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Our Seasonal Heater FAQ

The mark of the new year means different things to different people. For some, it means buckling down and working hard towards a New Year’s resolution. For HVAC professionals, it means the last big cold fronts of the winter before the pretty colors of spring arrive. Homeowners often come to use at this time of year with persisting questions about their struggling heating system. We’re here to help!

You can’t afford to lose heating in Sarasota, FL. While our community might be much warmer than northern climates, a lot of our local homeowners don’t like the cold and can’t really handle it. When temperatures drop even slightly, it’s important that your heater can keep up with your demands and warm your home appropriately. If you have any questions about the functionality, the efficiency, or the efficacy of your heater, then we seek to answer them.

So, let’s get to some of the most common questions our community has asked us, and we’ll give you the answers you’re looking for!

“How Can I Tell If My Heater Is Struggling?”

There are many ways to tell if a heater is struggling. To start, any noises that your heater makes aside from the sound of air being pushed into your rooms gentle, or the general hum of it working properly, signals a problem. Rattling, grinding, screeching, booming, buzzing, and the like are all signs that something else is wrong and it needs to be repaired.

This isn’t the end of the world. You can call us, even if you don’t know what’s causing the noise, and we’ll give you a hand.

Also, bad smells, high heating bills, and poor comfort levels are all ways to tell that your heater is struggling. If you encounter any of these signs, don’t hesitate to call us for help!

“Is My Heater Safe?”

Many homeowners are concerned with gas furnace safety at this time of year, and we’ve got a simple answer for you—yes, probably. Furnaces are robust and built to last, which means they can take a beating before they actually start risking the health and safety of your home.

That being said, if you notice that your furnace is struggling, you missed a maintenance appointment, or if your home lacks smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, then your heater might not be operating safely. It’s vital that you call us as soon as possible to assess the situation.

“I Skipped Maintenance, Is My Heater Doomed?”

Don’t worry, it happens. While maintenance is important in keeping your heater in good condition, it’s not terrible to miss an appointment. Why not try calling us to schedule one late this year so you can still get the benefits of maintenance and feel less stressed out about missing your old appointment? Late heater maintenance is always better than no maintenance.

“As Long as It Doesn’t Break Down, My Heater Is Fine, Right?”

That’s a pretty low bar to set for your heater. Your system could be costing you hundreds of dollars a year while still technically functioning. Think about your comfort levels, the temperature on your thermostat, your heating bills, and your stress level. If your heater is negatively impacting all of them, then we think it’s safe to say that your heater is not fine.

Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Call Jim McDonald & Sons Heating & Cooling Inc. for heater care. Cooling Sarasota and Manatee Counties since 1970.

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