When your furnace or heater stops working properly, it’s more than an inconvenience — it can quickly become a safety issue. Homeowners often search online when they notice cold air, loud noises, strange smells, or a system that won’t turn on. Below, we answer the most common furnace and heating questions and explain when it’s time to call a local HVAC professional.

Why Is My Furnace Blowing Cold Air?

A furnace blowing cold air is one of the most common reasons homeowners call for local furnace repair. Common causes include:

• Thermostat set to “Fan On” instead of “Auto”
• Dirty air filter restricting airflow
• Pilot light or ignition failure
• Furnace overheating and triggering a safety shutoff
• Internal component issues

If cold air continues after a few minutes, your furnace likely needs professional inspection and repair.

Why Is My Heater Not Turning On?

If your heater won’t turn on at all, it could be due to:

• Dead thermostat batteries
• Tripped breaker or power issue
• Clogged air filter causing a safety shutdown
• Faulty flame sensor or ignition system
• Gas supply problems

A licensed local heating technician can quickly diagnose and restore heat safely.

Why Is My Furnace So Loud?

Unusual furnace noises should never be ignored. Common sounds include:

• Banging or popping: Delayed ignition or expanding metal
• Screeching or squealing: Motor or belt issues
• Rattling: Loose panels or internal parts
• Booming: Burner or ignition problems

Loud furnaces often signal mechanical wear that can worsen without prompt service.

Why Is My Thermostat Not Working?

A malfunctioning thermostat can prevent your furnace from operating correctly. Causes include:

• Dead batteries
• Loose wiring
• Dust buildup
• Incorrect calibration
• Old or failing thermostat

Replacing or repairing a thermostat is often a quick fix that restores full heating performance.

Should I Repair or Replace My Furnace?

Homeowners frequently ask whether furnace repair or replacement makes more sense. Key factors include:

• Furnace age (15–20 years is typical lifespan)
• Frequency of breakdowns
• Cost of repairs compared to replacement
• Rising energy bills
• Comfort inconsistencies

A trusted local HVAC company like Walchuk Heating and Cooling can provide honest recommendations based on your system and budget.

How Long Do Furnaces Normally Last?

Most residential furnaces last 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance. Lifespan depends on:

• Annual servicing
• Installation quality
• System sizing
• Local climate conditions

Regular maintenance helps prevent breakdowns and extends system life.

Is It Dangerous If My Furnace Smells Like Gas?

Yes. A gas smell is an emergency.

• Leave the house immediately
• Do not use electrical switches or flames
• Call your gas provider or emergency services
• Then contact a licensed HVAC professional

Never ignore gas odors — safety always comes first.

Why Does My Heater Smell Like Burning?

Burning smells can mean different things:

• Dust burning off at season startup (normal briefly)
• Electrical overheating
• Motor or belt issues
• Blocked airflow

If the smell persists or resembles plastic or rubber, turn the system off and schedule service immediately.

What Causes a Furnace Heat Exchanger to Crack?

Cracked heat exchangers are serious and often require furnace replacement. Causes include:

• Chronic overheating from airflow restrictions
• Normal metal fatigue over time
• Improper furnace sizing
• Poor installation

Cracks can allow carbon monoxide to enter your home and must be addressed right away.

What Does a Bad Blower Motor Sound Like?

A failing blower motor may produce:

• Grinding noises (bearing failure)
• Squealing (belt or motor wear)
• Humming with little airflow
• Rattling from loose mounts

Blower motor issues reduce comfort and efficiency and should be repaired promptly.

When to Call a Local Furnace Repair Expert

Call a professional if you notice:

• No heat or cold air blowing
• Loud or worsening noises
• Gas or burning smells
• Frequent system shutdowns
• A furnace older than 15 years

A qualified local HVAC technician can diagnose issues early, improve efficiency, and keep your home safe and warm.

Need Furnace or Heater Repair Near You?

If your furnace or heater isn’t working properly, don’t wait. Prompt service helps prevent bigger problems, improves energy efficiency, and keeps your family safe.

📍 Serving homeowners in [Whitby / Surrounding Area's]
📞 Call today for fast, reliable furnace repair and heating service 905-622-5435