When it gets cold in Plainfield, IL, it gets extremely cold. You can’t combat below-freezing temperatures with a couple of blankets and a portable heater! If your central heating system isn’t working the way it should, then you need to figure out what’s wrong.
Right before you call a certified technician for repairs, you may want to see what you can do to investigate the problem. Here’s a quick list of items you should check if there’s something funky going on with your boiler or furnace.
Take a Look at Your Thermostat
If your central heating system seems fine, but your home isn’t as warm as it should be, then you may want to take a closer look at your thermostat. Yep, your thermostat could be the source of the problem, not your heating system.
Here’s what may cause your thermostat to malfunction:
- Dust underneath the main cover of your thermostat.
- Faulty wiring from new thermostat installation.
- Old, frayed wiring from initial installation.
- Mismatched, incompatible components.
If you have a digital thermostat, maybe try switching out the batteries if you get the chance.
Side note: Did you know exposure to sunlight can do significant damage to your thermostat? If the sun shines on your thermostat throughout the day, you may want to consult a professional to relocate the unit away from a window. Your thermostat should be fairly close to the housing system for your heater.
Check Your Circuit Breaker
So your heater just tripped your circuit breaker. What are you supposed to do now? Just try it again and hope for the best? No, in this scenario, it’s best to consult a professional.
Your heater is likely overworking itself, causing your circuit breaker to trip. This can be due to:
- Dirty air filters
- Collapsed, crushed, or bent air ducts
- Closed or blocked return vents
You could also have an electrical issue. Your heater could be sharing a circuit with another appliance or there could be a short circuit in the unit itself.
In either scenario, you should call a professional for help. Because the wiring can be tied into your entire electrical panel, any minor mistake in the repair can leave you without power in your home.
Look for a Blown Fuse
Did your furnace blow a fuse? Again? You need to call a professional right away. A blown fuse is a clear sign that your electrical system is not equipped to handle your heating system. Whether the problem is due to low airflow or an electrical short, you need to find a fix – and fast!
Remember: resetting your circuit breaker is only a temporary solution. If it happens rarely, it shouldn’t be a major cause for concern as it’s a common symptom of wear and tear. If, however, you’re blowing fuses every time you use your heating system, this is a major cause for concern.
Don’t go through winter with a faulty heating system. Call our heating professionals at TR Miller Heating & Cooling. We’ve worked on all types of central heating systems in Plainfield, IL. Your comfort is our first priority. Schedule an appointment today for your heating repairs.
