The 8 Most Common Heater Issues — and What You Can Do
The Texas Panhandle has seen its share of frigid winter weather. Your heating can work overtime to keep up and infrequent issues can become a big problem. Knowing when to seek the help of a local HVAC technician can be the difference between a cozy winter and a heating system failure. Here are the most common heater issues you’ll come across and how a professional can help solve them.
1. Thermostat Issues
A faulty thermostat can send incorrect signals to your heater, turning it on or off at the wrong time. The thermostat might be the issue if your heater won’t turn on or off, the programmed settings reset themselves, or the room temperature and thermostat temperature don’t match.
2. A Blown Fuse
Suspect a blown fuse if your heating system stops working, emits a burning odor, or fails to produce heat or hot air.
3. Pilot Light Problems
Carbon, dirt, and dust can clog the gas tube or gas valve and coat the thermocouple. This buildup limits gas flow and can cause the pilot light to go out frequently, fail to stay lit, or lead to unusual noises like your heater clicking but not turning on. Have your pilot light cleaned regularly to avoid these issues.
4. Malfunctioning Blower Motor
A blower problem may be to blame if the airflow is weak or absent, your system is overheating, you hear strange noises coming from your furnace, or you experience a spike in your Xcel energy bill.
5. Blocked Vents or Ducts
Dust, dirt, foreign objects, and furniture can block your vents and ducts, reducing airflow. This causes the heating system to overwork as it tries to keep warm air moving throughout your home.
6. Dirty Air Filter
A dirty, clogged air filter will interrupt the airflow to the furnace. A lack of airflow can decrease the efficiency of the heater and put excess strain on its components. Replace your filter at least once every three months to keep the air flowing.
7. Wear and Tear
The average furnace lasts 15 to 20 years. Without regular maintenance and cleaning, the daily wear and tear can lead to component failure and the need for a replacement. Extend the service life of your heating system by following the manufacturer’s recommended heating maintenance and service schedule.
8. Size and Install Quality
A poorly installed or incorrectly sized heating system can also contribute to furnace issues. Improperly sized furnaces lead to premature wear and higher heating costs. Oversized systems have shorter peak run times with long warm-ups and cool-downs. Small systems work overtime to try to meet your home’s heating needs.
An improperly installed heating system will lead to damaged components, higher heating bills, and a possible fire risk.
Let Amarillo Air Conditioning Help You With Your Common Heater Issues
An HVAC technician knows how to find the right heater for your home. They can calculate the correct size and help you choose the right type and model for your needs. The NATE-certified experts at Amarillo Air Conditioning can help with repairs, maintenance, or selecting and installing a new heating system. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.
CONTACT Amarillo Air Conditioning, Inc.
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