California is famous for its sunshine, palm trees, and oceanside beaches. While it may not have the harshest winters compared to other regions, the state’s colder months still require adequate heating to remain comfortable in your home. When it is time to turn on the heating, the last thing anyone wants to encounter is a malfunctioning system. This guide to common heating issues in California properties helps homeowners prepare for the cold season.
Faulty Thermostat
The thermostat is responsible for setting temperature preferences for your heating system. If the thermostat stops working, it can render the entire system’s performance ineffective. Sometimes, thermostat problems result from aging or incompatibility with the heating unit. However, these issues can also result from electrical problems, blown fuses, corroded batteries, or misread temperatures.
If you suspect your thermostat has malfunctioned or provides inaccurate readings, an HVAC technician can inspect and troubleshoot the device to improve your heating. Consider replacing your traditional thermostat with a programmable or smart device. Programmable thermostats allow you to schedule temperatures automatically to match your preferred settings, while smart devices use automated learning to optimize the performance of your heating system.
Clogged Air Filters
Air filters help trap dust and other airborne particles before circulating through your home. Over time, however, these air filters may become clogged with dirt or debris. Clogged filters can result in blockages that force your heating unit to work harder to achieve an ideal temperature for your home. This can cause unnecessary wear and tear on your heating unit and cause higher energy bills. It can also result in overheating, which can lead to a premature breakdown of your heater.
In addition, dirty filters can negatively impact indoor air quality and invite mold or other pollutants. To avoid potential issues, replace your air filters every 1 to 3 months. Each month, inspect your filters using a flashlight. If you can see light through the filter, you can wait a little longer before changing it. If not, it’s time to replace the filter(s).
Pilot Light or Ignition Issues
Heating systems in California homes commonly use two types of ignition systems: pilot light ignition and electronic ignition. For example, the pilot light is responsible for igniting the burner in gas heaters so that the furnace can provide heat. But if your pilot light is experiencing problems like a cracked heat exchanger, loosened thermocouple, or faulty valve, it can fail to light the burner, and your furnace will no longer produce heat. Problems like a yellowish flame from your pilot light can also indicate safety hazards like natural gas leaks.
For newer electric heaters, hot surface ignitors generate heat through electricity to activate burners and allow the furnace to provide heating. Because these heaters depend on electricity, anything from faulty wiring to tripped circuit breakers can prevent the furnace from turning on properly.
Poor Circulation or Airflow
Limited airflow and poor circulation are other common problems associated with residential homes. Lack of airflow can result from an issue with the heating unit itself. The unit may have a defective motor or fan that inhibits heat output. Limited airflow from vents can also result from blockage or obstructions. Routine heating maintenance allows an HVAC professional to check the condition of your heater and vents to ensure no underlying issues.
Defective Ductwork
Ducts also play an essential role in transporting warm air from your heater or furnace to key spaces within your house. If there are holes or tears in your ductwork, however, warm air can “leak” or seep into unfinished areas of your home. This can cause your heating equipment to take much longer to heat your home, drawing more energy from the grid and driving up utility costs. The accumulation of air in unfinished spaces can also cause backdrafts that result in hot or cold spots in various rooms.
Unusual Smells or Noises
Strange odors or sounds are other issues that can occur within heating systems. At times, an unusual smell may be temporary or minor. For example, when you first turn on your furnace at the beginning of the season, you may smell a mild singed or scorched odor as the heater burns away any dust or debris accumulated during the dormant season. This burning smell should dissipate within a few minutes. However, persistent smells can indicate underlying problems with the system.
For instance, an ozone smell can signify problems with electric elements, and a burning plastic smell can indicate that wiring within your unit has melted. Musty smells may result from bacteria somewhere inside the system, and a rotten egg odor may even signify a carbon monoxide leak. Similarly, strange noises coming from your heating system are hard to ignore. Banging, rattling, shrieking, or whistling indicate mechanical issues or loose components in the unit. For example, your heating appliance may have a worn belt or defective bearings.
Short Cycling
Short cycling means that a heater or furnace turns on and off too quickly within a brief period. This can result in an inefficient operation that fails to keep your house warm. It can also increase wear and tear on your heating appliance and cause a spike in utility bills. Short cycling can result from causes ranging from erroneous thermostat readings to air leaks, so it is important to allow a professional to assess the underlying cause so that your heating appliance does not wear out prematurely.
Outdated Equipment
According to the Department of Energy, the average life expectancy of a heater or furnace is 15-20 years. The lifespan of a furnace can depend on its initial quality and proper maintenance throughout its lifetime. Furnaces that have been neglected or poorly maintained can show signs of aging within 10 years. Investing in a newer unit often makes more sense if you have an older unit and notice frequent breakdowns or repairs. Installing an energy-efficient unit can save more money in the long run, and there are usually tax-credit incentives for buying ENERGY STAR-certified products.
Contact Us Today
Heating and cooling issues can disrupt your daily routine, especially as your household prepares for the coldest or warmest months of the year. Fortunately, our HVAC technicians can provide simple solutions to the most common problems. Oak Island Heating and Air Conditioning offers heating and cooling services for homes in San Marcos, CA, and the surrounding areas. We conduct inspections and repairs for malfunctioning systems. We also offer installation services, such as installing new furnaces, heat pumps, air conditioners, and ductless mini-split systems to ensure your home stays comfortable.
Additionally, we can help you set up a smart thermostat or evaluate your household’s indoor air quality. We offer maintenance agreements, so you never have to worry about missing a recommended tune-up again. We offer financing on approved credit if you ever decide to purchase a new heater or cooling unit. No matter the issue, we are here to help you. Contact Oak Island Heating and Air Conditioning today for all your residential heating needs.
