Signs It’s Time to Repair a Home Heating System
As the weather starts to shift and becomes colder, it is imperative to ensure that a home's heating system works correctly. However, slight indicators that a heating system needs repair can go unnoticed. Before the snow starts to fall, here are signs that a home's heating system may need to be repaired:
A healthy heating system maintains the desired temperature by turning on to raise it and off when it matches, only restarting when it falls below the set point, and if it struggles to do this, it needs immediate servicing.
It hasn't been serviced in over a year
It is important to have a heating system serviced every year to ensure that there are no unknown issues causing damage or problems. It may need repairs if a heating system has gone over a year or longer without a service appointment.
Higher-than-usual energy bill
If a homeowner notices their energy bill has spiked significantly from the previous winter to now, the heating system may be using excess energy to work. A repair can decrease the bill and ensure the system works optimally.
It frequently turns on and off
A healthy heating system registers a home's desired temperature, raises it to match, and then turns it off. It will only turn back on when the temperature falls below its set point. If a heating system works too hard to turn on and stay on, it should be serviced immediately.
It's blowing cold air
Typically, when a heating system turns on, there may be an initial outflow of cold air. This occurs because the system is in the process of heating up. If cold air is present for the duration of the time the heating system is on, it might be an indicator that something is wrong.
It's blowing little to no air
A heating system should produce a strong gust of wind to warm a home. If no air can be felt coming from the vent, there may be a problem with the heating system's belt, motors, or fan.
There is hot water leaking out of it
A leak is never an ideal issue to find in a home. If a homeowner notices a puddle of water surrounding their heating system, it is best to call a professional to address the problem immediately. Any water should be wiped up to prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Gas leaking into the home
If a homeowner smells a gas leak coming directly from their heating system, it is imperative that they shut off the gas and call a technician immediately. Gas leaks can be extremely dangerous and lead to an explosion or fire if not handled promptly.
It isn't connected to the thermostat
Thermostats are fundamental machines that communicate a homeowner's temperature preferences to their heating system. A blown fuse or electricity problem could be the culprit behind any issues with this communication that may occur.
It's making unusual noises
Unusual noises are indicators that a heating system might not be working correctly. When functioning properly, the system won't make noise, whether operational or not. If a heating system starts making disturbing noises, it is best to call a technician to identify and fix the problem immediately.
It's over ten years old
Like most appliances and other important home systems, heating systems have a lifespan. A typical system can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years. If a homeowner notices repeated issues and their heating system needs constant repairs, it may be reaching the end of its life. Repairs are usually a one-time fix that significantly improves the quality of a heating system. However, if repeated repairs and similar issues continue, it may be time to consider replacing the entire system.
Above and Beyond Air Conditioning & Heating is a San Antonio residential and commercial heating and air conditioning company dedicated to providing the highest level of home comfort. Call us today at 210-897-8658.
