Heating Services

For most standard 1-inch residential filters, you should replace them every 1 to 3 months. However, this schedule depends on your home environment.

Monthly: Recommended if you have pets, multiple occupants, or household members with allergies.

Every 3 months: Typical for homes without pets or significant dust concerns.

Longer intervals (6–12 months): Only applicable if you use high-capacity, thick (4- to 5-inch) media filters.

Most HVAC experts and the U.S. Department of Energy recommend an annual professional tune-up. It is best to schedule this appointment in the fall, before the heating season begins.

An annual inspection ensures the system is clean, safe, and operating at peak efficiency, helping technicians catch small issues (like a worn belt or dirty flame sensor) before they turn into emergency breakdowns during a cold snap.

Strange noises are your system’s way of signaling that a component is failing. You should not ignore these sounds, as they can indicate issues ranging from minor loose parts to serious safety hazards.

Common sounds include:

• Banging or popping: Often points to dirty burners or delayed ignition.

• Squealing or screeching: Usually indicates a failing blower motor or a worn belt.

• Grinding: Frequently a sign of failing motor bearings.

• Rattling: Can be a loose panel, but in some cases, it may indicate a cracked heat exchanger—a serious safety risk.

Action: If you hear persistent or loud noises, turn off the system and contact a professional from Encore.

A helpful rule of thumb for deciding between repair and replacement is the "50% Rule": If the cost of the repair exceeds 50% of the value of a new system, it is usually more cost-effective to replace it.

Other factors to consider:

• Age: If your furnace is 15 years or older, it is nearing the end of its expected lifespan (typically 15–20 years) and may be less efficient than modern units.

• Frequency of Repairs: If you find yourself calling for repairs every season, a new unit will provide better reliability and potentially lower monthly energy costs.

If your vents are blowing cold air, first check your thermostat settings to ensure it is set to "Heat" and the fan is set to "Auto" rather than "On" (which keeps the fan running even when the heating element is off).

If the settings are correct, the issue may be one of the following:

• Clogged Air Filter: Restricted airflow can cause the furnace to overheat and shut down the burners for safety.

• Flame Sensor Issues: If the sensor is dirty, the furnace may fail to keep the burners lit.

• Pilot Light/Ignition Failure: Older units may have a pilot light that has gone out; newer units may have a faulty ignitor.

• Condensate Line Blockage: High-efficiency furnaces may shut down if the drain line is clogged to prevent water damage.