When Should You Call For an Emergency Furnace Repair in Franklin?

You're putting the kids to bed, and one of them complains about feeling chilly. That's when you notice it really is cold indoors. You walk over to the thermostat, and while it's set for the right temperature, your Franklin home's furnace isn't maintaining it, and it's clear that something is broken. But it's getting late, and you're not sure you'll be able to get help until tomorrow.

That's when you need to call Johnson Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing's team of furnace repair experts. We're available for emergency service year-round to keep your family and home safe and comfortable. There's no need to delay and have your family spend the entire night freezing under extra blankets. What kinds of situations suggest that your Franklin home may need an emergency furnace repair this winter?

System Failure

The most obvious red flag is a complete system failure. If your furnace completely stops producing heat, something is seriously wrong. Before calling for emergency repair, check the thermostat settings and circuit breaker, plus make sure the pilot light is lit. If everything seems in order and the furnace still isn't working, it's time to seek professional assistance.

Unusual Noises

Furnaces produce some noise during operation, but if you notice sudden, unusual sounds such as banging, screeching, or rumbling, there could be a problem. These noises could indicate problems such as a malfunctioning blower motor, damaged belts, or loose components. The longer you ignore strange noises, the greater the potential for more extensive damage, so it's advisable to call for emergency furnace repair.

Frequent Cycling

Furnaces cycle on and off in regular intervals to maintain a consistent indoor temperature. If you notice that your furnace is either running continuously or turning on and off too frequently, it's a cause for concern. This can strain the system, decrease efficiency, and potentially lead to a breakdown if not addressed promptly.

Uneven Heating

An efficiently functioning furnace should distribute heat evenly throughout your home. If you experience cold spots or notice significant temperature variations from one room to another, there might be issues with the furnace's blower motor, ductwork, or other components. Uneven heating can compromise your comfort, so it's good to get it addressed as quickly as possible.

Carbon Monoxide Leaks

If your carbon monoxide detector is going off, don't ignore it. Immediately provide ventilation with fresh air and call us for help. (Don't have a carbon monoxide detector? Buy one today.) The same is true if everyone in your home is suddenly experiencing dizziness, nausea, and headaches. Carbon monoxide is a natural byproduct of combustion, and it's deadly. The problem is that it is colorless and odorless, so you may not even realize your family is being exposed to a dangerous leak.

Strong Odors

Often, the first time you turn on your Franklin home's heater, you'll notice a brief smoky smell. That's usually normal, representing the furnace burning off dust that's accumulated while you were using your heat. But if your furnace suddenly starts generating odd or unpleasant smells, you should get it looked at right away. A burning smell may suggest components are overheating, while a musty odor might signal mold growth. (If you detect a natural gas odor, evacuate your home immediately and contact emergency services.

Difficulty Starting

If your furnace struggles to start or frequently shuts off shortly after starting, there may be issues with the ignition system, thermostat, or other components. Persistent problems with starting or staying on require professional attention to prevent a complete breakdown.

When Should You Call?

If it's freezing outside and you're experiencing any of these issues, call Johnson Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing right away. We know how important your home's heating is to you and your family, so we'll respond quickly to find out what's going on. And if it turns out to be something minor, don't ever feel embarrassed about calling us, because we don't mind. We'd rather you be on the safe side, because we don't want anything to happen to you, your family, or your Franklin home. We'll help you make the wise choice for your home comfort and ensure you stay safe and warm this winter.