Most Common Heater Problems
When there is a problem with the home's heating system, it can cause the house to never get warm enough no matter how long the heat is on. Here are the three most common heater problems that homeowners call HVAC specialists for:
- Wrong sized heater
- Broken thermostat
- Outdoor unit clogged
Some heater problems are unpredictable, but a lot are preventable with regular maintenance. Having the right type of heater for the home and giving it proper upkeep is essential for maintaining an efficiently heated home. Maintaining good indoor air quality is beneficial for preventing the spread of disease.
Improper Heater Installation
One of the reasons it is essential to leave heater installation up to a trusted professional contractor is that improper installation can cause the heating system to fail to work sufficiently. This means high utility bills and a house that is never warm enough.
A common mistake that DIY installers make is using the wrong size system for their home. They may try to save money by installing a smaller, less expensive system than they need just to find that it heats the home inadequately. Replacing it with the proper heating system means wasting money in the long run, so it is smart to do it the right way the first time with the help of an expert HVAC installer.
Broken Thermostat
The thermostat controls the function of central heating systems. When the thermostat installation is not properly set up it can cause problems with the heater. If the thermostat incorrectly detects the temperature, it may cut off the heat before the house is warm enough.
Changing the batteries in the thermostat may fix the problem. Homeowners should always maintain their thermostat by changing the batteries and cleaning dust from the system regularly. At a certain point, old thermostats will need to be replaced. Trusting the thermostat installation to a professional can prevent problems.
Dirty Outdoor Unit 
The unit may pull in air from the outdoors, and this suction can pull leaves, sticks, and other small debris inside the system. Debris inside of the HVAC system can cause blockages and malfunctions. The homeowner should regularly sweep and rake away dead leaves and debris around the unit and keep up with any recommended system maintenance.
Going inside the unit to remove debris and assess the damage is a job that is best left up to a repairman as it could be dangerous for someone inexperienced. DIY heater repair can also void manufacturer's warranties, whereas professional HVAC repairmen are covered by insurance in case of injury or property damage.
About Sunset Heating & Cooling
Sunset Heating & Cooling is proud to provide comprehensive HVAC services to Portland, OR and the surrounding areas. Call Sunset Heating & Cooling to schedule a heating service appointment today!
