Uneven heating can make it hard to stay cozy, but installing a modern furnace can eliminate warm and cold spots at home. Otherwise, inconsistent temperatures can make it difficult to sleep or enjoy a football watch party. Replacing your furnace before it gives out may seem unnecessary. However, modern heating systems run more smoothly and are more adaptable. Read on to learn why having Medley upgrade your furnace can help achieve more even and efficient heating.

Why Uneven Heating Happens

Uneven heating can occur for several reasons. These are some of the most common causes of hot and cold spots in homes in Carrollton:

• Aging/Outdated Furnace: Heating systems become less effective as they age. The absence of modern technology can also play a role.
• The Furnace Is the Wrong Size: The unit may have not been sized properly when installed or, if you’ve expanded your home, it might not have the power to provide enough heat.
• Poor Airflow: Restricted airflow, whether caused by a faulty blower motor, blocked vents, or other issues, can prevent your furnace from delivering enough warm air.
• Lack of Zoning: Without zoning in larger and multi-level homes, an old unit may be unable to transport enough heat to warm the entire space.

Inconsistent temperature control can also contribute to uneven heating, as can a lack of features that address temperature and airflow regulation. On top of these, high energy consumption increases utility costs, so the extra expenses can go towards purchasing a modern furnace.

Key Features of Modern Furnaces That Address Uneven Heating

Several aspects of modern furnace systems contribute to more consistent heating. These are some of the features that improve furnace and HVAC system performance and efficiency:

Variable-Speed Blower Motors

A variable-speed motor uses an inverter to adjust its speed depending on the heating output needed. More precise control allows for consistent comfort around your home. It also improves energy efficiency since your heating unit runs smoothly and only at the required level.

Multi-Stage Heating Systems

A single-stage system operates at only one speed. Instead of running at just full capacity, a multi-stage heating system can operate at different capacities. A two-stage unit is the most basic type, but variable-speed furnaces operate between 25% and 100% of full capacity. 

Variable output allows the unit to consume less power and control temperatures to within half a degree.

Zoning Systems

A zoning system can optimize temperature control for different parts of your home. It requires installing dampers in your air ducts or vents and placing thermostats in each room or area you want zoned heating. Some systems can be managed via a centralized control panel. Zoning is ideal for multi-level homes or when occupants have different heating preferences.

Smart Thermostats and Controls

Most modern furnaces are compatible with smart thermostats. These allow more precise temperature management by monitoring sensors around your home. The thermostat can also learn your usage habits and be controlled remotely via your smartphone or other Wi-Fi-connected device.

Benefits of Upgrading to a Modern Furnace

Upgrading your furnace provides access to the latest features. It also has numerous benefits, such as:

• Improved Comfort: A modern furnace eliminates cold spots as it’s better at maintaining even temperatures. It also improves airflow so your home is more comfortable.
• Energy Efficiency: High-efficiency furnaces can reduce your utility bills significantly. A heating unit’s Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) measures how well it converts fuel to heat; a high-efficiency unit has a 90% AFUE or higher.
• Reduced Environmental Impact: Modern furnaces produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions; eco-friendly heating helps make your home more sustainable.
• Increased Home Value: Upgrading your HVAC system can make your home more appealing to potential buyers. Advanced heating technology is one improvement that can help increase resale value.

When Should You Upgrade Your Furnace?

At Medley, we’re committed to helping you make an informed decision. Replacing your furnace is not an easy choice, especially when your older one still works. However, the following considerations can help you decide when it’s time for an upgrade: 

Signs Your Furnace Is Causing Uneven Heating

• Frequent cold spots
• Uneven heating
• High energy bills
• Inconsistent airflow
• Noisy operation

Age and Efficiency of Your Furnace

A furnace typically lasts around 15 to 20 years if you maintain it properly. But even with good maintenance, components inside your furnace start to wear out. It may then distribute air less effectively, leading to uneven heating.

Repair vs. Replacement

A furnace repair can cost hundreds of dollars; a major repair can cost over $1,000. The more frequently the unit requires fixing, the more cost-effective it is to buy a new one. This is also true if a repair costs over 50% of the price of a replacement. It also avoids the inconvenience and cost of dealing with future issues.

How to Choose the Right Furnace for Your Home

If you’ve decided to invest in a modern furnace, choosing the right one is essential. The most important factors to consider include:

• The right furnace size for your home’s square footage.
• Zoning, variable-speed motors, multi-stage heating, and other modern features.
• AFUE ratings and Energy Star certification.

