While the temperature rarely drops below freezing, winter in Sunrise, FL can still get pretty cold. So a heating system remains crucial in staying warm. So when it starts acting up, it can be a headache.
So to help you out, this blog covers reasons for your heating system malfunction, how to troubleshoot them, when to call for heater repair in Sunrise, FL, and ways to minimize the risk of unexpected system malfunctioning in the middle of the winter.
Why Is My Heating System Not Working Properly
While heating systems are durable, they remain susceptible to several things, such as power surges, dirt and dust accumulation, and other elements that prevent them from working their best. It can be a major inconvenience when your heating system starts acting up, especially during colder months. Unfortunately, this can be inevitable at times.
Here are a few reasons your heating system isn’t working as it should and may require heater repair in Sunrise, FL:
Dirt and dust have built up on vital parts.
Some types of heating systems require an unobstructed flow of air to heat your home properly. However, this isn’t possible when dirt and dust have already accumulated on key parts, such as the filter and coils. This often happens when the unit isn’t cleaned for a long time.
The thermostat is not properly calibrated.
The thermostat is one of the most important parts of the heating system as it regulates the temperature. The device will have inaccurate temperature readings if it’s not properly calibrated. So your heating system won’t heat your home as you expect it to.
The refrigerant is too low.
If you’re using a heat pump, then the refrigerant is a vital part of the system. It’s crucial in warming up the air inside your home. But for your heating system to be able to function properly, it has to have a certain amount of refrigerant. An insufficient amount of refrigerant will often result in your heating system not working at all.
The blower motors are dead.
The blower motors should be running when your heating system is turned on to help circulate the warm air within your home. If these don’t work, then you won’t get the level of comfort you expect from your heater.
There’s no sufficient gas supply.
If you’re using a gas-powered heater, then there must be an adequate gas supply for the system to function properly. If there’s not enough gas supply, then your heater won’t be able to heat your home effectively.
Your heating system isn’t the right size.
A heating system that’s either too large or too small for the space it’s meant to heat is likely to develop a plethora of issues, such as uneven temperature distribution, frequent cycling, and more. The best way to fix this is to call a professional for an inspection and replace the system with a more appropriate one.
How Can I Fix My Malfunctioning Heating System?
The best way to fix a malfunctioning heating system is to call an expert in heater repair in Sunrise, FL. There are many different heating systems, each with its own set of problems that can occur. An expert will be able to quickly diagnose the problem and recommend a course of action to take to fix it.
But what if your heating system goes out in the middle of the night and you don’t have an extra budget for an emergency heater repair in Sunrise, FL.? Well, there are a few things you can do. If you’re lucky, the problem may only require a simple fix. Here are a few ways to troubleshoot a malfunctioning heater:
Set the thermostat properly.
It may sound silly, but forgetting to set the thermostat correctly is a common mistake that can cause heating problems. So before anything else, check the thermostat and make sure it’s turned on and in the correct setting.
Reset the circuit breaker.
If your heating system is powered by electricity, then a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker may be the culprit. Go to your fuse box or circuit breaker panel and reset the switch. If it trips again, then there may be a more serious problem, and you’ll need to call an electrician or schedule a heater repair in Sunrise, FL.
Check and change the filter.
The filter should be changed or cleaned regularly to prevent clogging that could result to a plethora of issues. So if your heater is acting up and you haven’t given attention to the filter, now is the time to check, replace or clean it as necessary.
Turn on the gas valve.
In the case of a gas-powered heating system, the first thing you need to do is check the gas supply. There’s a valve that controls the flow of gas into the system. If this valve is turned off, then your heating system won’t work. So make sure the valve is in the “on” position.
You’ll surely find many other troubleshooting tips out there. However, we recommend not tampering with your heating system unless you’re ready to take the risks. It’s always best to call a qualified technician for heater repair in Sunrise, FL.
When Should I Call a Professional to Help Fix My Heating System?
Let’s face it, when the weather outside is frightful, the last thing you want is for your heating system to act up. But when do you know whether you can tough it out and fix the problem yourself or whether you need to call in reinforcements? We’ve compiled a list of circumstances that should help you make the decision.
1. When You’re Not Sure What the Problem Is
If you have no idea what could be causing the problem, leave it to the professionals. HVAC technicians receive training specifically on how to troubleshoot these types of issues. They also have access to diagnostic tools that the average person does not, which means they can usually identify the problem much faster than you could on your own.
2. When You Don’t Have the Right Tools
To properly repair your heating system, you need access to certain tools — tools that most people don’t keep around the house. Things like multimeters, refrigerant gauges, and vacuum pumps are necessary for a proper repair job but aren’t exactly something you can pick up at your local hardware store. Unless you’re confident you can borrow or rent the tools you need, it’s probably best to just call a company offering heater repair in Sunrise, FL.
3. When You Can’t Afford to Make a Mistake
Let’s say you manage to troubleshoot the problem and even find the right tools—are you confident enough in your skills to actually fix the issue? Remember, this is your home we’re talking about. One wrong move and you could end up doing more damage than good. If you don’t feel comfortable taking on such a responsibility, it would be better (and cheaper in the long run) to just call someone who does this for a living.
There are some cases where it may be tempting to try and fix your heating system yourself—after all, DIY projects can be gratifying, not to mention cost-effective. However, when it comes to something as crucial (and potentially dangerous) as your home’s heating system, it’s always better to play it safe and call in a professional. Just remember: if you’re unsure of the problem, don’t have the right tools, or aren’t confident in your abilities, it’s always better to ask for help rather than trying to go it alone!
How Can I Prevent My Heating System from Malfunctioning in the Future?
The worst part about a heating system malfunction is that it always seems to happen at the most inopportune time. Like when a cold front moves in, and temperatures start to dip into the single digits. That’s why it’s important to do everything you can to prevent your heating system from breaking down when you need it most. Here are a few tips to help you avoid a future heating disaster.
1. Replace your filter regularly.
One of the most important things you can do to prevent your heating system from malfunctioning is to replace your filter regularly. Most filters should be replaced every 1-3 months, but be sure to check your owner’s manual for specific instructions.
2. Keep your vents clear.
Another way to keep your heating system running smoothly is to make sure your vents are clear of furniture, rugs, and other obstacles. Obstructed vents can restrict airflow and cause your system to overwork itself. Once a month, take a walk around your home and clear any obstructions from your vents.
3. Schedule annual maintenance.
The best way to prevent future problems with your heating system is to have it serviced by a professional on an annual basis. A trained technician will be able to clean and inspect your system and identify any potential issues before they become major problems. Additionally, many companies offer discounts on parts and labor if you sign up for annual maintenance.
By following these simple tips, you can prevent future problems with your heating system and keep your family warm all winter long. Regular maintenance is key to minimizing heater repair in Sunrise, FL and prolonging the life of your system, so be sure to schedule an annual appointment with a qualified technician. With a little bit of care, you can keep your heating system running smoothly for years to come.
Heating Problems? Let Air Anytime Help You!
For heater repair in Sunrise, FL, look no further than Air Anytime. From simple repairs to complete system installations, we have the expertise and knowledge to get your heating system up and running again quickly. Our technicians are trained to service all makes and models of furnaces, heat pumps, boilers, and more. We also offer energy-efficient solutions that can help reduce your energy costs.
Contact us today at (954) 569-5155 and let us help you stay warm this winter!