Heating emergencies can arise unexpectedly, particularly during the coldest months of winter. Freezing temperatures strain your heating system, making winter the most common time for problems. This guide will walk you through steps to take, things to check, and what you can attempt to resolve the issue before seeking professional help.
Start With Your Thermostat
It’s always best to start with the simplest potential problems when troubleshooting a heating issue. Check the thermostat first if your heating system suddenly stops working or fails to start. Like other components of your HVAC system, thermostats can wear out over time. It’s also possible that the thermostat has been set incorrectly.
Start by ensuring the thermostat has power. Without power, it won’t be able to signal the heating system to start. Next, verify that the fan mode is set to Auto. If the fan is set to On, it will run continuously, even when your heating system isn’t operating, causing cool air to blow from your vents.
In addition, double-check the time settings and any programmed schedules. Sometimes, a programmed setting may prevent the system from operating as expected.
Finally, consider whether the unit is old enough to warrant a replacement. Thermostats generally last 15 to 20 years or about as long as an air conditioner, furnace, or heat pump. A professional can replace your thermostat to get your system operating as it should.
Look for a Tripped Circuit Breaker
If your thermostat isn’t receiving power or your heating system isn’t starting, ensure the system is still receiving electricity. Heating system circuits can trip due to power surges following an outage or a malfunctioning component drawing too much current.
If you find a circuit breaker has tripped, you can reset it by flipping the switch back to the On position. If the breaker trips again, it’s a sign that there’s an underlying issue within the system that requires attention.
In this case, contacting a professional HVAC technician for further investigation is important. Never keep resetting the breaker, as this can increase the risk of electrical fires or damage to your heating system.
Check the Shutoff Switch
Every heating system is equipped with a master shutoff switch, typically resembling a standard light switch and located near the air handler. This switch is a safety feature, allowing you to quickly disconnect power to your system during maintenance, emergencies, or troubleshooting. It stops the flow of electricity, helping to prevent potential electrical hazards.
In some cases, restoring power to your heating system could be as simple as flipping the switch back to the On position. If you had difficulty locating the shutoff switch, it’s a good idea to inform household members about its location and purpose, so they know what to do in an emergency.
Inspect Your Air Filter
HVAC filters prevent dirt and debris from entering your heating system and causing damage to its internal parts. They also play an essential role in maintaining indoor air quality by capturing airborne contaminants that would otherwise recirculate through your living spaces. However, airflow through your system can be restricted when it becomes clogged. Sometimes, this causes your system to overheat and trigger the limit switch. This switch turns your heater off to prevent fire hazards and damage to your system. Replacing your system’s filter with a fresh one after your system cools down may resolve the issue.
Experts recommend changing your filter at least every three months. However, you may need to replace yours more often due to factors like how many people live in your house and if you have pets. Increased activity in your household during the holidays, such as cooking and having guests over, can also cause your filter to clog faster. Many homeowners inspect their filters monthly to determine when they need attention.
Check Your Ignition System
Ignition systems in fuel-burning furnaces can fail over time, preventing the furnace from starting. Older furnaces often use a pilot light. Alternatively, newer models typically rely on electric ignition systems, like hot surface ignitors. These components are critical for igniting the fuel, but they can become dirty with use and require periodic maintenance. Hot surface ignitors, in particular, can burn out and may need replacement before the furnace itself reaches the end of its lifespan.
To check the ignition system, locate the small observation window on your furnace that allows you to view the burner chamber. Look through this window as you attempt to start your heating system. If your furnace has a pilot light, confirm whether it’s lit. For systems with a hot surface ignitor, look for a glowing element that signals it’s functioning correctly. If neither the pilot light ignites nor the ignitor glows, the issue could stem from the ignition system itself, an electrical problem, or a faulty sensor preventing the ignition process.
If you suspect an ignition problem, it’s best to contact a professional HVAC technician. They can accurately diagnose the issue and perform the necessary furnace repairs to restore your heating system safely.
Clogged Condensate Drain
Heat pumps and high-efficiency furnaces produce moisture while heating your home. This moisture collects in a drain pan and then drains away through a condensate line. Over time, the line can become clogged with dust, dirt, mildew, and other debris.
If your drain line has become clogged, it may have triggered your system’s float switch and turned your system off. This switch activates to prevent water damage to your home and heating system. To clear a clog, you can use a simple solution of equal parts warm water and distilled vinegar. Pour the solution into the drain line to help dissolve buildup and flush out debris.
Keeping the condensate drain clear is an important part of ensuring your heating system operates smoothly and efficiently, especially during periods of heavy use. If the problem persists despite cleaning, it’s best to contact an HVAC technician to assess the issue and address any underlying causes.
Check Your Blower
The blower is the component of your heating system and is responsible for circulating air throughout your home. If your heating system isn’t working correctly, it’s worth checking whether its motor functions as it should. To do this, set your thermostat’s fan mode to On instead of Auto. This should prompt the blower to run continuously, independent of the heating cycle.
Once activated, check if there is air coming out of your vents. If there isn’t, the issue may lie with the blower or the thermostat’s ability to send the appropriate signal. If the blower does start, pay attention to any unusual sounds. High-pitched squealing or grinding noises could indicate worn or failing bearings, while other irregular noises might suggest an alignment issue.
If you notice any problems, it’s best to turn off the system and contact a qualified HVAC technician to inspect and repair the blower assembly. Continuing to run a malfunctioning blower can lead to more extensive damage and higher repair costs.
Contact Your Local Professionals
At Kulacz & Sons Heating & Cooling, Inc., we have served the residents of Peotone, IL and the surrounding areas since 1979. We install, maintain, and repair heating systems and air conditioners. Additionally, we can help with all your ductwork needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced technicians.
