When winter strikes and your heater malfunctions, it can be a major inconvenience. However, not all heating issues require a call to the HVAC professionals. There are several troubleshooting steps you can take to address common problems and restore warmth to your home. In this guide, we’ll look into seven basic tips for fixing your heater like a true professional.
One of the first things to check when your heater isn’t working efficiently is the airflow through your vents. Take a walk through your home and inspect each vent to ensure it’s not blocked by furniture, curtains, or other items. Blocked vents can disturb the flow of warm air, leading to uneven heating and reduced system performance. By clearing any obstructions, you can allow heat to circulate freely throughout your home, ensuring every room receives the warmth it needs to stay comfortable during the winter months.
A dirty or clogged furnace filter can wreak havoc on your heating system, causing it to work harder than necessary and potentially leading to a shutdown. Regularly changing the furnace filter, ideally, every one to three months, is important for maintaining proper airflow and system efficiency. A clean filter traps dust, dirt, and other debris, preventing them from entering your HVAC system and circulating throughout your home.
Your thermostat plays a huge role in regulating the temperature of your home, but many homeowners overlook its potential for energy savings. Programming your thermostat to align with your daily schedule can help you maximize comfort while minimizing energy usage and heating costs. Consider setting lower temperatures when you’re away or asleep, and raising them when you’re home and active.
Even gas or oil-burning heating systems rely on electricity to power certain components, so it’s important to check your home’s circuit breakers if your heater isn’t working properly. Look for any tripped breakers and reset them if necessary, making sure that your heating system has access to the power it needs to function correctly. You can also inspect the furnace switch to make sure it hasn’t been accidentally turned off, as this can also cause your heater to stop working. By verifying the electrical connections, you can troubleshoot common issues and potentially avoid the need for professional repairs.
If you have an older furnace with a pilot light, relighting the flame can sometimes solve ignition-related problems. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to relight the pilot light safely, ensuring that it burns steadily and evenly. On the other hand, newer furnaces utilize electric igniters to ignite the burner, eliminating the need for a constant flame. If your furnace has an electric igniter, check to ensure it’s functioning correctly and replace it if necessary.
If your heater isn’t producing any heat, it may be due to a lack of power. Start by checking the general power switch on your furnace to ensure it’s in the “on” position. If the switch is on but your heater still isn’t working, find your home’s breaker panel and look for the switch labeled “heat” or “furnace.” Toggle the switch off and then back on to reset it, and monitor your heater for signs of improvement. If the issue persists, there may be a more significant problem with your heating system that requires professional attention.
Don’t forget about the outside unit of your heating system when performing maintenance tasks. Leaves, dirt, and debris can accumulate around the unit, obstructing airflow and impeding its performance. Regularly inspect the outdoor unit and remove any debris that may have accumulated, especially during the fall when leaves are abundant. You should also trim back any vegetation that could interfere with the unit’s operation.
During the heating season, your furnace can discharge several gallons of water daily. If the drain lines become clogged with sediment or mold, the furnace may stop functioning.
If you notice the drain hose is dirty, detach it and fill it with a mixture of bleach and water. Let it sit for a few minutes, then flush it out thoroughly.
Read to Fix Your Heater? just Contact Us
Using these seven basic tips, homeowners can deal with common heating issues with confidence, making sure there is uninterrupted warmth throughout the winter months. While some problems may require professionals, proactive maintenance, and troubleshooting can help prevent costly repairs and downtime. Remember, a little DIY effort can go a long way in keeping your heating system running smoothly when you need it most.
Schedule a free quote to learn how you can get a $10,000 rebate and 0% interest financing.
Start your savings today!
