8 Common Heating Problems & How to Solve Them

You’ve just come in from another cold Brooklyn day to discover your house is nearly as cold as the outdoors.

You discover your HVAC unit isn’t running even though it should be.

Read on for some quick do-it-yourself tips to check out why your unit isn’t heating. If you’re not much of a DIY person, or have an HVAC-related question, feel free to simply call the Brooklyn HVAC experts at Petry Plumbing & Heating!

1. Thermostat isn’t On

You’d be surprised to know that sometimes the fix is just this simple. If the thermostat isn’t on, check the batteries first. While you have the thermostat open, make sure there isn’t any dust or debris clogging the connections. Make sure the timer is accurate. Finally, make sure the breaker hasn’t tripped or a fuse blown.

2. Filter is Clogged

If a furnace is struggling to produce enough heat, the filter may be clogged. If you don’t remember the last time you changed it, this could be the culprit. Once you’ve changed the filter, make a note of when the manufacturer recommends it be replaced and make a note on your calendar to change it then.

3. Safety Switch on Furnace Door is Broken

A furnace door safety switch prevents the fan and burner from coming on while the access panel is removed. Once you’ve closed the door, if the unit does not turn on, you could need a new safety switch.

4. Burner Flames are Off or Not Blue

If the flames are off or are not blue and even, then you may have a problem with your burner. Yellow flames mean the burner is dirty. Turn off the unit and vacuum the area to make it free from debris. You should also have your burner professionally cleaned annually to clean off build-up.

5. Ignition or Pilot Control isn’t Working

A faulty ignition system on a furnace or drafts in the heating system might be the culprit. Try turning off the power and gas to the furnace and then turning it back on. Do not touch the element but look for cracks or damage. Consult your appliance’s manual for the steps recommended to turn the system back on. Skipping steps could cause more damage.

6. Air Isn’t Blowing

If air isn’t blowing, there could be an issue with the blower. Look through the inspection window on a furnace. If there is a green light, it’s OK, but if there is a red light, call a professional for service.

7. Air Will Not Shut Off

If the unit is constantly blowing, your thermostat could be set on “continuous fan.” If changing the settings does not work, you may need a limit control switch.

8. Noisy Furnace or Duct Work

Sometimes a furnace runs fine but makes a lot of noise. This could be due to an issue with the ductwork. You can isolate where the sound is coming from, open the duct and remove any obstruction that might be causing the noise. If the sound is coming from the furnace, the pilot light could need to be adjusted or the blower motor needs oiling. It could also be an issue with the belts.

Help from the Brooklyn Heating Pros

While you may be mechanically inclined enough to handle some of these common issues, if you’ve done what you can safely do, reach out to us at Petri Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Drain Cleaning. We’ll be happy to send a professional Brooklyn heating expert over for a service call.