There is nothing more frustrating than being left without heat during the chilly, winter months. Problems with heaters tend to be uncomfortable and can cause further damage if ignored. Although issues often need professional repair, it’s a good idea to understand the potential problem to make sure proper maintenance is done in the future. Consider these reasons your heater may not be working properly.
Faulty Thermostat
The thermostat is what transmits information to your system and is the first place to check when your heater is not working properly. The issue could stem from something as simple as the switch being in the wrong spot, needing new batteries or improper installation.
Dirty Air Filters
Air filters pick up debris constantly. By leaving dirty filters in the system, the heater is unable to pass air through and do its job. This can also cause a system to overheat and break down because it’s overworking itself trying to pass the air. A tell-tale sign that your filter needs replacing, besides the unit not working, is poor air quality. Dirty air filters can spread allergens around your home and noticeably worsen your symptoms. Changing the filters regularly will reduce allergens, save energy and prolong the life of your HVAC system.
Leaking Air Ducts
Regular use of your HVAC system will naturally cause parts to break or disconnect occasionally. If ducts aren’t sealed properly, air will leak out and will not reach the destination that it’s supposed to go to. If some rooms are noticeably warmer than others, or some rooms aren’t getting heated at all, chances are it’s a leak.
Clogged Drain Lines
Typically, with a heating system, water is drained out through a designated area. If the line is clogged, water will not drain where it is supposed to and can start leaking in unexpected places. This tends to result in water damage that can cause a whole host of other issues such as damaged flooring, walls, and ceilings.
There are issues that you can troubleshoot yourself, such as the thermostat not working properly. However, risky fixes with air ducts and clogged lines are better left for professionals. It is recommended to have an AC company diagnose the issue so that the problem can be resolved correctly. For heater repair, contact Star Mechanical get your heater back to tip-top shape.
