There’s nothing worse than waking up to a freezing house in the middle of winter, only to find out your heater’s decided to take a break and your heater acting up. If your heater acting up isn’t working as it should, don’t panic just yet! Many common heating issues can be fixed with a little troubleshooting before calling in the pros. Here are five common reasons your heater might be acting up and what you can do about it.
1. Your Thermostat’s Messing With You
Before you assume the worst when your heater acting up, check your thermostat. It might sound too simple, but sometimes, the problem isn’t your heater—it’s the thermostat itself. Dead batteries, incorrect settings, or a faulty thermostat can all make it seem like your heater’s broken when it’s not. Make sure your thermostat is set to “heat” and that the temperature is turned up. If it’s battery-powered, swap out the batteries and see if that does the trick. If your thermostat is outdated or not responding, it may be time for a replacement.
2. Dirty Filters Are Choking Your System
When was the last time you changed your air filter? If you can’t remember, that could be why your heater isn’t working properly. A clogged or dirty filter restricts airflow, making your system work harder than it needs to. In some cases, your heater might even shut down to prevent overheating. The fix? Change your air filter every one to three months to keep your heating system running efficiently. If your system still isn’t heating properly after replacing the filter, you might need professional heating repair.
3. Your Pilot Light or Ignition System Is Acting Up
If you have a gas furnace and it’s blowing cold air, the issue could be with the pilot light or ignition system. Older furnaces rely on a small pilot light that can sometimes go out due to drafts or dirt buildup. Newer models use an electronic ignition system that can fail over time. If your pilot light is out, follow your manufacturer’s instructions to relight it. If it won’t stay lit or your electronic ignition isn’t working, you may need a professional to inspect it. Gas-related issues should always be handled by an expert, so if in doubt, call for professional heating services.
4. The Blower Motor Isn’t Doing Its Job
Your furnace’s blower motor is responsible for circulating warm air throughout your home. If you’re getting little to no airflow, your blower motor might be the culprit. Listen for strange noises like rattling, squeaking, or humming—these can be signs of a motor issue. Sometimes, a simple power reset can get it running again, but if the problem persists, you’ll want to get it checked out. Ignoring a struggling blower motor could lead to bigger, more expensive repairs down the road. If your heater isn’t pushing out warm air like it used to, consider scheduling HVAC maintenance to keep your system in top shape.
5. There’s a Problem With Your Heat Pump
If you rely on a heat pump instead of a traditional furnace when your heater acting up, your issue could be heat pump-related. Heat pumps pull warmth from the outside air, and if something’s blocking airflow, like leaves or snow, they won’t work as effectively. Check to make sure the outdoor unit is clear of debris and that nothing’s obstructing the airflow. If your heat pump is still struggling, it might have a refrigerant leak or a faulty reversing valve, which requires professional attention. For expert heat pump repair, check out our residential heat pump services.
Get Your Heater Running Like New Again, avoid your heater acting up
If your heater’s acting up, don’t ignore the problem—small issues can turn into costly repairs if left unchecked. While some heating problems have easy fixes, others require professional attention when your heater acting up. Whether it’s a clogged filter, a faulty ignition system, or a blower motor that’s on its last leg, Hintze HVAC is here to help. Our team specializes in residential heating repair and can quickly diagnose and fix your system to keep your home warm and cozy. Need routine maintenance when your heater acting up? Our HVAC maintenance services can help prevent breakdowns before they happen when your heater acting up. If you’re dealing with heat pump issues, our heat pump services have you covered. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and stay warm all winter long!