Common Problems With Heating Systems You Should Be Aware Of
Oklahoma residents know that the best way to stay warm in the winter is to bundle up and keep the heat in your house circulating. When your heating system malfunctions, it can be frustrating to figure out how to restore heat to your home. Understanding the most common problems with heating systems will help you address them when they occur.
Ultimately, the best way to restore heat to your home is to call a local professional. Our HVAC experts at Quality Heating Cooling Plumbing in Glenpool, OK, will help you with furnace comparisons and repairs to keep your home comfortable year-round.
Below are seven common problems with heating systems that you should know.
1. Clogged Air Filters
One of the most common problems with heating systems that homeowners face is a clogged air filter. The filters on your heating system remove dirt and debris from the air to improve your home’s indoor air quality.
Over time, the dust collects on the filter, making it harder for your unit to function efficiently; this can also cause your system to overheat. To see if the filter needs replacing, check the system and feel the surface. If it has a hot surface, it could be overheating and need a new filter.
You should replace your furnace filter regularly.
Doing so will help your HVAC release more clean air while preventing other issues that could require a more extreme remedy.
2. Lack of Proper Maintenance
With proper maintenance, a heating system can last up to 15 years. Without, homeowners could face frequent repairs, increased energy bills, and untimely replacements. Keeping your unit clean by clearing away dust or debris on the system is a simple way to keep it working longer.
3. Malfunctioning Thermostat
When your heating system fails, one of the first things to do is to check the thermostat.
Your HVAC unit will cool or heat your home until it reaches the temperature set by the thermostat. When the thermostat malfunctions, the heating system can’t keep your home at a comfortable temperature.
Common thermostat problems include blank screens, low battery, or an outdated system. If you suspect that the thermostat is the problem, the first step is to replace the batteries. If it is still faulty, it’s time to call an HVAC professional, like those at Quality Heating Cooling Plumbing.
4. Leaking Ducts
The ducts carry air around your home. When there is a leak, small amounts of air will escape, resulting in higher energy bills and a less efficient system.
It can be easy to overlook a leaky duct; however, a small hole in the ducts that goes unaddressed can grow into something more severe that damages the heating system. To verify if there is a leak, walk along with the ductwork and check for releasing air. If you notice any air coming out where it shouldn’t be, seal it and call the professionals.
5. The Heating System Doesn’t Turn Off
HVAC systems work by circulating the air in your home in various cycles. When the system continuously runs, it could be an indication that something is wrong.
The first thing to do is check if the system is set on “auto.” The “auto” setting tells the heating system to shut down once it reaches the desired temperature. Otherwise, it will continue to run without shutting off. If the switch is not the issue, it could be a problem with the blower.
In this case, be sure to plug in everything correctly, then reset the system. If the system reset doesn’t resolve the issue, it is likely a problem with the thermostat. Our licensed technicians can fix it and restore your heating system.
6. Mold in the System
Poor ductwork or insufficient insulation are the two ingredients for a moldy heating system. Mold not only affects the efficiency of the heating system but can diminish your home’s indoor air quality.
Cleaning away mold as soon as possible is essential to restore function to the heating unit and prevent further damage. Our HVAC technicians will clean away the mold and keep your home safe.
7. Expensive Energy Bills
A gradual increase in energy bills without changing the amount of power you use indicates a malfunctioning system, especially with heat pumps.
Spikes in the energy bills show that your heating system is working harder than usual. This could be the result of circuit board issues, clogged air filters, or leaks. Thankfully, these issues often require a simple and inexpensive fix.
In other cases, the higher energy bills could result from more severe issues like refrigerant leaks or a faulty compressor. Refrigerant leaks are dangerous as they consist of a substance poisonous to people and animals. Damaged compressors prevent the entire heating system from functioning correctly and often require an expensive fix.
When you notice higher than average energy bills, first check to see if the breaker tripped. Next, check the filters and make sure they don’t need a replacement. If neither of these is the culprit, call a professional technician right away to locate and resolve the problem.
Heating Services and Repair in Broken Arrow
Whether you notice a minor problem or a more significant issue, let the professionals at Quality Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing handle it. Our licensed technicians know what it takes to locate the problem and fix it effectively. Our Broken Arrow heating repair and HVAC services help keep homes warm during the winter by addressing the most common issues with heating systems year-round.
When the temperature dips, make sure your heating system is ready. Call Quality Heating, Cooling, and Plumbing in Glenpool Oklahoma at 918-517-8295 to schedule a repair or maintenance service.