after the furnace blower shuts off. 

This constitutes a true emergency. You should power down the furnace, evacuate your home immediately, then call for help.

Visible Smoke or the Smell of Burning Parts

The other potential safety hazard a furnace poses is a fire. Although this is another rare situation, it’s possible with a gas, oil, or electric furnace.

If your furnace is visibly smoking or you can smell smoke in your home that can’t be attributed to anything else, there are a few potential causes. A common reason is that the burner is malfunctioning. The burner ignites the gas or oil that powers the furnace. A dirty, clogged, or grimy burner can produce smoke. The blower fan could also overheat and generate smoke. For more potential hazards to watch out for, review 4 things that can go wrong with gas furnaces to stay ahead of any dangerous situations.

If your furnace starts showing signs of a serious problem, immediate action is essential to prevent further damage or safety hazards. Learn more about preparing your system for the harsh winter by reading our guide to bracing freezing temperatures, so you can avoid emergencies altogether.

We Offer True Emergency HVAC Services

Many HVAC contractors list 24/7 service on their website. However, sometimes all that means is that someone answers the phone after hours. We offer true 24/7 services which mean if needed, we’ll go to your home outside of regular business hours to take care of any furnace emergency you’re experiencing. 

Clear Indicators for Emergency HVAC Calls

Recognizing early signs such as strange noises, water leaks near the furnace, or rapid cycling of your HVAC system can help avoid emergencies. Unusual sounds like banging or rattling often signal mechanical failures, while leaks may indicate condensation drain problems. Ignoring these signs can lead to expensive breakdowns, so addressing them promptly ensures continued safety and comfort.

Contact Ambient Air Solutions today for professional furnace repair in Gallatin County, MT. Simplifying Heating & Cooling!

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