What To Check If Heater Isn’t Working?

by | Jun 23, 2023 | Heating

While the winter season brings with it a festive and cozy vibe, it also calls for the use of heaters to keep our homes warm and comfortable amidst the cold weather conditions. However, imagine waking up one day to find that your heater isn’t functioning as it should. Not only is it inconvenient, but it can also pose a risk to your health. Before you panic and call for expensive repair services, here are some things you can check if your heater isn’t working.

1. Understanding the Symptoms of a Faulty Heater in Your Home

If you’ve ever woken up to a chilly morning and turned on your heater only to realize that it’s not working, then you know how frustrating it can be. Having a malfunctioning heater can make your life uncomfortable and even put your family’s health at risk. Therefore, it’s essential to understand the signs of a faulty heater in your home so that you can take appropriate action.

One common sign of a faulty heater is that it fails to produce heat or doesn’t get hot enough. You may also notice that the temperature in your home is fluctuating or isn’t consistent throughout. Another indication that your heater may be malfunctioning is if you hear strange noises coming from it, such as banging, clanging, or hissing sounds.

Other symptoms to look out for include your heater turning on and off frequently, and it takes longer than usual for your home to heat up. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to investigate the cause of the problem and fix it as soon as possible.

In the next section, we’ll dive into the possible causes of common heater malfunctions. By understanding what causes these problems, you’ll be able to diagnose issues and fix them before they get worse.

2. Possible Causes of Common Heater Malfunctions

Understanding the potential reasons for your heater’s malfunction can help you identify and address the issue before it worsens. Here are some common causes of heater malfunctions to keep in mind:

1. Dirty Air Filters

Dirty air filters can cause your heater to overheat and turn off. This happens when the air filters block the air flow through the heat exchanger, causing it to become hotter than normal. As a result, the safety switch in your heater is triggered, turning it off. You can easily address this issue by replacing your dirty air filter with a new one regularly.

2. Malfunctioning Thermostat

Your thermostat regulates the temperature inside your home. However, if it is not calibrated correctly or it has malfunctioned, your heater may not turn on at all or may produce irregular heating patterns. If you suspect a malfunctioning thermostat, you can try replacing the batteries and recalibrating it to see if that fixes the issue.

3. Faulty Igniter

If your furnace has a pilot light, a faulty igniter can cause it to not light up. This can be caused by dirt and debris buildup, or a malfunctioning thermostat. If the igniter is not lighting up, it may be time to replace it.

4. Broken Fan Motor

The fan motor is responsible for blowing hot air through the ducts in your home. A broken fan motor can cause the heater to stop working altogether or produce inadequate heat. If your fan motor is broken, it needs to be replaced by a professional.

By knowing the , you can save yourself time and money by troubleshooting the issue yourself before calling a technician. However, if you are unsure of how to fix the problem, it’s best to seek professional help.

3. How to Inspect Your Heater for Signs of Wear and Tear

Before you decide to troubleshoot your heater or call for professional help, it is important to inspect your heater for signs of wear and tear. This step-by-step guide will help you determine the issue with your heater and decide on the next course of action.

Step 1: Check for Obvious Damage
The first step is to visually inspect your heater for any obvious damage. Look for cracks in the casing, frayed wires, and loose connections. Also, check the filters to see if they are dirty or clogged. A dirty filter can reduce the air flow and put a strain on the heater, causing it to work harder than it should.

Step 2: Check the Thermostat
If your heater is running but not producing enough heat, it may be a problem with the thermostat. Check to see if the thermostat is set to the desired temperature and if the batteries are working correctly. You can also try cleaning the thermostat to remove any dust and debris that may be affecting its performance.

Step 3: Check the Pilot Light
The pilot light is a small flame that should always be lit when the heater is on. If the pilot light is not lit, it’s likely that there is a problem with the ignition system. Try relighting the pilot light or consult your owner’s manual for instructions on how to relight it.

Step 4: Check the Fans
If you have a central heating system, check the fans to see if they are working properly. Turn on the heat and make sure that air is coming out of the vents. If you feel weak airflow, it may be due to a fan malfunction or duct blockage.

By following these simple steps, you should be able to identify any issues with your heater and determine whether you need to take further action. Remember, if you are uncomfortable with troubleshooting your heater, it’s always best to call in a professional for help.

