10 Signs That Your Heater Needs Repair Before Winter

Heater breakdowns are frustrating, but during the winter months, they can be dangerous! Ensuring that your heater is in top working condition before winter weather sets in is crucial for keeping your home safe and comfortable. Below, we’ve outlined the top signs that your HVAC system is need of heater repair in Roseville. If you’ve noticed any of the following symptoms in your heater, it’s time to address these issues early!

1. Inconsistent Heating

Inconsistent heating throughout your home can indicate that your furnace needs a tune-up to be ready for the cold season. If you notice cold spots in certain rooms or areas that aren’t as warm as others, it may indicate a problem with your heating system. These issues can stem from:

• Clogged or dirty air filters
• Thermostat issues
• Leaky ductwork
• Problems with the blower fan

2. Strange Noises

Heaters typically make some noise as they operate, but unusual sounds like banging, rattling, squealing, or grinding could signal trouble. These sounds may indicate several issues, such as:

• Loose or broken parts
• A worn-out belt in the blower
• Motor or fan issues
• Debris in the ducts

3. Increasing Energy Bills

A sudden spike in your energy bills during the colder months may indicate that your heater is no longer operating efficiently. As heating systems age, they lose efficiency, there are many external factors that can affect the lifespan of your HVAC unit, including:

• Dirty or clogged filters
• Faulty components like thermostats or motors
• Leaky ducts allowing heat to escape
• General wear and tear

4. Frequent Cycling On and Off

Your heater should turn on and off at regular intervals to maintain a consistent temperature. However, if you notice your heating system cycling on and off frequently, this is a red flag. This issue, called “short cycling,” can be caused by:

• A malfunctioning thermostat
• Improper airflow
• A clogged filter
• An oversized or undersized system

5. Yellow Pilot Light

If your heating system has a gas furnace, the color of the pilot light can indicate a potential problem. A healthy pilot light should burn blue. If you notice it’s burning yellow, this could indicate an issue with:

• Carbon monoxide
• A dirty or faulty burner
• Incomplete combustion

6. Foul Odors

It’s normal to detect a slight burning smell when you first turn on your heater for the season as it burns off dust that has accumulated during the off months. However, if you smell something unusual, such as:

Musty

A musty odor, which could indicate mold in your ducts or heater

Burning

A burning electrical smell, which could mean an issue with wiring

Rotten

A rotten egg smell, which could signal a gas leak

7. Reduced Airflow

If your heater is running but not blowing enough air, or the airflow seems weaker than normal, it may signal a problem with your heating system. Reduced airflow can be caused by:

• A clogged or dirty filter
• A faulty blower fan
• Leaky or blocked ductwork

8. Thermostat Problems

Sometimes, the issue may not be with your heater itself, but with the thermostat controlling it. In some cases, the thermostat may simply need recalibration, but it could also be a sign that your thermostat is malfunctioning or outdated. Thermostat issues can lead to uneven heating, poor efficiency, and discomfort, so it’s important to address these issues now to avoid a furnace repair later. Common signs of a thermostat problem include:

• The heater not turning on or off
• The temperature in the house not matching the thermostat setting
• The system not responding when you adjust the thermostat

9. Your Heater is Over 10-15 Years Old

Age is a significant factor in heater performance. Most heating systems are designed to last between 10 and 15 years, but as they age, they become less efficient and more prone to breakdowns. If your heater is nearing or past this age, it’s wise to start considering repairs or even a replacement before winter.

Older heaters often:

• Lose efficiency
• Experience more frequent breakdowns
• Require more frequent repairs
• Increase energy costs

10. You Haven’t Had a Maintenance Check in Over a Year

Routine maintenance is key to keeping your heater running efficiently and preventing breakdowns. If you haven’t had your heating system serviced in over a year, it’s time to schedule a tune-up. Regular maintenance helps:

• Identify potential issues before they become major problems
• Improve the efficiency of your system
• Extend the life of your heater
• Lower your energy bills

Get Your Home Ready for Winter

It is always a good idea to get your HVAC system inspected during the fall before the winter weather sets in. Hiring a professional heater technician to assess your system can help to ensure you and your family’s protection from the cold and avoid emergency HVAC repair.

Here are just a few tips to help you get your home prepared for winter:

Check Your HVAC System

Of course, the first thing you should do is make sure that your heater is in good working condition to handle the cold. Call up a local HVAC company like South Placer Heating and Air for an inspection today!

Seal Windows and Doors

When drafts creep in from windows or doors, the additional cold air can force your heating system to work overtime! This excess use can cause extra wear and tear on your system.

Clear Out Your Gutters

Having clogged gutters can lead to water damage and ice dams during the winter.

Don’t Wait for Winter to Fix Your Heater – South Placer Heating and Air

At South Placer Heating & Air, we specialize in heater repairs, maintenance, and replacements. Our expert technicians can help you keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long. Don’t wait until your heater breaks down in the middle of a cold night, contact South Placer Heating and Air or give us a call at 916-246-2089 to schedule your heating system inspection today!