It’s also important to hire a certified HVAC professional for furnace installation. They can help choose the right type and sized heating unit. In addition, they’re equipped with the tools and materials to install it properly. Combined with system testing and calibration, this ensures optimal performance throughout the unit’s lifespan (you can also depend on your local heating contractor for maintenance and upkeep, which helps it continue to run smoothly and efficiently).

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Is Consistent Heating Important?

Uneven temperatures can affect your physical health by exacerbating cold symptoms and chronic conditions such as asthma or arthritis. They can also contribute to stress and poor sleep quality. Consistent heating is not only good for your health but also for your indoor air quality and the energy efficiency of your home.

How Do I Know My Furnace Is Causing Uneven Heating?

If the problem is with your furnace, the unit may be short cycling, or turning on and off more frequently. An aging furnace may also be less effective at heating rooms farther away from it. Hiring a professional to troubleshoot and inspect it can determine if a replacement is the best uneven heating solution.

Can I Fix Uneven Heating Without Replacing My Furnace?

Depending on the unit’s condition, you can replace the filters more often, keep the fan at “On” instead of “Auto”, or schedule maintenance to address the issue. Installing a programmable thermostat can help adjust the heating level to your needs. A licensed contractor can help decide on the best option, whether it involves a simple modification or a new furnace installation.

Call Medley Today

Eliminating cold spots in homes can be challenging with an old heater. We can determine your heating needs and install a modern furnace. Our licensed HVAC technicians have helped homeowners in Carrollton resolve uneven heating issues. Use our interactive tool for furnace replacement pricing. To schedule an appointment or learn about financing, contact us today.

Whether in your kitchen sink or bathtub, a clogged drain is among the most common plumbing problems. It’s also one of the most disruptive, especially when clogs spread to numerous drains in your home. Explore common causes and signs of drain blockages and learn when it’s time to call a professional for drain repair and cleaning.

Common Causes of Clogged Drains

Numerous factors contribute to clogging, such as:

• Fats, oils, grease: When you pour cooking oils and grease down your drains, they eventually cool and solidify, narrowing your pipes and leading to clogs.
• Food scraps: Scraping leftover food down the drain instead of the garbage or compost may cause significant clogs, especially if it’s foods that are sticky or starchy.
• Soap: Soap scum can accumulate in your pipes and gradually narrow the passageways.
• Hair: When hair tangles with shampoo and other products, it forms obstructions that restrict water flow.
• Mineral buildup: In areas with hard water, minerals build up along pipe walls, narrowing them over time.
• Trash: Improper disposal practices can cause blockages. Even disposable wipes, feminine hygiene products, paper towels, and other materials don’t break down easily.
• Tree roots: Roots are drawn to the moisture in your pipes and may eventually penetrate them, leading to severe damage and blockages in your plumbing line.

Signs You Need Professional Drain Cleaning

Early recognition of plumbing problems helps prevent more severe damage and repair costs later on. Several symptoms suggest the need for professional drain cleaning. These may include:

• Frequent clogs: Frequent or persistent clogs are a clear sign of stubborn obstructions or buildup.
• Multiple clogs: If several drains clog simultaneously, you may have blockages deeper in your plumbing and sewer lines.
• Slow drains: Standing or slow-draining water often stems from narrowed pipes.
• Foul odors: Decomposing organic matter in your lines can emit foul odors from your plumbing fixtures.
• Gurgling noises: Gurgling noises from fixtures and lines indicate air trapped in pipes due to a blockage.
• Backed-up water or sewage: Even one backup suggests a blockage in the main sewer line.

Our Drain & Rooter Services

At Medley, our drain and rooter services offer specialized plumbing solutions to clear blockages and keep your plumbing system in good working order. Serving Carrollton, Dallas, Denton, and other Texas areas, we’re the leading service provider for drain and rooter services. With a team of licensed and expert plumbers, you can take advantage of high-quality workmanship, code-compliant repairs, and prompt response.

Our professional drain cleaning services can address a variety of drain types, including:

• Kitchen sinks
• Bathroom sinks
• Showers and bathtubs
• Toilets
• Main sewer lines

Our plumbing team employs a range of advanced technology and techniques to resolve blockages and clean your plumbing lines. They’ll start with a thorough inspection of your system to identify the underlying cause, such as leaking or broken pipes, often using a pressure gauge, thermal imaging camera for temperature differences in walls, or a specialized plumbing camera that provides a live video feed.

