As the cold weather continues to deepen, you’ll rely on your central heating system more and more until it will run during most of the day. You expect your heater will keep your family comfortable—that’s why you installed it, after all. But you might find as the winter starts that the house isn’t warming up the way you expect it to. You set the thermostat at the standard temperature for comfort in the house, but people are complaining that it’s too cold and they’re starting to layer up their sweaters or even wearing parkas around the house.
What’s going on?
There are numerous reasons for a heating system failing to adequately heat a house. We’ll look below at four of the most common ones. In many cases, you’ll need professional HVAC service in Mason, OH to correct the problem.
ONE: The air filter is clogged
This is the #1 preventable cause of inadequate household heating. The air filter for the heater usually functions as the filter for the AC as well. After months of the air conditioner running, the filter may be clogged up. If the heater cannot draw enough air through the filter, it won’t be able to heat the same volume of air and distribute it. If the filter is clogged, change it for a new one and continue to change it every one to three months.
TWO: The thermostat is malfunctioning
Please don’t keep pushing the thermostat up higher and higher to make up for the comfort deficit. This wastes energy, places unnecessary strain on the system, and won’t solve the core problem, only let it worsen. And the thermostat may be the core problem. If the thermostat is miscalibrated, it will sense incorrect temperatures in the house and shut itself off early, leaving the house too cold. Our technicians can recalibrate the thermostat to fix this.
THREE: Leaky air ducts
The air ducts are mostly out of sight, so it’s hard to tell when they’ve developed leaks—but a house that won’t warm up is a good warning sign this has happened. Not only will heated air escape through these gaps and holes, but the air pressure in the ventilation system will drop, making it harder for the HVAC system to distribute air. Professionals can locate the leaks and seal them.
FOUR: The heating system is dying
If you have a central heater that is close to or older than its manufacturer’s estimated lifespan, a decline in heating capacity is a major indication that the system is in its last stages. Repairs may be able to restore it, but not for long enough to make it worth it. The heating system will need to be replaced. You can ask our technicians if this is the case, and they’ll give you honest answers about whether you should repair or replace your aging heater.
Unless the reason for the low heating in your house is a simple one, like a clogged filter, please leave the diagnosis of the problem to our professionals. We’ll locate the issue and have it fixed so you can enjoy a relaxing winter.
“For a Comfortable Way of Life,” call Bartels Heating & Cooling. We have 24-hour emergency service available.