Your heating system works tirelessly to keep you warm and cozy, but as it ages it may require repairs or service. Energy bills that suddenly skyrocket are often an indicator that your heater requires servicing, saving both time and money in the process. A professional can ensure your unit is running effectively to save both, but the following problems and solutions should give you a good head start.

1. Short Cycles

An intermittent heating system that turns on and off frequently for short durations could be experiencing “short cycling.” While occasional short cycling is normal in properly sized systems, too much short cycling can result in poor temperature management; excess strain on electrical and lubrication systems; as well as energy waste.

According to information garnered from this thread, problems related to dirty filters or clogged evaporator coils can lead to short cycles in furnaces, leading to frequent shutdowns. A dirty filter restricts return air into the furnace, which may overheat and shorten its cycle time; filters should be changed every few months or sooner if you have pets or allergies that require frequent attention.

Corrosion of the flame sensor can also contribute to short cycling. Rust or soot build-up on its surface prevents it from accurately reading heat generated from exhaust gasses, leading to overheating in your system. For maximum protection and performance, have a professional inspect your flame sensor regularly for signs of corrosion.

Common HVAC system issues include an improperly-sized system and refrigerant leaks. Although these require professional repair services, you can reduce their likelihood by scheduling biannual maintenance with an HVAC specialist.

Furnaces located near vents can also present challenges, particularly if those vents are closed off by furniture and prevent newly heated air from escaping into living spaces, prompting your heating system to continually turn on and off in an attempt to reach those rooms with warm air. A simple fix that will increase both energy efficiency and comfort!

2. Poor Air Quality

Poor indoor quality can have devastating repercussions for health. From pollution and exhaust to radon and paint fumes, bad quality sources abound – including headaches, nasal irritation, fatigue and breathing difficulties. Poor quality may trigger uncomfortable symptoms like headaches, nasal irritation, fatigue and breathing difficulties which all have the potential to create unpleasant experiences for us all.

Wood stoves and furnaces are two appliances commonly found in households that contribute to poor quality, polluting indoor air with soot and carbon monoxide gas, which is colorless, odorless and potentially lethal in enclosed spaces without proper ventilation.

Poor indoor humidity levels contribute to this issue as well. Too little humidity in your home can result in dry skin, sneezing and itchy eyes; while too much can foster mold growth and increase asthmatic symptoms.

As part of your overall approach to improving indoor quality, regularly cleaning and maintaining all household appliances as well as using non-toxic cleaning products and natural ventilation methods is the key. Make sure your HVAC system is regularly serviced.

Lots of these illnesses are easily remedied by professionals. If you are experiencing symptoms of poor indoor quality such as dry skin and itchy eyes, respiratory irritation, chronic coughing or fatigue, contact Cornerstone Electrical Services immediately for an indoor quality evaluation. You can visit them by using the info below:.

3. Uneven Heating

Uneven heating is a widespread issue that may stem from various causes, from issues with your ductwork to problems with the HVAC system itself or even structural flaws in your home. There are steps you can take yourself to address uneven heating before consulting an expert.

Blockage of air vents is often responsible for uneven heating in homes. Since most air vents are located either on the floor or walls, furniture and other objects can easily block them, disrupting the flow of heat throughout your entire house. To ensure adequate heat distribution throughout your home, ensure all vents remain unobstructed by making sure all are open and free from obstruction.

If your house utilizes what’s known as a zone control system to determine which rooms receive heated air, uneven heating often indicates defective control devices. Dampers that monitor temperatures and send signals back to a central thermostat regarding which rooms should receive heating can be installed in air ducts to monitor this process; should one become stuck either open or closed it could significantly decrease efficiency and therefore increase costs of your heating system.

Aging can also contribute to uneven heating. Over time, your unit may become less effective in producing heat, which could result in hot and cold spots throughout your house. If it is over 15 years old, now may be an opportune time to consider replacing it.

Regular maintenance and cleaning are vital in keeping your heating system in working condition and avoiding problems that lead to uneven heating. Be sure to schedule at least one annual tune-up and replace or clean out filters as needed; professionals will inspect ductwork and insulation to see if there are any potential issues that need addressing.