As winter settles in, you need a reliable heating system that can keep you and your family warm and cozy, tucked up at home, enjoying festivals. However, it is also true that you cannot blindly trust electrical appliances as they are prone to unexpected problems, especially when you don’t invest time in their annual inspection and maintenance. In this blog, you will learn about common heating repairs and how you can avoid them by understanding them.

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Thermostat Settings

Most often, the heating problem isn’t due to faulty heating equipment but your thermostat, which might malfunction, especially if it is old. In old houses where heating systems have become outdated, this is a general problem that your thermostat shows inaccurate temperatures or causes the system to cycle on and off unnecessarily.

How to Avoid?

• Change your thermostat and install an updated or smart one that adapts to your habits and adjusts the temperature accordingly.
• Always check the thermostat's batteries and change them on time to avoid inconvenience.
• As you schedule annual maintenance, get your thermostat cleaned, dusted, and inspected to ensure it is in mint condition.

Dirty or Clogged Filters

Air filters are the most crucial component of a heating system. If they are clogged or dirty, they will hinder the heating capacity of the equipment. Also, they need to be replaced at fixed intervals. When the airflow is restricted, the system works harder and wears itself out.

How to Avoid?

• Get the air filters inspected and cleaned by a professional at least annually.
• Change the air filters from time to time. Changing them every two or three months is a good idea.

Leaky Ductwork

Leaky ductwork isn’t a good sign for your heater. It leads to heat loss, reduced efficiency, and higher energy bills. A leaky ductwork can be due to improper installation, physical damage or aging equipment.

How to Avoid?

• Inspect the ductwork on timely basis for any signs of potential leaks.
• If there is any visible gap, use a professional sealing solution for it and see if it stops the leak.
• Insulate the ductwork especially those running through unheated areas like attics or basements, to prevent heat loss.

Frequent Cycling

If the heating system is cycling on and off frequently, the reasons might be a faulty thermostat, dirty filter, or improper airflow. But this frequent cycling stresses the equipment, causes early wear and tear, and shortens the machine's lifespan.

How to Avoid?

• Calibrate your thermostat or invest in a new, smart one for accurate temperature control.
• Replace air filters regularly to ensure proper airflow.
• If the cycling issue persists, call a professional for heating repair in Orange County.

Faulty Heat Exchanger

If you have a furnace system, this for you. There is a heat exchanger in your system that heats up the air and circulates it throughout your home. Over time, these components crack or wear out, thus reducing efficiency and posing safety risks.

How to Avoid?

• Firstly, the furnace is not a component you can check by yourself, so call for a yearly inspection and get it checked.
• Dirt buildup is the most common cause that causes heating system issues, so keep the system and the area around it clean.
• Ensure proper ventilation to avoid excess moisture and rust buildup on the heat exchanger.

Blower Motor

If your thermostat shows a steady temperature but no heating, it might be a problem with the blower motor. This component is responsible for spreading warm air throughout your home. If it breaks down, you experience low or no airflow.

How to Avoid?

• Lubricate it regularly to prevent wear and tear.
• Look for any unusual noises, such as rattling or squeaking. These are signs of a motor failing.
• Keep the air ducts clean to prevent motor from overworking.

How to Avoid Heating System Issues?

Here are some tips to keep your heating system in best shape and to avoid any problems:

Annual Inspection: It is often undermined and overlooked by households, but if you want to keep the heating system working for years and don’t want to spend on its frequent repair, then an annual inspection is crucial. The professionals for heating repair in Orange County will not only check it for existing but also for potential problems and change any parts that require replacement.

Regular Cleaning: Be it the ducts, the machine, or the heat pump, keep all of them dust and dirt-free as it affects the machine’s performance, causes it unnecessary stress, and shortens its lifespan.

Monitor the Performance: To keep your system in good condition, monitor its performance over time. Do not ignore the unusual noises, inconsistent temperatures, and ineffective heating.

Seal Your Home: One of the requirements for effective heating around the home is to seal your home properly so the heat doesn’t leak. It also reduces the load on the heating system and lengthens its lifespan.

Final Thoughts

A heating system is a crucial piece of equipment, especially in the winter. You are responsible for keeping it in good health to ensure your and your family’s comfort. So, if you want to avoid the heating system problems discussed above, book a professional for heating repair in Orange County from time to time.