Most times, homeowners realize the importance of HVAC maintenance when wrestling with a malfunctioning heater. But while the effects of a broken heater might be readily noticeable, an underperforming heater system might not be so obvious. By the time someone realizes the HVAC unit needs servicing, property owners might have already paid the price in utility bill increases. So, stay alert for changes in your heater’s performance compared to last year, and consider these reasons as to why your heater may be underperforming. To schedule heater maintenance and repairs contact our HVAC repair company today!
Component Malfunction
Most heaters produce some minimal noise when turned on — caused by the turning fan belt or burning ignition light. But when the noise level becomes deafening, it may be a sign of a component malfunction. In particular, repeated banging noises could mean the pilot light is out and that the furnace is struggling to output heat. In the case of electronic furnaces, loud sounds may be a sign that the engine is loose inside the furnace. To remediate a faulty component, schedule a furnace repair right away.
Dirty Filter
One of the most common reasons for heater inefficiency is a dirty filter. When enough debris and grime find their way into your heater's filter, airflow becomes severely restricted, which causes your heater to work harder and use more energy to output warm air. Worse yet, if your heating system overheats as a result of the added workload, the built-in limit switch could activate and shut down the furnace entirely. For optimal performance, upgrade to high-efficiency furnace filters and replace them at least every 90 days and be sure to take advantage of all the HVAC services we offer at Spoor's Heating & Air Conditioning.
Defective Thermostat
Notice the heater cycling between on and off far too often? It may be a sign that the thermostat is defective or set improperly. While a faulty thermostat, digital or analog, is unlikely to cause a furnace to stop working, it can still impact your heater’s ability to operate efficiently. Check your thermostat regularly for any indications that it may be malfunctioning. In particular, pay close attention to the thermostat’s reading and, if possible, compare it to that of a different thermostat in the home.
Wrong-Sized Heater
Increases to your household size or additions to your property can also impact your heater’s performance. Having more people and more space to heat means furnaces have to work harder for every room to remain nice and toasty. If your furnace is not big enough to account for the added workload, you may notice a significant decrease in performance. Schedule heating and furnace services to ensure your heater matches the needs of your growing household.