Is your home not feeling quite as cozy as it should? Are you constantly adjusting the thermostat but still reaching for a sweater?
These could be signs that your heater is either struggling or calling it quits. So, how do you tell the difference?
Let’s break it down.
Signs Your Heater Is Struggling
Sometimes your heater is trying but just not succeeding. If you’re noticing these red flags, your system may be working overtime without getting the job done.
Inconsistent Heating
Does one room feel like a sauna while another feels like the North Pole? Uneven temperatures throughout the house are a common sign that your heater is having a tough time keeping up.
Odd Noises
Hear banging, rattling, or hissing? These noises are not just annoying—they could be pointing to a loose part, blower motor issue, or even a cracked heat exchanger.
Higher Energy Bills
A sudden spike in your utility bill with no change in usage often means your heater is running inefficiently and using more energy than necessary.
Short Cycling
If your system keeps turning on and off in short bursts, that’s called short cycling. It puts stress on the unit and signals that something is off, like a faulty thermostat or overheating issues.
Yellow Pilot Light
For gas furnaces, a yellow or flickering pilot light can indicate incomplete combustion, which could be dangerous. A healthy pilot light should always be blue.
Strange Smells
A musty odor could mean mold in your ductwork, while a burning smell might suggest your system is overheating or there’s dust on the burners.
Signs Your Heater May Be Quitting
Now let’s talk about more serious symptoms. These may mean your heater is not just struggling, it’s on the way out.
No Heat or Cold Air
If your heater is blowing cold air or not turning on at all, something major could be wrong, like a failed blower motor or broken ignition system.
Sudden Shutdowns
If your system shuts off unexpectedly and refuses to start back up, it’s time to call in the pros.
Visible Leaks
Water or fluid leaks around your furnace are never a good sign and may mean something internal has broken down.
What Can You Do?
Start simple. Check your thermostat settings, replace a dirty air filter, and inspect the breaker box. If those don’t work, it’s best to call a trusted technician for a full diagnosis.
Worried Your Heater Is On Its Last Legs?
Don’t wait until it quits for good. Contact Moore Home Services today. Our team will inspect, repair, or replace your heater so you can enjoy reliable warmth all season long.