Though we are still technically in the beginning of winter, it is a must to have an efficient heating system to keep your home warm during the cold months.
But the heater can fail at the most inopportune time and leave you cold and looking for a fix. When your heater breaks down you will want to act quickly and efficiently so that you can get back to enjoying a warm and cozy home.
Day & Night Plumbing has established itself as a reliable HVAC Repair Service that can help with solving heater problems quickly and effectively. In this blog we’ll provide a rundown on what to do if your heater stops functioning, and how Day & Night Plumbing can assist in restoring your comfort and peace of mind.
Initial Troubleshooting Steps When Your Heater Stops Working
One of the most annoying things that can happen in the middle winter is for your heater to stop working. Before you begin to panic or assume the worst, you should first try some basic troubleshooting to see if you can spot any problems and if a call to a professional is in order.
Here is a more detailed description of the first things to do when your heater isn’t working:
Check the Thermostat
Your thermostat is the brain for your heating system, so if you’re having issues with your heater, it’s the first place you should look. Make sure you check that the thermostat is set to the desired temperature and that the system is on “heat” mode to begin with.
Heating systems can also malfunction due to incorrect settings on the thermostat or dead batteries, so always make sure the thermostat is on and functioning first .
Also review for programming bugs or overlaps that could be causing the heater not to run as expected. Make any necessary adjustments, and see if the heater responds appropriately.
Inspect the Air Filter
One of the biggest strainers of the heating system and restrictor of airflow is a dirty or clogged air filter. Resulting in less efficiency and possible malfunction.
If that is the case, find the air filter in your HVAC system, which is usually in the air handler or furnace, and check for visible dirt, dust, and debris on the filter.
If the air filter does look dirty or clogged, install a new filter and make sure it is the right size and has the same MERV rating. Regularly cleaning out the air filter helps to keep the air clean in the home while ensuring better airflow throughout the heating system which results in optimal performance and longevity of the system.
Inspect the Circuit Breaker
Because heating systems are commonly affected by electrical problems, make sure to inspect the circuit breaker or fuse box for your heater. Find or determine which the circuit breaker for the heating system is and check that it is on.
If it is in the OFF position or appears tripped, turn it OFF and then back ON to reset.
Also check the fuse box for blown fuses and replace with the correct amperage fuse. The circuit breaker can be reset or the blown fuses can be replaced which will reconnect electricity to the heater if the problem was related to a power disruption.
Check for Obstructions
Restrictions to airflow can affect your heating systems ability to heat your house effectively and or evenly. Walk through each room and check to see that vents, registers, and air intake grilles are not obstructed by furniture, curtains, or anything else.
Also, verify that outside vents and exhaust outlets are free and clear of debris, snow or ice. Blocked air flow will be stressful to the heater, resulting in overheating or shut down and should be avoided.
Common Signs to Look for When Your Heater Stops Working
It is important for homeowners to know the symptoms of common heater problems so they can catch them early and avoid additional damage or discomfort.
The following is a more detailed list of each of these signs of a troubled heater that every homeowner should be on the lookout for.
- No heat
Perhaps the most apparent indication of a heater problem is if the system will turn on but does not produce warm air. This may point to a number of problems including a:
- Broken thermostat
- Malfunctioning heating elements
- Clogged vents
- Defective blower motor
If the vents are blowing cold air, the first step is to check the thermostat to ensure it is set correctly. If the thermostat seems operational but the heater continues blowing cold air, it is best to call Day & Night Plumbing for professional assessment and repairs. We can determine the actual problem and fix your heating accordingly.
Unequal Heating
Another sign of problems with the heater is an inconsistent temperature throughout the house, with some rooms or areas being markedly colder than others. Possible explanations for this difference in temperature distribution include:
- Leaky ducts
- Reduced airflow
- Flawed thermostat
- Incorrect sizing of the system
Homeowners with hot and cold spots should first make sure that air vents and registers in all rooms are open and unobstructed. They might also try changing the thermostat settings to see if that fixes the problem.
But if this is a continuing or worsening issue, you should plan to have Day & Night Plumbing service the appliance.
We can give the whole heating system a thorough inspection to ensure there are no underlying problems that are causing the heating to be uneven and recommend appropriate repairs or adjustments that may need to be made in order to return the home to balanced heating.
Funny Sounds or Smells
Strange sounds or smells from the heating unit could point to mechanical issues, bad components, or ventilation issues that should be addressed immediately.
Banging, rattling, screeching or grinding noises are common in all types of heaters and may indicate issues related to:
- Blower assemblage
- Assembly fan
- Heat-exchanger
Likewise, foul or musty smells emitting from the vents or furnace unit may signify mold growth, overheating components, or combustion issues. Failing to heed these warning signs will only result in more damage to the heating system or indoor air quality that may jeopardize the health of those inside.
Homeowners should shut their heating system off and call Day & Night Plumbing if they notice any unusual smells or sounds coming from it. Most of the time our technicians can identify the cause behind the noise or odors and take the necessary corrective actions to get the system operating safely and properly again.
Why Choose Day & Night Plumbing for Heater Repairs
There is no worse feeling than having your heater break down and not knowing who to trust for HVAC repair service to help get your home back to a comfortable temperature. For these reasons and more, Day & Night Plumbing has become the go-to for heater repairs for countless homeowners.
Here’s why homeowners should contact Day & Night Plumbing for heater repair:
Expertise and Experience
Day & Night Plumbing employs very experienced and expert technicians who can troubleshoot and identify just about any problem with your heater. All of our techs are trained and certified regularly to ensure they are up to date with the latest technologies and advances in the HVAC repair industry.
Our technicians have a decade of on-the-ground experience, ready to diagnose and resolve any difficult heater issues.
Prompt and Reliable Service
Day & Night Plumbing also knows that heater issues are an urgent matter, particularly when temperatures drop and the inside of a home becomes a place where comfort is essential. This is also the reason we offer quick response times, flexible appointments and reliable service.
From small heating problems to full breakdowns, Day & Night Plumbing will respond timely to help you bring warmth back to your home.
Quality Workmanship and Guarantees
We are proud to quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. When it comes to heater repair, you can trust that your HVAC system is in good hands with Day & Night Plumbing. We maintain a professional and high craftsman quality standard, using all premium- quality parts and materials so that our repairs last and perform at their best.
And your peace of mind. Guarantees and warranties come with everything we do.
Comprehensive Heating Solutions
From small heating problems, like thermostat trouble or a dirty air filter, to a catastrophic heating system breakdown requiring extensive repairs or replacement, Day & Night Plumbing has heating solutions to fit your needs and budget.
For instance, our technicians are experts at performing comprehensive checks on your heating system to determine the cause of failure and get it back to functional condition.
Transparent Pricing and Honest Recommendations
At Day & Night Plumbing, we are up front with pricing and options. We offer up front pricing for our services with no surprises or hidden fees.
Our technicians will take the time to tell you what’s wrong, what your options are for repair, and give you frank advice according to your budget and desires. Our solutions are focused on you and what we feel is best for you.