Suppose you’ve tried everything, from fixing blown fuses to changing your thermostat batteries; but you still can’t figure out what’s the problem. In that case, you may need to call a Yorktown heating company for professional HVAC services. This blog will discuss the signs you need to know if your heater isn’t working before you make the call to a plumber.
It is best to maintain your system before the cold hits; here’s a checklist on what you can do to ensure the heater is working.
Checking the Thermostat
The thermostat is the control center of your heating system. If the screen is blank, the battery is likely dead and needs to be changed. You may also need to check the wiring connecting the thermostat to the furnace, in case it’s not responding. An electric tape will come in handy. Replacing a blown fuse or turning on the circuit breaker is also a simple way to ensure you’re doing everything on your part.
Ensure the gas valve is on before turning on the thermostat, and then set it to ‘heat’ and wait to see if the furnace turns on. If you’re unsure about whether the gas is the issue, calling a Yorktown heating company for a plumber is .
Furnace Power Switch
You need to check the furnace’s power switch and make sure it is turned on, and the circuit breaker has not tripped. Look for any blown fuses in the main panel. If you’re not familiar with electrical work, it’s better for your own safety to call a professional.
There is also a safety switch in the furnace, which may turn off if it detects any gas leakage. Is this is the case, get it checked by a professional.
Set the thermostat to heat at a temperature that starts the furnace. Wait for the furnace to start up, and if nothing happens, it’s time to check the filter and motor.
The safety switch can also turn off the furnace if it is overloaded with dirt. If you turn on the motor and nothing happens, then the motor is likely burned and needs to be replaced. A faulty motor may also point to a cracked heat exchanger, which is dangerous and should be replaced immediately by a technician.
You may also want to check your furnace for any mold due to poor insulation or incorrect ductwork, which exposes it to moisture. Regularly changing air filters will help keep the system clean. However, do get an expert plumber’s opinion. They can help diagnose the problem and also give you maintenance advice.
Air Filters and Ducts
Try changing your air filters if the heat isn’t coming out. They need to be replaced after every few months or so. Failure to do so can result in accumulated gunk that may affect the furnace’s performance and dust on the heat exchanger. If you can’t see through them, it is time to replace them.
Vents with inefficient ductwork often leak. These leakages can increase your electricity bills. Ensure the air vents aren’t covered or blocked by any object and inspect them by looking for gaps between branch points. You also need to ensure air registers are covered by curtains or furniture.
If you can’t find the blockage, get a plumber to come and do a thorough look-through.
Debris
Though it sounds like a matter-of-fact solution, dirt and debris can mess up your heating system. You need to check for debris at multiple locations and not just the air filters. Turn off your system and then inspect your chimney’s exhaust flue and clear out any garbage there.
You can also disassemble your ductwork and check for any blockages and leaks due to faulty ductwork. Clear away any dirt, leaves, or ice you find in the furnace, exhaust vents, or pipes.
Flame Sensors
Flame sensors are found in modern heating systems, which regulate the gas when the heater is on. Furnaces may short cycle frequently or keep turning off if the flame sensor isn’t working correctly. A dirty flame sensor can make it hard to light up the burner if it’s not tuned properly. A sensor covered with dirt will not be able to sense the flame and will cut off. Maybe the burner is covered in dirt as well and thus not working correctly. Call an HVAC technician for maintenance to make sure your furnace doesn’t further damage.
Time To Make That Call
After you have tried your best and done all that cleaning and replacing, maybe your heater will start working fine. If it still doesn’t work or you would like a professional to take care of it, this Yorktown heating company has your back!