HVAC Not Heating? Let’s See What It Could Be
Is your HVAC system not heating the way you expect it to? It’s a pain when your temperature starts to drop and your HVAC unit fails to keep you warm. Several factors can cause your HVAC heat not to turn on at all or blowing cold air. However, figuring out what’s causing the issue is important, whether it’s a thermostat problem or gas furnace problems, to make your home comfortable again.
In this guide, we will discuss some of the most common reasons why your HVAC system may not have been working well at all – i.e. the heat pump, gas valve, or furnace filter. Additionally, we will even provide troubleshooting tips you can try before seeking assistance from an HVAC technician. These steps can help get your system back on track and keep your home warm, whether you’re checking your thermostat, or checking for gas leaks.
If you are having trouble with your heat system, check out the steps below to get it running again!
Common Reasons Your HVAC System Isn’t Heating Properly
When your HVAC system isn’t providing the warmed air you expect, it can be both frustrating and uncomfortable, especially as temperatures drop. Understanding the underlying causes can help you determine whether it’s something you can fix or if you need to call in a professional. Here are some common reasons your heating system may not be working properly:
Gas Furnace Issues: If your gas furnace isn’t working, it could be that the pilot light isn’t functioning, the ignition is malfunctioning, or you have a gas supply problem. If your furnace won’t start, it won’t create heat for your home and it’ll be chilly and unpleasant.
Heat Pump Problems: heat pump is essential for maintaining the desired temperature, but if it’s not functioning as it should, it may be due to issues with the outdoor unit or thermostat. If your heat pump is blocked or frozen, the system won’t be able to get the air out of the outdoor space and pull in the heat it needs to heat your home.
Dirty Air Filters: If your system’s air filter is dirty, it will restrict airflow, making it harder for your system to push warm air into your home. If the filter becomes clogged, your HVAC unit will work inefficiently or it may even completely shut down to prevent damage.
Thermostat Malfunctions: Problems can sometimes lie with your thermostat settings. There are instances when your HVAC system won’t get the signal to turn on the heat if your thermostat isn’t set properly or experiences a power problem. A fast remedy to try before finding more complicated remedies, is to check the thermostat and make sure it’s set to heat up at the correct temperature. Sometimes a simple reset will suffice.
These are just a few of the most common reasons your HVAC system might not be heating properly. In the next sections, we’ll walk through specific troubleshooting tips and solutions to help you diagnose and resolve the issue.
Checking Your Thermostat
When your HVAC system isn’t heating properly, the first and simplest step is to check the thermostat. Often, issues can be traced back to incorrect temperature settings or power problems, and a quick check may solve the problem without any further hassle.
Make sure the Thermostat is on Heating Mode
Check to make sure your thermostat is set to “heat”, make sure the temp is set above the current room temperature, and that the program is actually occurring at all. Your HVAC system may not turn on because you incorrectly set the thermostat to “cool” or even “off.”
Check for Power Issues
If your thermostat is battery-operated, it might need new batteries. However, If it’s hardwired, just check to see if it has power by checking your circuit breaker or fuse box for tripped breakers. If the thermostat doesn’t have power, it won’t be able to talk to your heating system.
Verify the Temperature and Settings
The temperature settings should be checked and changed to be sure they’re programmed correctly. Double check that your programmable thermostat is set with the proper schedule and that the unit isn’t in a “hold” mode which could keep the unit from reaching your desired temperature.
Look for Wiring or Display Problems
If you see that your thermostat’s screen is blank, or that there’s something wrong with its wiring, it’s time to call an HVAC technician. Wires can become loose or faulty, which can prevent the system from turning on and off properly, and a HVAC professional can move in and inspect and repair the wires.
Ensuring that your thermostat is set up correctly is a quick and easy fix that can resolve your HVAC heating issues without additional troubleshooting. If your heating system still isn’t working after adjusting the thermostat, it may be time to inspect other components of your HVAC system.
Inspecting the Furnace and Gas Supply
If your thermostat settings are correct but your HVAC system still isn’t producing heat, the next step is to check your gas furnace and gas supply. Issues with these components are common reasons why an HVAC system might fail to generate the warm air you need.
