Heating your home can be a hassle, but with a little preparation and knowledge of the most common heater problems, it can be a breeze. This article will discuss some of the most common heater problems in the house and what causes them.
There are many issues that can arise when your heater isn't working properly. A few of the most common are the following:
- Broken Thermostat
- Lack of Airflow from Vents
- Sudden Increase in Your Heating Bills
- Furnace Fails to Ignite
- Having Cold Spots at Home
- Producing a Burning Smell
- Blowing Cold Air
- Making Strange Noises
- Heater Not Turning On at All
Are You Struggling with Heater Problems in the House?
Broken Thermostat
One of the most common heater problems at home is a broken thermostat. This can be caused by a variety of things, including internal wiring issues, wrong placement of the thermostat, or when the thermostat is not installed properly. It can also be because of the thermostat is set to “auto” mode. If your heater is not working, also check the thermostat to see if it is turned off. Or even as simple as dead batteries, loose electrical connections, or lack of electrical power will already cause your thermostat to fail.
Lack of Airflow from Vents
If you have a central heating system in your home, you know that vents are important for circulating the air. If your vents are blocked, it can cause a number of problems with your heater. The most common problem is that your heater will have to work harder to heat your home, which can lead to higher energy bills. Additionally, a lack of airflow can cause your heater to overheat and break down. If you suspect that your vents are blocked or there are clogs in the ductwork, be sure to check them regularly and clear any debris that may be blocking them. While other factors can be blower motor issues and dirty filters.
Sudden Increase in Your Heating Bills
If you're seeing a sudden increase in your heating bills, there's a good chance that your heater is the culprit. Heaters can develop all sorts of problems over time. So if you suspect that your heater is to blame for your high bills, be sure to call a qualified technician to come and take a look.
Looking for tips to heat your home efficiently without spending too much?
What Are the Possible Reasons behind These Heater Problems in the House?
Furnace Fails to Ignite
If your furnace doesn't ignite, the first thing you should check is the pilot light. If it's out, relight it and see if that solves the problem. Or if the pilot light keeps going out, there may be a problem with the thermocouple. And if the furnace doesn’t ignite, other reasons can be an issue with the ignitor or having the wrong ignitor installed. Damage in the limit switch can also be the cause. While carbon buildup on the electronic ignition is another factor.
Having Cold Spots at Home
Other common issues with heaters include cold spots in the house or a heater that doesn't seem to be warming the home evenly. If you're experiencing either of these problems, there are a few potential causes. One possibility is that your furnace isn't sized correctly for your home. Another is that your ductwork may be leaky or not properly insulated. Whatever the cause, it's important to get it fixed as soon as possible to avoid higher energy bills and discomfort in your home.
Heater Producing a Burning Smell
If your heater is producing a burning smell, it's important to take action immediately. This can be a sign of a serious problem, such as an electrical issue. When the motor of your heater overheats, it will also create the same kind of smell. So if you're not sure what to do, call a professional heating contractor for help.
Other Heater Problems in the House That You Might Encounter
Heater Blowing Cold Air
If your heater is blowing cold air, there are a few possible reasons. The most common reason is that the pilot light has gone out. If this is the case, you'll need to relight it following the instructions in your manufacturer's manual. Another possibility is that a circuit breaker has tripped, in which case you'll need to reset it. It can also be due to a malfunction in the ignition, the furnace not receiving enough heating fuel, duct leaks, or even clogged air filters. Lastly, it can be that the thermostat is set too low. Simply turn it up a few degrees to see if that solves the problem.
Heater Making Strange Noises
Another common problem is when the furnace makes strange noises. This can be due to a build-up of dust and debris in the unit. This can also be caused by a number of different issues, including loose parts or a loose panel, problems with the motor bearing, or a build-up of debris in the system.
Heater Not Turning On at All
One of the most common heater problem is that the unit does not turn on when it should. This is often caused by an issue with the electrical connection such as a blown fuse or a tripped circuit breaker. It can also be due to incorrect thermostat settings, or either the thermostat or the heating equipment itself is not receiving power. If you suspect this is the problem, check your home's electrical panel and reset any switches that may have been tripped. If that doesn't solve the problem, you may need to call a professional to take a look at your heater.
Here are other common heating problems that you might be able to relate to.
Know the Reasons behind the Most Common Heater Problems in the House
Looking to keep your home cozy this winter? You're not alone. Many homeowners experience heater problems at some point during the colder months. And since home heating can sometimes be intimidating, it is best to have a little knowledge of the most common heater problems.
If you experience any of these heater problems in the house that you can’t handle, don't hesitate to call a professional HVAC technician to help you fix the problem. Get a free estimate or give us a call at (770) 694-6232 to schedule an appointment.
