LOSING HEAT IN YOUR HOME IN THE DEAD OF WINTER IS A BUMMER. WHEN THE COLD WEATHER SINKS IN, YOU WANT TO BE PREPARED WITH A HOME HEATING SYSTEM THAT WON’T LET YOU DOWN. KENNEDY AIR CONDITIONING / HVAC OF GREATER LITTLE ROCK, AR TAKES A LOOK AT SOME COMMON HEATING PROBLEMS AND HOW TO AVOID THEM.
Lack of maintenance is probably the most common reason for home heating issues. Keeping up with periodic (but easy) maintenance of your central heating unit and duct work will help the system to last longer, run more efficiently, and save you money.
Clogged filters are a common problem with home heating systems. Dirty filters restrict air flow and allow the buildup of dust, dander, and pollen. This back-up causes lower air quality and makes your HVAC system work harder—using more energy. Get in the habit of changing out your air filters once a month to keep the system running at its best over and keep you warm every winter!
“Short cycling” is a common problem with home furnaces that is caused by clogged filters. If your system turns off and back on repeatedly, there may be a circulation problem within the system. Clogged filters can cause your thermostat to incorrectly read that your set temperature has been reached when it actually has not and shut off the unit. In addition to changing your filters monthly, make sure you have a properly functioning thermostat that is not in direct sunlight or near another heat source.
If your thermostat still seems to malfunction after installing a new filter, the problem may be a corroded flame sensor or an obstruction in your chimney or air vent. A thermostat that is inadequate for the size of your heating system could also be the source of the problem. You should also double-check that your gas line is properly connected—check other gas appliances to make sure they’re working properly. If your gas supply has been cut off, for instance, your heating unit may continue to run without producing heat.
If you are still experiencing problems after checking your thermostat and gas supply, the problem could be with the duct work. Your home’s duct system may become blocked or develop tears or holes over the years, allowing heat to leak and reducing the flow of the system. These types of problems usually require the service of an expert.
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