Question 1

I think my furnace is getting old, is it time to replace it?

Accepted Answer

Due to the long and cold winters in Fort McMurray, furnaces last less than industry averages. If your furnace is five years or older, depending on the unit, you may want to have it inspected, and possibly replaced. Like cell phones and personal computers, the technology used in central heating systems and furnaces is becoming more sophisticated and intelligent. The money you save over a year installing a new state of the art central heating system may pay for the unit itself. You will also have peace of mind that your new heating system is protected by warranty and you will not be left out in the cold.

Question 2

How do I know if my furnace is efficient?

Accepted Answer

Over the past 40 years, the efficiency of furnaces has more than doubled, and the cost of fuel has more than tripled. Switching your old furnace out for a new one can quite literally save you thousands of dollars per year. The only sure-fire way to know if your furnace is operating efficiently is to call for a visit from one of the furnace repair experts at Ram Mechanical. There are a lot of things that go into an efficient central heating system beyond your furnace.

Question 3

My furnace is turning on and off repeatedly, what do I do?

Accepted Answer

If your furnace is turning on and off at a rhythmic pattern, which isn’t normal, there is a good chance you are experiencing ‘short cycling’. This might be a symptom of a much greater problem, and if ignored could cause more damage to your furnace or central heating unit. Common causes of short cycling may include a clogged air filter, faulty flame sensor, defective thermostat or a blocked vent on the outside of the building. If this is occurring during the winter, a very common cause is that an outside vent is plugging with snow or ice. Go outside and have a look, and clear all debris out of the vents. If this isn’t your problem, call the furnace repair technicians at Ram Mechanical immediately, before permanent damage is done to your heating unit or central system.

Question 4

My furnace is making loud and unusual sounds

Accepted Answer

Chances are if something goes wrong with your furnace or central heating system, the first clue will come from your ears. Common irregular noises you may hear are squealing, a loud pop, or scraping. Sometimes you may hear a steady popping sound from your vents on startup and shut down of your heating or cooling system. Typically this is caused by your metal ductwork expanding and contracting for the temperature change and is completely normal. Squealing, like you sometimes hear when a car starts in cold weather, is typically caused by a loose, worn or dirty belt. A loud pop or bang coming from your furnace on start-up could be caused by a delayed ignition of the gas, which has built up due to a dirty burner. A scraping sound when your fan engages is a sign of a loose or broken blower wheel, a sheared shaft on your motor, or worn bearings. There is a multitude of problems which may cause furnace noise. It is very important to call a trusted furnace repair company, like Ram Mechanical, at the first sign of any trouble.

Question 5

A family member or other inhabitant is chronically ill, could my furnace cause chronic illness?

Accepted Answer

While an incorrectly functioning or not properly maintained furnace can cause chronic illness, it is unlikely. What is more likely is that your central heating system is making a pre-existing condition or disease worse. It may be possible that you require additional filtration or protection beyond industry standards. Carbon monoxide sensors should be placed throughout the building and maintained as per manufacturer specifications. Call Ram Mechanical for a dust and allergen assessment, and to discuss your options.

Question 6

I am a general contractor or owner completing a new build, does Ram Mechanical provide furnace installs for new construction, or are they only a furnace service company?

Accepted Answer

Ram Mechanical is a general contractor, sub-contractor, and service company. No matter what you require, Ram Mechanical is here to help. We employ highly experienced and accredited project managers, estimators, field technicians, and tradespeople. Our experienced staff, cutting edge management, accounting and estimating software, and exceptional management team, all come together to form the perfect mechanical and build construction storm.

Furnace Repair – FORT MCMURRAY

Fort McMurray Furnace Repair Company

Common questions