A heating system is a major investment, which is why you want to get full value for it. While build quality can determine the natural lifespan of a heater, every unit needs maintenance at some point to stay in top condition.
When a heater needs repair, there are a few warning signs you can look out for so issues don’t compound. Let’s break them down.
No heat
This is the most obvious warning sign, but it’s also an indicator that something has been wrong for a while. By the time a heating system stops producing warmth entirely, the initial fault might have escalated to a system shutdown.
If this happens, call an HVAC technician immediately. Not only is a qualified professional trained to repair faults, but they can trace any secondary damage caused by the main problem.
Uneven heating
If it feels like parts of your house are warmer or colder than others, it’s definitely a sign of a problem.
Leaks in the ductwork, faulty thermometers, and clogged air filters can all make it harder for your heater to properly distribute heat where it needs to. Clogged filters can also trap hot air in the vent, creating a build-up of heat that can lead to other issues.
Higher energy bill
We know how annoying this warning sign can be; after all, it only shows up at the end of the month. But if you’ve noticed an abnormal spike in energy consumption, it’s always wise to get an inspection done.
Heaters use more energy when they have to compensate for issues like restricted airflow and aging parts. Not only does this mean a higher energy bill, but it can wear out your heater unnecessarily.
Odd smells
Odd smells in your system can be concerning, but it doesn’t necessarily mean there’s organic matter trapped in the vents. When electrical elements overheat, they can produce a smell like burning rubber or plastic.
If you haven’t used your heater in a while, it may accumulate dust, which burns up the next time you turn your unit on. Moisture can also gather in the ducts, leaving a musty smell. If you notice persistent smells coming out of your heating system, shut it off immediately.
Short-cycling
A heating unit warms its air in regulated cycles. When a heater is working well, these cycles run until the air is at the correct temperature before the heater switches off again. This ensures that your unit only uses energy when it needs to and protects its overall condition.
Short-cycling is when a heater keeps shutting down before the end of a cycle. This can cause uneven heating, but your unit might also break down quicker as it tries to compensate.
Like the other warning signs on this list, short-cycling might not be an isolated issue. That’s why you need a high-quality repair service that gives you comprehensive support when your heater needs it most. So who can you call?
For professional heating repair in Niceville, contact Kool Breeze of Northwest Florida, Inc.