Several strategies can clear blockages depending on their nature and scale. Motorized drain snakes or augers allow our team to target and dislodge blockages deep in your plumbing system. Hydrojetting, which uses high-pressure water, can also remove blockages and clean your pipes.

Benefits of Professional Drain Cleaning

Many homeowners attempt to tackle clogs themselves, but some circumstances call for professional drain cleaning. Professional plumbers have the skills and experience to efficiently and accurately identify the underlying cause of blockages and can tailor their approach to your system and its specific issues.

Plumbers also have industry-standard tools that allow them to permanently resolve blockages without invasive techniques. For instance, hydrojetting not only breaks up acute blockages but also scrubs buildup from pipe walls. Removing buildup restores narrowed pipes to their proper size, allowing for optimal water flow and reducing the risk of future blockages.

Professional drain cleaning methods are also the best for your system’s health. DIY cleaning and unclogging methods often utilize corrosive chemicals that may damage your fixtures and plumbing system and pose health hazards to you and the environment. Using approved methods and adhering to plumbing codes and safety regulations, professional cleaning ensures your pipe’s cleanliness without compromising durability or longevity.

Preventing Future Clogs

After addressing clogs in your system with professional drain cleaning, preventative measures help minimize gradual buildup and future clogs. Try these strategies to keep your drains flowing smoothly:

• Avoid disposing of food waste: Use a composting system or garbage disposal for food scraps. Scrape food off of dishes before washing them in the sink.
• Don’t dump cooking grease: Instead of draining oils down your sink, store used liquid oils in sealed containers and dispose of them in your trash. 
• Practice good toilet habits: Avoid flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper down your toilets, such as cotton balls and disposable wipes.
• Install drain covers: Use screens or grates to catch hair, food, and other debris.
• Flush your drains: Occasionally flushing drains with boiling water or vinegar and baking soda mixtures can help break down buildup.
• Upgrade pipe insulation: Insulation protects your pipes from extreme temperatures that may lead to cracks, which increase the risk of root intrusion and other clogs.
• Arrange for prompt repairs: Address minor leaks or other concerns before they escalate into severe problems.

Clear Clogs Away With Medley’s Drain and Rooter Services

Don’t let clogs and backups disrupt your home’s convenience and comfort. Take advantage of transparent pricing, competitive financing, and other benefits when you choose Medley sewer line cleaning, hydro jetting, and other drain and rooter services in Carrollton and other Texas counties. Contact us today or book online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I unclog a drain myself?

Some DIY methods can resolve minor clogs. Plungers and snakes may dislodge localized clogs, and boiling water or vinegar and baking soda gently scrub away some grease buildup.

How much does professional drain cleaning cost?

Professional drain cleaning costs vary depending on the severity of the blockage and the cleaning method. Investing in professional services is often more cost-effective than ignoring problems or using harmful cleaners.

Your furnace houses a complex ignition system with numerous components that ensure safe and efficient heating throughout your home. When your furnace’s flame sensor fails, it leaves your home vulnerable to a range of heating problems, from uneven temperatures to more significant safety hazards. Learn why your furnace isn’t starting or working as it should by understanding how a flame sensor works, the symptoms of a faulty sensor, and how to troubleshoot.

What is a Flame Sensor?

A flame sensor is a furnace safety component designed to detect a flame from the burner, which generates combustion, fire, and heat for your home. If the sensor fails to detect a flame, it shuts off to prevent gas from accumulating in the chamber — a situation that can lead to significant furnace damage or safety hazards. Furnaces have different types of flame sensors, but they work similarly.

In an electric furnace, a thin metal rod makes up the sensor, which creates an electrical current to confirm the presence of a flame. This process is called flame rectification — using a positive charge from the sensor’s current to attract negative ions from the flame. If it detects a flame, it’ll communicate with the control board and allow heating to proceed. If there’s little or no flame, the sensor won’t detect any negative ions, triggering its fail-safe mechanism to close the gas valve and shut off the gas supply.

Older gas furnace models with pilot lights often have a different type of sensor, called a thermocouple. The sensor relies on the pilot light to keep its tip at a certain temperature. If the light goes out and the thermocouple cools, it’ll shut off the gas valve.

Signs of a Faulty Flame Sensor

Flame sensors typically fail because of either corrosion, rust, silt buildup, wiring problems, or other damage. Flame sensors have an expected lifespan of about 5 years, compared to a furnace lifespan of 10 to 20 years, so you can expect yours to need periodic cleaning, repair, or replacement.

