HVAC issues are prominent around this time of the year. This is no surprise when you think about the high usage of furnaces in the winter. Because furnaces are used at a high rate in these months, it’s not uncommon for them to become overworked, leading to unpleasant situations surfacing with your furnace. If your furnace has been acting up, you’ve come to the right place! On the other hand, if nothing has occurred with your HVAC system – great! However, it would still be wise to keep these top HVAC winter issues in mind; that way, you can stay two steps ahead. Join Clayton-Englewood Heating & Cooling as we discuss the seven insightful reasons your HVAC system may suddenly go out on you this winter.
1. IS THERE A CARBON MONOXIDE DETECTOR IN PLACE?
Safety first! Carbon monoxide is a silent killer because it is a colorless and odorless gas. Therefore, when there is a carbon monoxide leak, it is almost undetectable. Because a malfunctioning furnace can leak carbon monoxide, having one installed in your home is so important!
2. IS YOUR THERMOSTAT WORKING?
A good thermostat will hold for a long while. But over time, circumstances may have loosened the wires, a chip may start to malfunction, or the batteries simply need to be changed! So, if your furnace does not seem to be responding or perhaps it’s running, but something seems off, the first thing you should check is your thermostat. Because it functions as the sole means of communication between you and your HVAC system, it’s imperative to confirm that everything is functioning fine with your thermostat as it should if you notice something awry with your heating system.
3. IS YOUR HVAC AIR FILTER CLOGGED?
Next, a clogged HVAC air filter can actually cause quite an array of issues with your HVAC system. So, after inspecting your thermostat, if the problem persists, try checking the air filter. Generally, it is suggested that homeowners change their air filters every 1-2 months, but it wouldn’t hurt to double-check that the air filter didn’t suddenly get clogged. Furthermore, we recommend that air filters are changed to optimize your HVAC system’s efficiency to its highest capacity.
4. IS AN HVAC PIPE OR COIL FROZEN?
These winter months in Ohio endure some pretty cold temperatures! It’s not unusual for an HVAC system to have a pipe or coil freeze up. If your heat isn’t working due to a malfunctioning furnace and you suspect ice may be the culprit, give us a call!
5. IS THE AIRFLOW RESTRICTED?
If you have noticed there is a room in your home that seems to be colder than the rest of the rooms in your home, you are experiencing airflow restriction. Airflow restriction is caused by blocked ducts and vents. Take a minute to check all the vents in the affected room; you want to confirm that each vent is open and not closed. In addition, be sure to remove any obstructions that could be covering the line of airflow. For example, nothing should be directly on top of the vent or in front of it. You also don’t want any vents left hiding under furniture.
6. IS THE PILOT LIGHT LIT?
Perhaps your furnace is running, but it doesn’t seem to give off any heat. If this sounds like the issue you are dealing with, try checking the pilot light. It’s possible that the pilot light flickered off due to a draft, in which case you can try relighting it (if you feel comfortable). Usually, manufacturer instructions are placed on the unit’s side with how to relight the pilot light. If this doesn’t work, you may be dealing with a damaged sensor, in which case it’s time to call a service professional to assess the situation.
7. IS THE FURNACE OR HEAT PUMP DAMAGED?
Preventative maintenance is essential when it comes to your entire HVAC system. Your heat pump or furnace needs to be maintained with regular upkeep to ensure all pieces are operating smoothly and as they should be. When complex machinery like your HVAC system continually runs without proper maintenance (especially during the winter), small components can start to break down, leading to much larger problems that can cause the entire system to malfunction, leaving you without heat for the winter. If you have not been able to pinpoint the source of your malfunctioning HVAC system, this is an excellent indication to call in the professionals.
Clayton-Englewood Heating & Cooling wants you and your family to remain toasty and warm in the comfort of your home this winter. If anything goes wrong with your HVAC system in the middle of winter and you can’t quite pinpoint the issue, please, don’t hesitate to give us a call! We are open 365 days a year, 24/7. Emergency HVAC services are our specialty! Call Clayton-Englewood Heating & Cooling today at (937) 412-2911, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
