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Home Heating and Energy Blog

Evergreen Home Heating and Energy's mission is to make Puget Sound area homes the most energy efficient, comfortable homes in the country. Through our decades of knowledge and expertise, along with innovative and cutting-edge technologies, we believe we are the HVAC company that will make this goal a reality.

Why was my Furnace Red-Tagged & What does it mean? 

November 30, 2023

As a homeowner navigating the world of HVAC systems. You may have heard of "red tagging" or recently had your own furnace red tagged. This can be a stressful and overwhelming thing to have happen. Our hope is that this post will educate readers on what red tagging is, why a technician would red tag a furnace, and what steps homeowners should take after a red tag is issued. 

*** If your furnace has recently been red tagged and you are looking for service contact us HERE for 24/7/365 support***

What is Red Tagging?

Red tagging is a safety measure employed by HVAC technicians to indicate that a furnace or heating system has been deemed unsafe for operation. When a technician identifies a critical issue that poses a risk to the occupants or the property, they turn off your furnace and may affix a red tag to it, although it is somewhat outdated to do so.

Why Would a Furnace Get Red Tagged?

 The primary reason for red tagging is the identification of safety hazards. This could include issues such as…

  1. A cracked heat exchanger

  2. Gas leaks

  3. Inadequate ventilation

  4. Faulty Installation

all of which can lead to carbon monoxide leaks or other potentially dangerous situations.

What to Do After a Red Tag is Issued:

  1. Do Not Use the Furnace: The red tag serves as a clear warning that the furnace is unsafe for use. Do not attempt to operate the system until the necessary repairs or replacements have been made.

  2. Contact a Qualified Technician: Reach out to a licensed HVAC professional to conduct a thorough inspection and provide a detailed assessment of the issues identified in the red tag. They will offer recommendations for repairs or replacements.

  3. Consider Replacement: In some cases, the severity of the issues may warrant furnace replacement. A technician can guide you on whether repairs are sufficient or if investing in a new, more efficient system is the best course of action.

While red tagging may seem alarming, it is a crucial safety measure implemented to protect homeowners from potential hazards associated with faulty furnaces. If your technician has placed a red tag on your furnace, we would be happy to assist you by taking a second look at the system and discussing your options. Our priority is to make sure you and your family are safe and comfortable, while not breaking the bank.

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