Since the flame sensor plays an important part in gas flow, ignition, and heating cycle initiation, a faulty sensor is associated with numerous symptoms. These may include:

• Short cycling
• Ignition failure
• Clicking sounds
• High utility bills
• Yellow burner flames
• Exhaust sells
• Rusted fuel lines
• Error codes

Troubleshooting a Flame Sensor

If you suspect a faulty flame sensor in your furnace, a visual inspection is the starting point for troubleshooting a furnace flame sensor.

Start by shutting the furnace off at the power source and letting it cool. Depending on your furnace, you may need to remove screws or bolts to remove the cover and access the burner assembly. You should find the sensor near the burner assembly — look for a brass or copper-colored metallic rod that’s between 3 and 6 inches long, mounted at a 45 or 90-degree angle, and tipped with porcelain. Refer to your owner’s manual if you’re unable to find the sensor. Look for these characteristics that indicate sensor damage or fault:

• Cracks or bends
• Corrosion or discoloration
• Silt buildup
• Loose, disconnected, or out of position

Other faulty components in your furnace may have overlapping symptoms of poor performance, so it’s important to rule out the straightforward fixes. Inspect your thermostat, making sure that it has fresh batteries and proper temperature settings. If you haven’t changed your air filter recently, check it for clogs and replace it as needed. Check that the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped and disconnected power if your furnace isn’t running at all. If you rule out these common problems, the issue likely lies with your sensor or more complex furnace ignition problems.

When to Call a Professional

If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with troubleshooting or find damage or buildup on your sensor, consult an HVAC technician. Certain circumstances necessitate professional help, such as safety concerns and persistent symptoms. An HVAC technician uses specialized diagnostic tools and techniques to inspect your furnace and identify underlying problems. DIY efforts may result in incorrect fixes that further compromise your furnace’s function and safety, often leading to more costly repairs.

Prompt action is important since the sensor is an important safety component. Besides straining your system and impeding its efficiency, ignoring a faulty flame sensor increases the risk of gas accumulation, gas leaks, and carbon monoxide poisoning. A dirty sensor may also repeatedly trigger, sometimes causing a lockout furnace system shutdown. 

Preventative Maintenance

Preventative furnace maintenance helps keep your flame sensor and other components in good working order, minimizing strain on your system and lowering the risk of breakdowns or premature replacement.

Schedule professional maintenance annually to ensure the performance of your furnace, ideally ahead of peak heating season so that your furnace is ready when you need it. During a maintenance visit, your HVAC technician will conduct a comprehensive inspection, tune-up components as needed, and identify potential problems before they escalate.

Try these strategies for periodic maintenance:

• Change air filters 
• Visually inspect your equipment
• Keep vents open and unobstructed
• Test your carbon monoxide detectors

Call Medley’s HVAC Technicians to Fix Your Flame Sensor

Knowing the signs of a faulty flame sensor enables you to troubleshoot and call a professional for flame sensor replacement or repair. Serving Carrollton and other surrounding areas, Medley is your go-to provider for furnace repair, maintenance, and more. Take advantage of transparent pricing, flexible financing, and more benefits when you rely on our HVAC team  — contact us or schedule a service online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I clean my flame sensor myself?

Homeowners with HVAC knowledge or experience may feel comfortable cleaning the flame sensor, but it requires disconnecting the sensor, carefully cleaning it, and reinstalling it. It’s often best to leave this task to professionals since a fault with this safety feature can have significant consequences.

Why does my furnace keep shutting off after a few seconds?

If your furnace shuts down shortly after starting, a faulty flame sensor might be to blame. Problems with the thermostat, gas supply, burner, and other components may also cause your furnace to shut down repeatedly.

Temperatures can be particularly unforgiving in Highland Village, Texas. To stay comfortable, you need a reliable air conditioning system throughout the season. However, like any other system, your HVAC system has a lifespan. When it reaches this lifespan, the systems will let you know. Regardless of how well you maintain it, replacing the HVAC unit is inevitable. HVAC repair can quickly become too expensive, and a replacement may seem the best option. At Medley, we recommend upgrading your HVAC system if it’s nearing its lifespan. Some of the signs that it’s time to upgrade your home’s HVAC system in Texas include:

Your Utility Bill Keeps Going Up

The first sign that you need to upgrade your HVAC system is an increase in energy bills. If your bills are rising steadily during the summer months, your HVAC system could be overworking. While the efficiency of your system will decrease over time, dirt build-up, corrosion, and normal wear and tear can affect efficiency. However, before you replace it, you may want to speak to our technicians to conduct thorough air conditioning maintenance and repair. During our inspection, we can determine whether you need a new system or not.

