When it comes to costly home repairs, furnaces top the list. That's why many people postpone repairs for as long as possible. One of the problems with postponing furnace repairs is that it can end up costing you more in the long-run – financially and health-wise. If you're having problems with your furnace, you need to have it looked at as soon as possible by a heating contractor, especially if you're experiencing any of the problems described below.

You Smell Rotten Eggs

When your furnace is working the way it should, you shouldn't smell any foul odors. Musty or dusty smells coming from your furnace are signs that your filter needs to be changed, or your ducts need to be cleaned. Those odors could also signify that your system needs a thorough, professional cleaning. However, if you're smelling rotten eggs when your furnace is on, you need to turn it off and schedule a maintenance call as soon as possible. Don't use your furnace again until you can have it looked at. The rotten egg odor you're smelling is the smell of natural gas. Using your furnace when it's leaking natural is hazardous to your health.

Your Furnace Won't Turn On

If your furnace isn't turning on, the first thing you should do is check your circuit breaker. Your furnace could have blown a circuit. Locate the circuit for your furnace and make sure it's in the "on" position. If it's not, flip it to the "on" position, and try turning your furnace on again. If it still won't turn on, there's probably an issue the emergency shut-off valve located on your furnace. This is particularly true if your furnace has been experiencing frequent troubles being turned on.

You Hear a Loud Pop

There's nothing more unnerving than hearing a loud pop when you turn your furnace on. There may be times when your furnace makes noises, including some occasional banging and clanging. Cold weather can cause your furnace to make clanging sounds. That's actually the sound of your ducts adjusting to the changing temperatures. However, if your furnace is making loud popping sounds when it fires up at the beginning of a cycle, you need to have it looked at before the weather gets much colder.

Your Registers are Coated with Soot

It's not unusual for dirt and dust to build up around your furnace registers. However, if you're noticing buildup that resembles rust or soot, you've got a problem that will require professional assistance. Rust can develop with older furnaces, and soot can build up when your furnace is emitting too much carbon monoxide. If you're seeing soot, it's time to have your furnace inspected.