Don’t Get Left in the Cold: 5 Signs Your Furnace Needs Repair This Fall

Written by Javid Hasanzade on November 3, 2025. Posted in Blog.

As the crisp autumn air settles into Northern Virginia and the D.C. area, it’s time to think about your home’s heating system. The worst time to discover your furnace is broken is during the first freezing night of winter. By paying attention to the warning signs now, you can schedule a repair before it becomes an emergency.

Here are five signs that your furnace needs a professional inspection this fall.

Don't Get Left in the Cold: 5 Signs Your Furnace Needs Repair This Fall

1. Strange Noises

Your furnace should operate with a gentle hum. If you start hearing loud or unusual sounds, it’s a cry for help.

Banging or Popping: Could indicate a problem with your burners or ductwork.
Squealing or Whining: Often points to a problem with the blower motor or a belt.
Grinding or Scraping: This is a serious sound that could mean a major issue with the motor bearings. Turn the system off immediately and call for service.

2. Higher-Than-Usual Energy Bills

If your heating bills suddenly spike without a change in your usage, your furnace is likely struggling. A system that has to work harder to produce the same amount of heat is an inefficient one, often due to a failing component or a need for maintenance.

3. The Pilot Light is Yellow (Not Blue)

If you have an older gas furnace with a pilot light, take a look at the flame. A healthy pilot light should be a steady, blue color. If the flame is yellow, flickering, or weak, it could be a sign of incomplete combustion, which can produce dangerous carbon monoxide.

4. Difficulty Starting the Furnace

Does your furnace struggle to kick on? Do you have to reset it frequently or cycle the power to get it to start? This indicates a problem with the ignition system, thermostat, or electrical components.

5. Poor Air Quality

A furnace doesn’t just heat your air; it circulates it. If you notice an increase in dust, dry air, or stale smells in your home, it could be a sign that your furnace and ductwork need cleaning and a professional tune-up.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Schedule a Repair

Ignoring these warning signs won’t make them go away. A small problem with your furnace can quickly escalate into a complete system failure, leaving you without heat when you need it most. Addressing issues in the fall is safer, more convenient, and often less expensive than an emergency winter repair.

Ensure your home stays warm and safe all season long. Schedule a furnace inspection and repair with the licensed HVAC experts at Appliance Surgeon today.