Is Your Furnace Keeping Up? Signs It’s Time for a Mid-Winter Maintenance Check

Winter in Ankeny means frigid temperatures and constant reliance on your furnace to keep your home warm and comfortable. But what happens if your furnace starts showing signs of strain halfway through the season? Ignoring these red flags can lead to unexpected breakdowns or inefficient heating, both of which can leave you shivering and stressed. At Obsidian Heating & Cooling, we believe mid-winter is the perfect time to ensure your furnace is running at peak performance. Here are the key signs it’s time to schedule a maintenance check.

1. Your Home Isn’t Warming Evenly

If you’ve noticed some rooms are warmer than others or your furnace struggles to reach the temperature you’ve set on the thermostat, it’s a sign your system isn’t operating efficiently. Uneven heating could result from dirty filters, blocked vents, or more serious issues like a malfunctioning blower motor. A mid-winter maintenance check can diagnose and fix these problems, restoring consistent comfort throughout your home.

2. Your Energy Bills Are Climbing

A sudden spike in your energy bills could mean your furnace is working harder than it should to keep your home warm. Dirty components, worn-out parts, or improper airflow can all force your system to use more energy. Scheduling a maintenance check can help pinpoint the cause and improve your system’s efficiency, saving you money in the long run.

3. Strange Noises Are Coming from Your Furnace

Furnaces aren’t completely silent, but loud or unusual noises like banging, clanking, or screeching are clear signs something is wrong. These sounds often indicate loose or damaged components, which, if left unchecked, can lead to costly repairs. A professional inspection can address these issues before they escalate, ensuring your system runs smoothly for the rest of the winter.

4. Frequent Cycling

If your furnace is constantly turning on and off (a process known as short cycling), it’s struggling to maintain the desired temperature. This not only wears out your system faster but also wastes energy. Short cycling can be caused by issues like a dirty filter, a malfunctioning thermostat, or an improperly sized furnace. A maintenance check can resolve these problems and get your system back on track.

5. The Air Quality in Your Home Has Declined

Dry winter air can exacerbate respiratory issues and make your home feel uncomfortable, but poor furnace performance can worsen the problem. If you’ve noticed more dust, allergens, or dryness in the air, it could mean your system isn’t filtering and circulating air properly. Cleaning or replacing your furnace’s air filter and ensuring proper airflow can improve indoor air quality and make your home healthier.

6. Your Furnace Is Old or Hasn’t Been Serviced in a While

If your furnace is over 10 years old or it’s been more than a year since its last maintenance check, it’s time to call in the professionals. Regular maintenance helps prolong the life of your system and ensures it operates efficiently, even in the coldest months. Don’t wait for a breakdown—schedule a check-up now to keep your furnace in top shape.

Why Mid-Winter Maintenance Matters

Many homeowners assume that if their furnace was working fine at the start of the season, it doesn’t need attention until spring. However, the constant strain of running in cold weather can lead to wear and tear that impacts performance. A mid-winter maintenance check gives you peace of mind, ensuring your furnace can handle the rest of the season without any surprises.

Trust Obsidian Heating & Cooling for Expert Furnace Care

At Obsidian Heating & Cooling, we understand how important a reliable furnace is during Ankeny’s harsh winters. Our team of experienced technicians is here to provide thorough maintenance checks, address any issues, and keep your home warm and comfortable.

Here’s what our mid-winter maintenance service includes:

• Inspecting and cleaning components for optimal performance

• Checking and replacing air filters to improve airflow

• Testing your thermostat for accuracy

• Identifying and repairing any wear or damage

• Ensuring your system operates safely and efficiently

Conclusion

Don’t let furnace issues leave you out in the cold this winter. If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, now is the perfect time to schedule a mid-winter maintenance check with Obsidian Heating & Cooling. Our expert team will ensure your system is running at its best, so you can enjoy a warm, comfortable home for the rest of the season.

Contact us today to book your maintenance appointment and keep your furnace in peak condition. Stay warm, Ankeny! ❄️🔥