Here in Ohio, we can experience unpredictable weather patterns, so it pays to invest in dependable HVAC equipment. Unfortunately, furnace issues can creep up at the most inconvenient times. Use this guide to learn everything you need to know about getting furnace repairs so you and your home stay comfortable all year round.

When to Call a Professional for Furnace Repairs

If you flip that switch and your furnace doesn’t turn on, starts making strange noises, or isn’t pumping out hot air as it should, it’s probably time to call in a professional. Trying to fix complex furnace problems without proper HVAC training can be downright dangerous. Instead, look for these common signs your furnace needs professional furnace repairs: The furnace won’t turn on at all, your furnace turns on but hot air stops flowing through vents, there are loud or strange noises coming from the furnace system, there is visible damage like cracks or leaks, and your energy bills start to increase. According to This Old House, nearly half of the energy used in the average U.S. home is used for heating and cooling, so it's important to get these damages fixed.

Questions to Ask Potential HVAC Repair Companies

You'll want to find out if the company you're going to choose is licensed, bonded, and insured because reputable companies will have the proper credentials. Do they have training and expertise with your specific furnace brand? This often leads to better diagnoses. What availability do they have for emergency furnace repairs in case you're left without heat? Do they offer maintenance plans and warranties that include protection on parts and labor? You should read reviews to see what past customers say about the quality of their furnace repair. Paying attention to these types of factors helps find the most qualified HVAC repair team.

What to Expect During Furnace Repair Appointments

You can expect that the technician will arrive on time and politely introduce themselves. They’ll ask questions to learn more about the issues happening with your furnace system. Next, they’ll thoroughly assess and diagnose your furnace, which, according to our experts, usually takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on complexity. Afterward, the technician explains recommended repairs and associated costs for both parts and labor. With approval, they'll proceed to make all necessary repairs and replacements. At the end, they demonstrate the working, repaired furnace before you pay. Reputable companies aim to make the entire furnace repair process smooth from start to finish, so understanding the general flow helps you know what to expect.

How Homeowners Can Prepare for Repairs

While technicians handle repairs, homeowners can give access to all furnace equipment areas, including clearing any storage boxes away that block access. Make sure you open your availability for the appointment. Ask about removing pets if you have any who might get anxious or excitable with visitors or the loud furnace sounds. Finally, be ready to answer questions about the details of when issues started happening, or any other relevant furnace repair details, as thorough information gets better diagnoses. Preparing your home and answers makes appointments more efficient, which ultimately saves time and money.

Questions to Ask After Furnace Repairs

Before the repair person leaves your home, ask things like if they offer a warranty on parts and labor since reputable companies often include guarantee periods. Ask about the best way to maintain your furnace system going forward via preventative maintenance. See if they have tips to improve efficiency that could save on bills. Consider asking if you should schedule periodic inspections even when it's working to avoid future problems. Lastly, find out who specifically to call if any other furnace problems or questions come up, so you have clear guidance on those next steps both before and after repairs are completed. Getting more furnace use details provides added peace of mind.

Dealing with furnace problems during any kind of weather can be very stressful. You need to inform yourself on what to do, who to call, and what to ask when issues happen. This makes getting prompt professional repairs much smoother. Use this as a handy guide year-round, so you know how to respond quickly whenever furnace problems pop up. If you need repairs, call Mr. Comfort Heating & Cooling and let our technicians help get your warm and comfortable home restored ASAP.