Hi homeowners, Marty here, your resident Still Expert.
Your house may not have a voice, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have something to say.
It communicates through strange noises, uncomfortable rooms, dripping faucets, unusual smells and heating equipment working overtime.
But it always makes that noise.
That room has always been cold.
It’s just a little drip.
Those little things can be your home’s way of saying, “Hey! Pay attention over here.” Here are seven signs – and our words of wisdom.
1: Your heating system won’t quit running.
If your furnace or heat pump runs constantly, something may be off. A dirty filter, airflow problem or equipment issue could be making your system work harder.
2: Your heating system has developed a new soundtrack.
Banging, rattling, squealing or grinding aren’t exactly your furnace’s way of singing you a lullaby. If a noise is new or getting worse, have someone take a look before a small issue becomes a bigger one.
3: One room never seems to feel right.
Too cold. Too warm. Too stuffy. Too drafty. Uneven temperatures can point to airflow, ductwork, insulation or other HVAC issues. It shouldn’t feel like you live in four climates.
4: Your energy bill suddenly looks different.
Your utility bill may be the first to notice something has changed. If heating costs climb without a major change in usage, an inefficient system or comfort issue could be part of the problem.
5: Your nose notices something unusual.
Musty, burning or unusual odors from your heating system shouldn’t be ignored. If you smell gas, leave the home immediately and contact emergency services.
6: Your water pressure isn’t what it used to be.
A change in water pressure may be an early sign of a plumbing problem. Listen early before it becomes a bigger problem.
7: You keep hearing that little “drip… drip… drip…”
A dripping faucet or running toilet may not seem like an emergency, but small plumbing issues don’t always stay small. Leaks can waste water, damage materials and become expensive problems.
If your house suddenly sounds, smells, feels or performs differently, don’t dismiss it. You know your home. This fall, take a few minutes to walk around. Listen to the equipment. Look for leaks. Notice unusual sounds and smells. When you catch a warning early, you may be able to deal with a minor problem instead of a major one.
And trust me, homeowners, your home always has something to say. Maybe it’s time to start listening. Stay warm, stay safe and remember: When your home needs to talk to us, we’re here.
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