Furnace Maintenance Checklist Before Chicago Winters Hit With Chicago winters often bringing sudden cold snaps and long stretches of freezing weather, furnace problems that seem “small” in fall can become big emergencies in mid-January. A short maintenance routine now can reduce the risk of unexpected shutdowns, help your system run efficiently, and support more consistent heating for your home. 1) Confirm the basics: power, thermostat, and airflow Start with the components you can quickly verify. Check that the furnace has proper power and that the thermostat is set correctly for heating mode. Replace disposable thermostat batteries if applicable, and confirm the fan setting is appropriate for your system (many households use auto/auto-circulate options rather than continuous fan). Next, inspect visible vents and registers. Make sure supply vents aren’t blocked by furniture, rugs, or stored items. Blocked airflow can cause the furnace to overheat o ... Read ...
Noisy Pipes: What the Sounds Mean and When to Call a Plumber Unusual sounds coming from your pipes can be more than an annoyance. Some noises point to simple fixable causes like air in the lines or loose hardware, while others can indicate a problem that may worsen—such as a failing pressure regulator, worn cartridges, or a blockage in the drain system. Here’s a practical guide to common pipe sounds, what they typically mean, and when you should stop troubleshooting and contact a licensed plumber. Hissing or whistling A steady hissing or high-pitched whistle often comes from water flowing through a partially closed valve, a worn faucet cartridge, or a leak in a supply line. In some homes, it may also relate to water pressure that’s too high—especially if the sound increases when multiple fixtures run. Try turning the fixture off and back on, and confirm the shutoff valves are fully open. If the noise persists at the same int ... Read more »...