If you’re cold and your heater isn’t working, it can be inconvenient and downright frustrating. We care about your home comfort, so we’ve created this guide to help you troubleshoot your system so you can ditch the shivers, shed a layer or two, and get back to normal.
Read below to see what could be wrong with your unit and how to fix it.
Simple fixes and early troubleshooting
Before you call in a professional, here are some things to check when you first start troubleshooting your system:
#1. It’s just the thermostat settings
Incorrect thermostat settings are a common yet often overlooked reason why heating systems fail to provide the necessary warmth. We often get calls from homeowners who mistakenly set their thermostats to “Cool” instead of “Heat”, or the AM/PM settings are mixed up, causing the system to run at the wrong times.
To quickly test if the thermostat is the issue, try increasing the temperature by 5 degrees higher than your current setting. If your heating system kicks on and starts running, the problem might have been a simple setting mistake.
However, if adjusting the temperature doesn’t get your system running, it could indicate a need for new batteries, cleaning, or potentially a malfunction within the unit itself. If you’ve replaced the batteries and cleaned the inside of your unit, consult with a professional technician to repair your thermostat.
#2. Your air filter needs replacing or cleaning
A clogged or dirty furnace filter can often wreak havoc on your HVAC system. Cleaning or replacing your filter isn’t difficult, but neglecting this simple maintenance task can severely impact your system’s efficiency and degrade indoor air quality.
Homeowners should regularly replace or clean their furnace filters to ensure optimal performance and healthy living conditions.
#3. Make sure the vents are open and unobstructed
Blocked or closed ventilation vents can be an annoying issue, often misleading you into worrying your heating system has failed. Regularly inspect and ensure that vents are open and free from obstructions, aiding in the efficient distribution of warmth throughout your home.
#4. It could be a power source issue
Often, the comfort of your home and family hinges on simple yet overlooked details, such as whether your heating system is properly powered. Ensure your system is connected properly and check if the circuit breaker has tripped.
A frequently tripped breaker might suggest that there are too many appliances connected to a single circuit. In this case, you’ll need the expertise of a professional technician or electrician to safely switch things around to resolve the issue.
Experienced homeowners can try these
If you’ve dealt with HVAC issues on your own before and feel comfortable, you can try these troubleshooting steps. If not, ask an expert.
#5. Your system needs to be reset
While the simple solution, “Plug it out, and plug it back in again,” doesn’t always work, there are times when all your unit needs is a little reboot.
It’s essential, though, to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when performing a reset to avoid damaging the system. This might involve disconnecting the unit from power or toggling the designated breaker, often labeled “Heat” or “HVAC”. If you’re unsure, consult the manual to ensure the reset is done correctly and safely to restore heat.
#6. Check your gas valve
A gas furnace without fuel is like a car without gas – it simply won’t run. Make sure the main gas valve at the meter is in the ON position, allowing gas to flow to the furnace as its primary heat source. This simple check can sometimes be the quick fix needed to restore warmth to your home.
#7. Make sure your pilot light is lit
In older furnace models, the pilot light is a tiny fire that ignites the main burner — in other words, it’s essential for the heating process. If this light goes out, the furnace can’t produce heat. If you’re comfortable doing so, carefully follow your furnace’s manual to safely relight the pilot light, ensuring the fire is maintained for continuous warmth.
Leave it to the professionals to fix
While some issues can be solved with a little elbow grease and DIY, others should be left to a professional technician. If after trying all the things we listed above, your heater still isn’t working, contact an expert, like the ones at Anderson Air.
#8. Old, worn-out, or malfunctioning components
Worn-out or malfunctioning components can significantly impair your heating system’s effectiveness, leading to discomfort in homes during cold seasons.
Reliable repair services, equipped with the necessary spare parts and knowledgeable technicians, can swiftly restore your system’s functionality. Addressing these issues promptly ensures that your heating system runs efficiently, keeping your home warm and reducing the risk of unexpected breakdowns.
#9. There could be a blockage or leak in the ductwork
Blocked or leaky ductwork not only impedes your heating system’s ability to warm your home efficiently but can also cause annoying noises and inconsistent temperatures. Regular cleaning and inspection can prevent such issues.
If you do encounter odd sounds or suspect something is amiss with your duct, contact a pro technician to address the blockage or leak.
#10. Your unit is the wrong size for your home
An incorrectly sized heating unit can lead to numerous issues, including inadequate heating or excessive energy consumption. This is another problem that is best left to the pros, like the team at Anderson Air.
With specialized tools to diagnose the problem, our experienced technicians can evaluate your current installation. They will then provide a tailored solution, ensuring your home is equipped with a properly sized unit. For peace of mind, we offer a comprehensive quote before any work is started, guaranteeing transparency and satisfaction.
Anderson Air: Simple solutions for your comfort
When trying to keep your home warm and comfortable during the chillier months, a reliable service provider is not just an option but a necessity. As a beacon of trusted service in northwest Arkansas, Anderson Air is committed to providing efficient and affordable solutions.
Our team understands the importance of a good heating system and is dedicated to offering unparalleled service to our customers. Whether you’re facing a simple fix or need comprehensive diagnostics and repairs, Anderson Air is a call away.
Trust us to keep your home cozy and your heating systems running smoothly. For reliable heating solutions, book an appointment with Anderson Air today and experience the peace of mind that comes with partnering with a trusted service provider in Arkansas.
