• October, 02 2023

Why your heater isn’t working properly

Heating systems develop problems for all sorts of reasons – age, failed components, poor maintenance, and more.

But first, before we blame the heating system, let’s look for simple solutions that the homeowner can handle: Is the filter clean? Are the batteries in the thermostat dead? Are the fuses, OK? Now, on to the big stuff:

Noises

Sometimes your system will send you a message – via unusually loud noises like clanging, rattling, and squealing. The rattling indicates a problem with the motor or the blower assembly. Squealing means problems with the belts or other parts.

Utility bills

If your utility bill keeps inexplicably climbing, the problem may be in your heating system. When equipment is off-kilter, the heater must work harder to keep the heat flowing.

Short Cycling

Does your heater keep going on and off?

If so, the heat exchanger may be overheating, which causes the system to shut down, only to start up again when the exchanger becomes cool. As its name implies, the heat exchanger is a key part of your system.

Uneven heat

If some rooms are warmer or cooler than others you may have problems with the ducts that deliver the air. They could have leaks or blockage.

The thermostat may have a connection problem, your doors and windows could be leaking, or, worst of all, the furnace is the wrong size or was installed improperly.

Age

Age can catch up with a furnace after 15 to 25 years. Even a well-maintained heating system will lose efficiency as wear and tear affect components.

Some warning flags that your system may need to be replaced:

✓ You have to have the system repaired more often, and the repairs are getting more costly.

✓ It takes longer to heat your house.

✓ Utility bills keep creeping up, a sign of growing inefficiency.

On the plus side, a modern heating system will be much more energy-efficient and more eco-friendly.