When the winter chill hits, the last thing you want to hear is a strange clanking from the basement or, worse, absolute silence from your heating system.

1. Spot the Red Flags , you should look out for:

• Strange Noises: Banging, screeching, or rattling often indicate loose parts or a failing blower motor.
• Yellow Pilot Light: For gas furnaces, a flickering or yellow flame (instead of steady blue) can signal a dangerous carbon monoxide or ventilation issue.
• Frequent Cycling: If the unit turns on and off constantly without reaching the set temperature, it may be overheating.
• Rising Energy Bills: A sudden spike often means the system is working overtime to compensate for a hidden mechanical failure.

2. Try These Quick Fixes First

Sometimes the “repair” doesn’t require a technician. Before calling for help, Air Clinic Heating & Cooling recommends checking these basics:

• The Thermostat: Ensure it’s set to “Heat” and the batteries aren’t dead.
• The Air Filter: A clogged filter restricts airflow and can cause the system to shut down for safety. Princeton Fuel Oil suggests replacing them every 1–3 months.
• The Circuit Breaker: Check your electrical panel to ensure a tripped breaker hasn’t cut power to the unit.

3. When to Call the Pros

While DIY maintenance is great, internal repairs—especially on gas lines or electronic ignitions—can be dangerous. We warn that unlicensed gas repairs are often illegal and risk gas leaks. Call a licensed HVAC technician if you experience:

• The smell of gas (“rotten eggs”).
• A faulty ignitor or flame sensor.
• Visible cracks in the heat exchanger.

4. Repair vs. Replace: The $5,000 Rule

If your repair bill is high, you might wonder if it’s time for a new unit. Some companies suggest using the $5,000 Rule: multiply the age of your unit by the cost of the repair. If the total exceeds $5,000, a replacement is likely the smarter investment. For example:

• 10 years old x $300 repair = $3,000 (Repair it!)
• 15 years old x $500 repair = $7,500 (Replace it!)

5. Prevention is the Best Repair

The easiest way to avoid emergency repair costs is an annual furnace tune-up. A professional inspection can catch small issues—like a frayed blower belt or a dirty sensor—before they lead to a total system failure in the middle of a blizzard.
Are you experiencing a specific symptom, like a blowing cold air or a persistent clicking sound?
So, get your furnace repaired with Air Clinic Heating & Cooling!
Timely furnace repair keeps your home comfortable, protects your family’s safety, and saves you money in the long run.