4. Steps to Troubleshoot Your Heater Before Calling a Technician

Before you pick up the phone and call a heating technician for your seemingly broken heater, there are a few things you can check yourself. Many of the common heater malfunctions can be fixed with a few steps of troubleshooting and simple maintenance. Here are the steps you can take to troubleshoot your heater:

Step 1: Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is usually the first place to look when your heater isn’t working properly. Make sure the thermostat is turned on and set to the desired temperature. If you have a programmable thermostat, check that it is programmed correctly. If your thermostat runs on batteries, check that they are not dead and need replacing. If your thermostat is not functioning properly, it can cause your heater to turn off or on at the wrong times.

Step 2: Check the Air Filter

The air filter in your heater keeps the air in your home clean and free from dust and debris. A dirty or clogged air filter can cause problems with your heater, including reduced airflow and overheating. To check the air filter, turn off your heater and remove the filter. Hold it up to a light source to see if it is clogged with dirt and debris. If it is dirty, clean or replace the filter as soon as possible.

Step 3: Check the Pilot Light

If your heater runs on gas, it may have a pilot light that needs to be lit manually. Check that the pilot light is lit, and if it’s not, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to light it. If the pilot light won’t stay lit after you light it, there may be a problem with the gas supply or the pilot light itself.

By following these simple steps, you can troubleshoot your heater and possibly avoid the need for a costly repair service. If your heater still isn’t working after checking these steps, it’s time to call a professional technician for help.

5. Common Heater Repair Solutions and When to Seek Professional Help

Heaters are a crucial part of any home during the cold season. When a heater malfunctions, the entire home is affected, and this can cause discomfort and sometimes even health problems. In most cases, it’s possible to repair a malfunctioning heater yourself or with the help of a qualified technician. But just like with any other appliance, it’s important to know when to seek professional help.

Common Heater Repair Solutions

The following are some common heater repair solutions you can try before calling a technician.

  • Clean Your Filters: Dirty filters can cause your heater to overheat, shut down or produce insufficient heat. Clean or replace your filters regularly to avoid such issues.
  • Check Your Thermostat: The thermostat is responsible for controlling the temperature of your home. Make sure it’s working correctly, and set it to the right temperature.
  • Inspect Your Ductwork: Leaky ducts can cause the heat to escape, causing some parts of your home to be colder than others. Check your ductwork for leaks and seal them using duct tape or mastic sealant.

When to Seek Professional Help

While some heater malfunctions can be easily fixed, others require the attention of a qualified technician. Here are some signs that indicate you need professional help.

  • No Heat: If your heater produces no heat at all, it’s a clear indication that there’s a problem that requires professional attention.
  • Loud Noises: Unusual sounds like banging or rattling noises coming from your heater can indicate faulty components that require professional repair.
  • Strange Smells: Foul smells coming from your heater can indicate various issues, including gas leaks that require immediate attention from a professional.

In conclusion, a heater that isn’t working well can be frustrating, but most problems are solvable with a little effort. However, if you notice any of the above signs, it’s best to contact a qualified technician to avoid any potential health or safety hazards. Regular maintenance and inspection are also essential to keep your heater functioning optimally and avoid future malfunctions.

People Also Ask

1. Why isn’t my heater blowing hot air?

There could be several reasons why your heater is not blowing hot air, such as a faulty thermostat, clogged air filters, malfunctioning pilot light, or low coolant levels.

2. How do I know if my heater needs to be repaired?

The most common signs that your heater needs repairs include unusual noises, foul smells, insufficient heat, high energy bills, and poor air quality. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s best to have a professional inspect your system.

3. How often should I have my heater serviced?

It’s recommended to have your heater serviced annually to prevent breakdowns and ensure optimal performance. Regular maintenance includes checking for any leaks, cleaning ducts, testing electrical connections, and inspecting the blower belt and fan.

4. Can I fix my heater myself?

While some heater problems are simple enough for homeowners to fix, such as replacing air filters or relighting a pilot light, it’s not recommended to attempt complex repairs on your own. Without proper training and equipment, DIY repairs can be dangerous and may even make the problem worse.

5. Should I replace or repair my heater?

The decision to replace or repair your heater depends on several factors, including the age of the unit, the extent of the damage, the cost of repairs, and your energy bills. In general, if your heater is over 10-15 years old and requires costly repairs, it may be more cost-effective to replace it with a newer, more efficient model.

Conclusion

If your heater isn’t working, it can be a frustrating and uncomfortable experience, especially during the colder months. However, by identifying the problem and taking prompt action, you can avoid costly repairs and ensure optimal indoor comfort. Be sure to regularly maintain your heating system and seek professional help if you notice any issues.