6 Reasons Your Heater Might Not Be Working

As the cold air settles in this winter, our heaters can feel like a godsend. They offer a respite from the chilly winter weather. There is something so comforting sitting in a heated room while the wind whispers outside. Unfortunately, if your heater does not work, the winter can seem unbearable, especially in Indiana and Ohio. But before you start to freak out, take a breath and check to see if any of the following might be a problem.

Thermostat Issues

The thermostat controls the temperature inside your home. As such, make sure that the dial is turned to heat. You should also check to see that the temperature that is set is at least five degrees higher than the current one. Some thermostats work with batteries, so make sure that those are not dead.

Pilot Light

Furnaces that work with gas have pilot lights. These flames provide the energy needed to heat a home and must be continuously lit. Check your furnace to make sure this flame has not gone out. Also check to see the strength of the flame. It should be blue, and not a weak yellow.

Problems with Circuit Breaker

The circuit breaker controls the flow of electricity in your home. Make sure that it has not tripped or blown out. If there is a disturbance to this unit, it can affect the way your heater works (or doesn’t, in this case).

Check Your Ducts

If your ductwork system is not properly set up and secure, it can cause heat from reaching the main rooms. Make sure the ducts do not have patches that allow hot air to leak. This can cause cold spots in your home.

Dirty Air Filters

You should change your air filters regularly. The filters trap debris and particles that move through the air. If these are not changed on time, the dirt can build up, blocking the regular flow of heat. This can prevent your home from warming up like it should.

Furnace Maintenance

Most furnaces usually last up to 30 to 40 years. They need to be properly checked and maintained in order to ensure they work the way they should. If you can’t remember the last time you looked at your furnace, it might be time now. Your furnace may also need to be replaced if it’s at the end of its life. These both can lead to cold homes.

At Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling, we want your winters to be as comfortable as possible. That is why if your heating is not working, contact our Indiana and Ohio heating technicians today. We offer free estimates and can help you get your warm home again. Call today!