Depending on where you live, the winter months can be harsh. As a result, the majority of people rely on a furnace, heat pump, or another heating system to ensure a comfortable temperature when the weather turns colder. However, if you’re having problems with your heater, it could leave you out in the cold, literally. Fortunately, there are some things that you can try to troubleshoot your heating issues and get your home warm again.
While there are several problems with your heating systems that require the assistance of a qualified professional, there are a few things that you can try to troubleshoot yourself. With a little know-how, you might be able to get your system up and running in no time. Let’s take a look at a few things you can check if your heater is blowing cold air.
Make sure the thermostat is operational.
If the heater is not working, you should start with the simple things first. As the director behind your HVAC system, your home thermostat is responsible for calling the heater or air conditioner. If there is an issue with your heater, the first thing you should do is check out the thermostat. You should begin by making sure the power is on and that you haven’t blown a fuse. Electrical issues with the thermostat can be common and will stop your HVAC from engaging. If there is power to your thermostat, you’ll want to make sure it is set to the correct temperature and is in the correct operational mode. Often, many heater problems can be the result of the thermostat and not an issue with the heater at all.
Check for vent airflow.
If you’re having trouble with your heater, one of the first things you can do is check the HVAC vents to make sure they’re not blocked. This can be done by simply looking at them and making sure there’s nothing obstructing the airflow. You can also try sticking your hand in front of the vent to see if there’s any air movement. If there’s not, then the vent may be blocked, and you’ll need to clean it out.
Inspect the air filters and replace them if necessary.
If your heater is not working, it could be the result of dirty or clogged air filters. Your air filters remove dirt, dust, pollen, and other allergens from the circulated air. Your air filter promotes quality indoor air and prevents respiratory issues. However, if your filters aren’t changed regularly, they could become clogged and cause your HVAC to malfunction. A dirty air filter can prevent an adequate amount of air from circulating through your heating system. It is important that you check your air filters and change them if necessary.
Check your heating element.
A dirty heating element is a common problem with heating systems. When the heating element becomes dirty, it can cause the system to not heat properly. The dirt can also cause the system to overheat, which can damage the heating element. If the heating element becomes dirty, it is important to clean it as soon as possible. You can clean the heating element yourself or have a professional clean it for you.
Heating issues can be frustrating and costly, but there are some things you can try to troubleshoot the issue and get your home warm again. If your furnace isn’t blowing warm air, you can check out the filters, the thermostat, and your heating element. You should also check the vents to make sure they’re not blocked. If you aren’t able to solve the problem yourself, you can always call an HVAC technician to help repair your heater issues.
