The winter in February 2021 brought record-breaking cold temperatures for large areas of the central United States. While the weather was unseasonably warm in December 2021, by the new year, more brutal cold fronts hit the US.
While the weather plays around like a yo-yo, your heating and cooling system works hard to control the temperature of your house. The middle of a cold snap would be a disappointing time to realize your home has a broken heater.
Do you know the signs of a broken heater so you can be vigilant in maintaining a toasty temperature? This post will walk you through five signs that your central heating is broken. Bundle up and keep reading!
- Your House Isn’t Heating Up
This might seem like a given, but lack of heat doesn’t always mean that the heater is broken. If you experienced a power surge, the breaker may have tripped and shut off the heater. Also, double-check your thermostat to make sure it’s set correctly.
If you check both of these things and the heater still isn’t working, this is a sign the heater needs maintenance.
- You Hear Unusual Noises
While some heaters are louder when they operate than others, irregular or unusual noises are a sign of a broken central heater.
Clanking, rumbling, or clicking sounds that you are not used to should be an immediate sign to call in heater repair.
- Your Power Bills Soar
Your utility bills will naturally wax and wane according to the seasons.
However, you may notice an unexpected swell in your bill that does not coincide with a change in the weather. This would be an instant red flag that the heat is broken in your house.
- Heater Shuts Down Randomly
Some models of heaters come with built-in safety features that prevent fires. If these heaters detect a problem, they shut down automatically.
The shut down may be the result of something minor like a dirty air filter. However, the shutdown could also be the result of a more serious problem like failing wiring or a broken control board.
- Something Smells Suspicious
A mildewy, “dirty sock” smell hints at bacteria in the coils of the heater. A sulfuric, “rotten eggs” smell emitting from a gas heater could indicate a gas leak. A burnt smell tends to reveal frayed wires or a failing motor.
Any of these smells should tip you off to trouble in your heater.
What Do You Do?
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call a heater repair service. Look for a company like Lyons Air & Heat that offers emergency, same-day, and next-day services. You can also try to repair the heater by viewing the heater manual available for free on Manualsnet.
Once they repair your heater, schedule regular maintenance checks to keep it running smoothly!
Look Out for These Broken Heater Warning Signs
With these five things in mind, you’re ready to detect a broken heater at the very first signs. With diligence and a good repair service at the ready, you’ll stay toasty warm all winter!
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