Expert Furnace Repair Services in Lee's Summit - Lakeside Heating and Cooling

To ensure your furnace is running efficiently and to prevent potential issues, it's recommended to have it serviced by a professional HVAC technician at least once a year. Ideally, this service should be performed before the heating season begins in the fall. This annual maintenance can include checking the furnace's components, cleaning the system, and making necessary adjustments or repairs. Regular servicing not only helps maintain efficiency but can also extend the life of your furnace and improve indoor air quality.

Recognizing the signs that your furnace needs repairs can help you address issues before they escalate into more significant problems. Here are the most common signs to watch for:

• 1. Unusual Noises: Banging, whining, or grinding sounds from your furnace can indicate mechanical issues, such as a loose belt or a problem with the ignition system.


• 2. Increased Heating Bills: If your heating costs are rising without an increase in usage, your furnace is losing efficiency and may need repairs or maintenance.


• 3. Frequent Cycling: If your furnace turns on and off more frequently than usual, it could be due to a faulty thermostat, improper airflow, or other issues.


• 4. Inadequate Heat: If your furnace needs to provide more heat or some rooms are warmer, there could be a problem with the blower motor, the heat exchanger, or the ductwork.


• 5. Yellow Pilot Light: A pilot light that burns yellow instead of blue for gas furnaces could indicate carbon monoxide, a severe safety concern requiring immediate attention.


• 6. Difficulty Starting the Furnace: If your furnace struggles to start or doesn't start, the issue could be with the thermostat, the power supply, or the pilot light.


• 7. Poor Air Quality: An increase in dust, dirt, or other airborne particles can indicate that your furnace's filter needs to be changed or that there are issues with the stove itself.


• 8. Strange Odors: A musty or burning smell from your furnace when running can indicate a problem. While a slight burning smell is typical when turning on the stove for the first time each season (due to dust burning off), persistent or strong odors are not.

If you notice any of these signs, it's important to consult with a professional HVAC technician promptly to address them. Ignoring these signs can lead to more serious issues, including system failure or safety hazards.

The duration of a typical furnace repair can vary widely depending on the specific issue, the age and model of the furnace, and the availability of replacement parts. Here are some general guidelines:

• 1. Minor Repairs: Simple issues like replacing a thermostat, fixing minor electrical problems, or changing a clogged air filter can often be resolved in 1 to 2 hours.


• 2. Moderate Repairs: More complex repairs, such as fixing ignitors, flame sensors, or blower motors, might take a few hours to half a day. The technician may need to diagnose the problem, obtain the necessary parts, and make adjustments or replacements.


• 3. Major Repairs: Significant repairs, such as replacing a heat exchanger or extensive electrical wiring issues, could take a full day or longer, especially if parts need to be ordered. In some cases, the complexity and cost of the repair might lead to considering whether replacement is a more viable option.



The repair time can also be affected by the technician's schedule, the time it takes to source parts (if they're not readily available), and whether the repair is an emergency call-out, which could lead to faster service. Generally, an HVAC professional can give you a more accurate estimate after diagnosing the problem.

Yes, there are several furnace maintenance tasks you can perform yourself to keep your system running efficiently and safely. Here are some DIY maintenance tips:

• 1. Change the Air Filter: Regularly changing or cleaning the air filter (every 1-3 months) is crucial for maintaining airflow and air quality. This simple task can significantly impact your furnace's efficiency and longevity.


• 2. Keep the Area Around the Furnace Clear: Ensure no storage or flammable materials are near your furnace. This helps prevent fire hazards and ensures proper airflow.


• 3. Inspect the Thermostat: Check if your thermostat is working correctly and consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat if you haven’t already. This can improve your home's heating efficiency.


• 4. Check Vents and Registers: Ensure all vents and registers in your home are open, unblocked, and clean. This will ensure even heat distribution throughout your home.


• 5. Visual Inspection: Regularly inspect your furnace for signs of wear, unusual noises, or odors. If you notice anything unusual, call a professional.


• 6. Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure your home's carbon monoxide detectors are functioning correctly to detect any dangerous leaks from your furnace.



While these tasks are manageable for most homeowners, more technical maintenance work, such as checking gas connections, electrical wiring, and internal components, should be left to professional HVAC technicians. An annual professional inspection and tune-up are recommended to address these more complex aspects of furnace maintenance and ensure your system is safe and efficient.

Deciding whether to repair or replace your furnace depends on several factors, including the age of the stove, the cost of repairs, its efficiency, and the frequency of breakdowns. Here's a guide to help you make an informed decision:

• 1. Age of the Furnace: If your furnace is older than 15-20 years, it might be nearing the end of its useful life. Newer models are more efficient and could save you money on energy bills in the long run.


• 2. Cost of Repairs: A good rule of thumb is the "50% rule." If the cost of repairs is more than 50% of the cost of a new furnace, it's generally better to replace it.


• 3. Efficiency: Older furnaces are less efficient than modern ones. If your energy bills are consistently high, a new high-efficiency furnace could reduce your heating costs.


• 4. Frequency of Breakdowns: These costs can add up if you're frequently paying for repairs. Investing in a new furnace might be more economical than continuing to repair an old one.


• 5. Safety Concerns: If your furnace has safety issues, such as a cracked heat exchanger, it can release carbon monoxide into your home. In this case, replace the stove immediately.


• 6. Comfort: Older furnaces may struggle to maintain consistent temperatures throughout your home. If you're experiencing comfort issues, a new furnace might solve these problems.


• 7. Environmental Considerations: New furnaces are more efficient and better for the environment because they produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions.



Considering these factors can help you decide whether repairing or replacing your furnace is better. It's also a good idea to consult with a trusted HVAC professional who can assess your furnace's condition and help you weigh the costs and benefits.