When your heating system breaks down during the winter, it can be a scary experience. You want to get that heater working as fast as possible! But you don’t want to do any actual repairs—at least, we don’t want you to do any actual repairs. Trying to fix a central heating system if you’re not a licensed professional is risky. Even if you could successfully correct the problem, there’s always the potential for safety hazards. It’s not worth it.
However, you can try to troubleshoot your heating problems. In this blog post, we’re going to look at some troubleshooting steps for when you’ve got a faulty heater, and help you distinguish between troubleshooting and an actual repair that will require you calling for heating repair in Springfield, OR.
Troubleshooting
When your heater stops working or isn’t performing as expected, there are a few simple troubleshooting steps you can take before calling a professional. These checks can sometimes resolve minor issues or give you a better idea of what might be wrong. Let’s walk through these steps:
1. Check Your Thermostat
- Ensure It’s Set Correctly: Double-check that the thermostat is set to “heat” and that the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature.
- Inspect the Batteries: If your thermostat has batteries, they might need replacing. Weak batteries can cause the thermostat to malfunction.
- Verify the Settings: If your thermostat has a programmable feature, ensure the schedule isn’t preventing the heater from turning on.
2. Inspect the Circuit Breaker
- Reset the Breaker: Heating systems often have dedicated circuit breakers. If the breaker has tripped, reset it by turning it off and then back on.
- Check Nearby Switches: Some heaters have a switch on or near the unit. Make sure it’s turned on.
3. Look at the Air Filter
- Replace a Dirty Filter: A clogged air filter can restrict airflow and cause the heater to shut down or run inefficiently. Replacing the filter regularly can prevent these issues.
4. Check the Vents
- Clear Obstructions: Ensure all vents are open and unobstructed. Furniture, curtains, or debris blocking vents can reduce heating effectiveness.
5. Look for Pilot Light Issues (Gas Heaters Only)
- Check if It’s Lit: If your heater uses a pilot light and it’s out, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it. If the pilot won’t stay lit, it’s time to call for repairs.
When Troubleshooting Isn’t Enough
If you’ve tried these troubleshooting steps and your heater still isn’t working, it’s time to step back and call a professional. Here’s why:
- Safety First: Attempting repairs without the right knowledge can lead to electrical hazards, gas leaks, or other dangers. Your safety is always the top priority.
- Avoiding Further Damage: A DIY repair could make the problem worse, potentially leading to more expensive repairs later.
- Expert Diagnosis: Professionals can quickly pinpoint the issue and ensure it’s resolved correctly the first time.
Call Us for Heating Repairs
Troubleshooting your heater is a good first step, but when the problem requires expert attention, we’re here to help. Whether it’s a faulty thermostat, a broken part, or something more complex, our team can restore your heating system so you can stay warm and comfortable all winter long.
Contact Associated Heating and Air Conditioning, Inc. today for heating repair.