Check the Gas Valve
It is important that the gas valve supplies fuel to your furnace. See that it’s in the “open” position. If your furnace is partially blocked or closed, it won’t receive the gas it needs to ignite and make heat. You should contact an HVAC technician if you’re not quite sure of the position or functionality of the valve.
Make Sure There Is No Gas Interruption Supply
Gas supply interruption will lead to the unnecessary operation of your gas furnace. Check your gas service is active and that you can see no disruptions to your gas line. Use your gas company or an HVAC professional if an issue is occurring that you cannot control.
Inspect for Gas Leaks
If you smell gas around your furnace or your gas supply line, it could be a leak. You should not ignore gas leaks. If you suspect a gas leak, turn off your system and phone an HVAC technician, or emergency services—the gas leak is not something you want to attempt to fix yourself.
What to do if you smell natural gas
Check the Furnace’s Pilot Light or Ignition System
The culprit may be a malfunctioned pilot light on older gas furnaces. Ensure the pilot light is lit, and that it’s working properly. If you have a newer model, make sure your ignition system is ok — if it’s broken, your furnace won’t light. Either way, you’re gonna need a professional to troubleshoot further.
By inspecting your gas valve, gas supply, and furnace components, you can often pinpoint why your HVAC system isn’t turning on. If these elements appear to be functioning correctly and your system still isn’t working, continue to the next section for additional troubleshooting tips.
When to Call an HVAC Technician
Troubleshooting your HVAC system usually solves minor problems but it really isn’t in your best interest to try to solve major problems yourself, there are times when it is best to call in a professional HVAC technician. This type of work can also be dangerous to your safety, can cause excessive repair costs or even do harm to your heating system if you’re not an expert. Here’s when you should leave the job to an expert:
Furnace Repair Needs
If your gas furnace still isn’t working after checking the pilot light, ignition system, and gas supply, it’s time to call a professional. Issues like a broken blower motor, faulty heat exchanger, or problems with the control board can require specialized tools and training to fix safely and effectively. A certified HVAC technician will be able to diagnose and carry out necessary furnace repairs.
Gas Leaks
If you suspect a gas leak you shouldn’t try to fix the problem yourself. Gas leaks can be dangerous, so it must be dealt with by a professional. Shut off your HVAC, clear out of the home, and call emergency services until it is safely handled.
Electrical or Persistent Thermostat Issues
If your troubleshooting doesn’t solve the problem and you don’t experience wiring problems or circuit breaker problems, then an HVAC technician should be able to conduct an electrical diagnosis. Electrical components are dangerous in the hands of someone who isn’t experienced or trained.
Heat Pump or Furnace Isn’t Responding
If you’ve checked the basic settings and components and your heat pump or furnace is still not working, there could be a bigger mechanical or electrical problem. Various compressor fan issues, refrigerant leaks or damaged sensors need to be diagnosed and repaired by professionals.
Troubleshooting Complex Systems
If the simple fixes such as cleaning the furnace filter or resetting the thermostat don’t resolve your heating issue, there could be something deeper wrong with your HVAC system. They can take on the system as a whole, look at parts you do not have access to, to view it all, and to give you a complete solution.
Conclusion
When your HVAC system isn’t heating properly, it can be frustrating, especially during the colder months. By following the steps outlined in this guide—such as checking your thermostat, inspecting the gas valve and gas supply, and cleaning or replacing a furnace filter—you can often solve the problem yourself. Regular maintenance, like changing filters and ensuring your system is free of debris, can also prevent future issues and keep your heating system running efficiently.
However, if your system still isn’t working after these troubleshooting tips, it’s important to know when to call a professional HVAC technician. Problems like furnace repair, complex electrical issues, or potential gas leaks require expert attention to ensure the safety and longevity of your system.
At Keep Cool Heating & Cooling LLC, we’re here to help with all your heating needs. Whether it’s routine maintenance or an emergency HVAC repair, our experienced team is ready to get your system back up and running. Don’t wait—schedule an appointment today to ensure your home stays warm and comfortable!
