As the weather in Hampton Roads shifts from mild fall temperatures to icy winter, you’ll soon be depending on your heating system to provide you and your family with cozy warmth. This is the moment to evaluate your heating system and guarantee it’s prepared to deliver hot air when the colder temperatures arrive.
Unfortunately, numerous homeowners in the region will encounter a common problem when they switch on their heaters: the heater is not working as expected, and it’s not blowing hot air. If you find yourself facing this issue, follow these troubleshooting steps initially. These are the common reasons why heating units stop working in homes. However, if your heater not blowing hot air persists despite your efforts, it’s advisable to contact the skilled team of technicians at Smith & Keene for expert assistance.
1. Monitor Thermostat
Whether you have a SMART, programmable, or standard thermostat, it requires attention as you transition from hot weather to cold. Check your thermostat and ensure it is set to either the “heat” or “automatic” setting (instead of “cool”). Raise the temperature setting to a high degree to initiate the heating unit. After waiting for several minutes with your thermostat set on the “heat” setting at a high temperature, your heating unit should begin working. If it does not, move on to the next troubleshooting steps.
2. Check Power Source
Double-check that the power switch on your unit is in the “on” position. Whether you have an electric heating system or gas, there is a power switch that must be in the “on” position in order to work properly. Ensure that the power source (either electric or gas) is being properly delivered to your heating unit.
If you have an electric unit, check the circuit breaker to ensure that electricity is being sent to your heating unit. If you have a gas unit, check that there is a pilot light. Additionally, check that your gas heating unit has ample fuel delivered to the unit. Evaluate your gas control valve and be sure that it is also in the “on” position.
3. Clean Filters
One of the most common issues with a heating system not functioning is dirty air filters. If your air filters are extremely dirty, then the airflow can be blocked. Check for clean air filters, vents, and registers. Make sure there are no rugs or furniture blocking vents or registers as well.
4. Check Condensation Pan
If you’re still encountering issues where your heater is not working, inspect your system’s condensation pan. If you find that it’s full, take the necessary steps to drain the reservoir pan. Following that, investigate the condensation drainage line for any potential blockages. It’s worth noting that many systems include an automatic shut-off feature when the condensation pan is full. To resolve this, clear the condensation line and empty the reservoir pan, which should initiate a system reset and get your heating system back in operation.
5. Reset Overloaded Motor
If the motor of your heating unit has overheated (often due to dirt and debris), your entire system will shut down. Try turning off the system and give it a half-hour of rest so that it can cool. After that time, try turning the heater on a second time. If the motor does not begin working, you can try the process a second time. If the third time is not the charm then you should contact a professional for a proper diagnosis.
For furnace systems, inspect the blower compartment for potential issues with the blower motor, control board, and run capacitor. There should be a flashing green light in the blower compartment’s inspection window indicating that everything is running smoothly. If the light is either red or not flashing at all, then further inspection of those areas is required.
Call The Professionals If Your Heater Is Not Working
After following these troubleshooting steps, if your heating system is still not functioning it is time to call the professionals. Smith & Keene has a team of experienced professional HVAC technicians ready to identify and resolve your heater’s problem. If your system is well past its prime and needs replacing, then Smith & Keene’s Home Energy Experts can guide you on selecting the optimum HVAC system for your home. Our team can help you find the most energy-efficient system to lower your monthly utility bill, working within your budget and needs.
Serving all of Hampton Roads, Smith & Keene is your premier HVAC team to meet all of your home’s heating and cooling needs. Take steps now to check your heating system. Better yet, schedule maintenance of your home’s heating and cooling system by enrolling in Smith & Keene’s Signature Service Plan. Call 757-420-1921 or contact Smith & Keene today!
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