As temperatures drop in Des Moines, a reliable furnace is essential to keep your home warm and comfortable. Don’t wait until a cold snap hits to find out your furnace isn’t up to the task. By recognizing early warning signs, you can take action now and avoid stressful no-heat emergencies later.
At Lenz Heating & Cooling, we help homeowners catch issues before they become problems. Here are the top five signs your furnace may need attention, and how to act proactively this fall.
1. Your Furnace Is Getting Older
Why it matters: Furnaces generally last 15–20 years. If your system is approaching that age, it may struggle to perform reliably in winter.
Early warning signs:
- Frequent minor repairs last season
- Rising energy bills
- Uneven heating in your home
Proactive step: Schedule a professional furnace inspection this fall. Our Lenz technicians can help you decide whether it’s time for a tune-up or a replacement, so your home stays warm all season.
2. Strange Noises When It Runs
Why it matters: Odd sounds are often the first clue that your furnace needs attention.
Common noises to watch for:
- Banging or clanging: Loose or broken components
- Squealing or screeching: Worn blower belts or motors
- Rattling: Debris or failing parts
Proactive step: Don’t ignore it. A fall check-up can prevent small issues from turning into emergency repairs during a cold snap.
3. Unusually High Energy Bills
Why it matters: If your furnace is working harder than necessary, it may be losing efficiency.
Signs to look for:
- Higher bills than last winter despite similar use
- Hot and cold spots around your home
- Frequent cycling on and off
Proactive step: A pre-season maintenance visit can improve efficiency, lower your energy bills, and help your furnace handle winter comfortably.
4. Multiple Repairs Last Year
Why it matters: A furnace that needed several fixes last season may not make it through the winter without additional issues.
Signs of concern:
- Frequent ignition or pilot light problems
- Constant thermostat malfunctions
- Replacing the same components multiple times
Proactive step: Schedule a consultation to discuss repair vs. replacement. Lenz offers free estimates and can help you plan before winter hits.
5. Uneven Heating or Poor Airflow
Why it matters: Your furnace should heat your home consistently. If some rooms are colder than others, your system may be stressed, or ductwork may be restricted.
Signs to check:
- Hot/cold spots in different rooms
- Weak airflow from vents
- Unusual odors when the furnace runs
Proactive step: A fall inspection ensures airflow is optimized, keeping your home warm and your furnace running efficiently.
Take Action Now—Don’t Wait for Winter
October is the perfect time to catch furnace issues early and prepare your home for the season ahead.
Proactive maintenance and timely inspections help you:
- Avoid mid-winter breakdowns
- Lower energy costs
- Extend your furnace’s lifespan
- Keep your family safe and comfortable
By calling Lenz early this fall, you can catch issues before they become emergencies and ensure your home stays warm all winter.
Why You Should Call Lenz Heating & Cooling
Taking a proactive approach is one thing, but having the right team on your side makes all the difference.
Here’s why homeowners in Des Moines trust Lenz:
- Fast, Reliable Service: Our certified technicians respond quickly to inspections, tune-ups, or repairs.
- Expertise You Can Count On: Family-owned, veteran- and woman-operated, we’ve been keeping Des Moines homes comfortable since 2009.
- Comprehensive Solutions: From small repairs to full furnace replacements, we provide honest advice and lasting results.
- 24/7 Emergency Support: Even with proactive maintenance, emergencies can happen—our team is ready any time.
At Lenz Heating & Cooling, we make it easy to schedule a free estimate, sign up for our HVAC service agreement, or explore flexible financing options for repairs or replacement.
Call Lenz Heating & Cooling Today
Be proactive this fall. Prepare your furnace before the cold sets in. Serving Des Moines, West Des Moines, Ankeny, Urbandale, Altoona, and nearby communities, Lenz Heating & Cooling is ready to keep your home cozy all season long.