The Circuit Breaker Keeps Tripping

Your circuit breaker can trip frequently due to overloading or if it’s faulty. Over time, the system may get clogged with dirt and debris, which will gradually affect its efficiency. If this problem is not solved, it forces the system to overwork to heat the home. As a result, the wires can overheat, causing the breaker to trip. By this time, your heating and air conditioning system may need thorough repair, which can be costly. In this case, your technician may recommend installing a new one.

Unusual Noises From The HVAC System

If your system is making noises you’ve never heard before, you could have a serious HVAC problem. The noises could be from an overworking motor, loose or worn-out parts, or cracked or broken components. Loud rattling, clanking, or banging sounds can be dangerous. Turn off the unit and call your HVAC technician immediately.

Uneven Temperatures In Your Home

Whether you have a ducted or ductless air conditioning system in your home, uneven temperatures signal something wrong with cool or warm air transfer. That means some rooms will be sweltering while others will feel colder. Sometimes, all that you need to restore even temperatures is duct cleaning. If cleaning doesn’t work, your technician may recommend ductwork replacement or a new system.

The System Keeps Breaking Down

If you’re using too much money on costly HVAC repairs, you should start thinking about a new system. An older system will require repairs and may end up breaking down in the middle of summer or winter, which can be frustrating and uncomfortable.  A system that requires constant maintenance may also cause your energy bills to go up, adding to the extra costs.

Let Us Help You Save Money And Enjoy Some Peace And Comfort

Don’t let your HVAC system frustrate you during this hot Texas weather. Medley can help you choose a system that will serve your home for many years and help install it for you. Feel free to contact us for a replacement quote or any other HVAC service.

Summers in Texas can be extreme, especially in the western and central regions. However, that doesn’t mean you should miss those backyard barbecues and eventful vacation trips, because all you need to do is keep your HVAC system ready to cool your space. If you haven’t used the unit for some time, it’s prudent to inspect, clean, and maintain it to ensure it operates efficiently throughout the season. At Medley, we can help you conduct routine maintenance to enjoy a cool and comfortable home or workplace. In this post, we will list a few things you can do to keep your HVAC system ready for summer.

Check Filters: Replace Or Clean Them As Needed

One of the easiest ways to keep your air conditioning working efficiently is by cleaning or replacing your air filters. AC filters can become dirty, dusty, and clogged when used for prolonged periods, restricting airflow. The result is reduced cooling in the home, which forces your system to overwork to keep the house at comfortable temperatures, skyrocketing your electricity bills. You can choose replaceable filters or buy durable filters that you can wash frequently.

Clean The Dirty Vents And Ductwork

Another common issue you must address when preparing your HVAC system is cleaning the dirty vents and ductwork. The ducts and vents have a critical function that makes them vulnerable to dirt, which can massively affect unit operation. Supply vents suck in air and move it into the air ducts that direct the air into the cooling unit. Once cooled, the ducts release the air through the return vents, which circulate back into your home.

You can inspect and determine whether you need a simple cleaning solution or hire our professionals at Medley to perform a thorough cleaning. Check for dust, dirt, pet dander, and any debris blocking the vents.

Check For Obstructions Around The Unit

The exterior part of your air conditioning unit is made of multiple parts, like the condenser. If you haven’t cleared your compound and the area around the unit, begin by clearing plants, pikes, bushes, and any materials from your unit to ensure nothing is blocking the airflow to the condensing unit.

Test Your HVAC System

Once you have carefully inspected every component and established everything looks fine, you want to ensure the unit is functioning as it should. To do this, you must test your air conditioning system by turning it on for a few minutes. Set the thermostat to cool and watch how the system operates. If it works well, you have nothing to worry about. If it requires repair, you have enough time to call us and schedule an air conditioning repair before the Texas temperatures are in full swing.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

Even if your unit looks fine, it’s important to get a professional to inspect and fix any issues you may have missed before the season kicks in. A comprehensive AC tune-up with our licensed professionals at Medley in Coppell, TX can help save you from costly repairs and replacements.

Let Us Help You

Whether you need AC maintenance, installation, replacement, or a simple repair, we’re here to help. Our customer-oriented technicians will inspect and fix any problems your unit may have to help you stay cool and comfortable anytime. Contact us anytime, and we’ll be happy to help.