Brrrrrr… It’s cold outside. If you had a heating problem, would you know what to do? To help keep you warm and safe all season long, here are some heating troubleshooting tips from Cormack’s home building, remodeling, and maintenance professionals.
1. Check the emergency switch.
Heating system not turning on? Check the emergency switch to make sure it wasn’t accidentally turned off. Switches are typically located at the top of your basement stairs.
2. Reset your breaker box.
If your system still isn’t running, check to see if your circuit breakers have flipped or blown a fuse. To reset your breaker, simply turn off the switch, wait a few seconds, and turn it back on.
3. Take a look at your thermostat.
Your thermostat can be the culprit of many heating system issues—including turning on at the wrong time, or not at all. First, confirm that your temperature settings haven’t been accidentally changed. Next, set the thermostat to your desired temperature. If it doesn’t adjust to your setting, your thermostat may need new batteries. If you’re still having issues after changing out the batteries, you may need a new thermostat or a consultation with an HVAC technician.
4. Remove any debris from your exterior vents.
Remove any leaves, snow, or ice that have accumulated around your outdoor vents. A debris buildup can prevent your equipment from getting the air it needs to operate properly, and can cause its motor to overheat.
5. Replace your furnace’s filter.
If your heating system isn’t working as well as it should, it may be time to change your furnace’s filter. A dirty, clogged, or older filter can reduce the performance of your heating system, causing unnecessary wear and tear, and a decrease in overall air quality.
6. Be on the lookout for vent obstructions.
Ensure your heating vents are open and not covered by furniture or other objects that could obstruct air flow. This is especially important during the holiday season, when furniture is often rearranged and additional decor is brought into the home.
Know when to call an HVAC professional.
These troubleshooting tips will help you with many common heating issues. However, you should call in an HVAC professional if:
You detect a burnt, musty, moldy, or rotten egg smell.
There are strange noises coming from your heating unit, such as grinding or squealing.
Water is leaking from your furnace.
Know the Signs of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning.
If the members of your household are experiencing the common symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning (headaches, dizziness, confusion, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, and chest pain), call 911 for fire and rescue to come and check them out and meter your home.
If a carbon monoxide leak is detected, you'll need to vacate your home until it is repaired by an HVAC professional.
Home Building, Remodeling, & Maintenance in New Hampshire’s Lakes Region, White Mountains & Eastern Maine
For over 40 years, area homeowners have trusted Cormack Construction Management with their home construction, remodeling, and maintenance and repair needs. If you need help with a project, contact the Cormack team for a free, no-obligation consultation.