No one wants to be without heat this winter, but Heater Problems are common when turning on your heating system for the first time in six months. If you want to ensure that your heat will work without issue throughout the winter, there are some easy maintenance steps you can follow that will not only keep your heat on, but will also extend the life of your furnace.
However, not every heater problem is easy to fix. If you notice weird smells or noises coming from your furnace or heat pump, call the professional technicians at Thiele to get your unit fixed fast.
My Heater Isn’t Working
Just because your heat doesn’t kick on right away doesn’t mean you need to have your whole system replaced. Start by finding out how old your furnace or heat pump is. Most furnaces last 10 to 20 years, so if your furnace is less than 10 years old – but is not working – we may be able to provide an easy fix.
If you’re having common heating problems, here are some things to check out before calling for help. First, see if you need to replace the batteries in your thermostat. Make sure that your thermostat is set to “heat.” Second, check your circuit breaker box and gas line. Make sure gas is flowing to the furnace and that the breaker hasn’t been tripped.
If you have a heat pump and you’re not getting any heat – or enough heat – throughout your home, inspect the pump for debris, and confirm the fan is spinning. If it’s not, give it a push with a stick to see if it will start up. Never put your fingers in the fan.
Regular Furnace Maintenance Can Prevent Heater Problems This Winter
Keeping up with regular maintenance not only ensures that your heat will come on every winter, but you’ll also extend the life of your furnace. Most common heating problems are a result of a lack of attention and regular maintenance. If these heating problems continue to be ignored, then it could cause more damage to your furnace. You might face expensive repair bills or need to replace your furnace. Here are some easy maintenance tips you can do yourself to keep your heat on all winter long.
- Change your filters regularly. Changing your air filter every 90 days is a good idea to keep your HVAC system clean and remove dirt and debris and allergens from circulating in your vents. Clogged air filters cause your furnace to work harder, which increases wear and tear on the unit. Changing a dirty air filter will improve the airflow in your home.
- Upgrade your thermostat. Changing your thermostat batteries regularly is a way to make sure there’s always constant communication between your furnace and your thermostat.
- Clean around your furnace and vents. Furnaces tend to live in dusty places, and that dust can also get into the furnace. Vacuuming or sweeping around the area regularly will keep your furnace healthy. The dust on your floor often makes it into your vents and into your HVAC system, too. Keeping your house clean is good for your furnace and the air quality in your home.
- Check your ductwork for leaks. Leaky ductwork is how conditioned air escapes. Have your ducts inspected, and have an HVAC technician seal up any leaks or cracks.
- Stay on top of yearly maintenance. Having your furnace inspected every year with a seasonal maintenance agreement from Thiele Heating & Air Conditioning can ensure your system is current and in good health. We’ll set up seasonal inspections and deep cleanings so you’ll always have a well-functioning system.
When to Call a Professional Technician for Repairs
Unfortunately, even if you are very diligent in your heating system maintenance, there’s still a chance you will need repairs now and again. If you notice any of these issues, call the professional technicians at Thiele right away:
- Odors and smells coming from your furnace like burning plastic.
- Noises coming from your central heating unit like squeaking, grinding, and rattling
- Inconsistent temperatures from room to room
- Your heater constantly turns on and off, known as “short cycling”
- You’ve tried all the maintenance tips from above, but your energy bills are still very high
Call Thiele to Solve Your Common Furnace Problems Today
Don’t be left out in the cold. If you are experiencing common furnace problems, then you need to call Thiele Heating & Air Conditioning to get warm again fast. Contact us today for a service call, and an HVAC professional will come to your home and take a look at any issues that are causing your heating system problems. Common problems with your furnace are no match for the heating and air conditioning experts at Thiele!