It's an unsettling feeling: the temperature drops outside, you crank up the heat, and… nothing happens. As a homeowner or small business owner, you rely on a functioning heater, and having it fail—especially when you have little experience with the technical parts—can be stressful. The good news is that many common heating issues have simple solutions you can check right now. Here's a professional, straightforward guide from the team at Prime HVAC and Electrical to help you understand your system and what to check before seeking assistance.
If you are experiencing a complete system failure, or if you smell gas or see sparks, stop troubleshooting immediately and call for assistance.
Don't wait for a breakdown to get help. Call us for immediate, professional service. We are ready to help you restore comfort and safety. Call (901) 676-7756 or schedule service instantly on our website.
The Heater Won't Turn On
One of the most frequent calls we get is about a heater that refuses to start. Often, the cause isn't a complex mechanical failure but a simple setting or power issue.
First, check your thermostat. This is the brain of your heating system.
- Is it set to "Heat"? Sometimes, the switch gets bumped to "Cool" or "Off."
- Is the temperature set high enough? Make sure the set temperature is at least a few degrees higher than the current room temperature.
- Do the batteries need changing? Many digital thermostats run on batteries. A dead battery can cause the screen to go blank or prevent the system from receiving commands.
Next, check the power to the unit. Your furnace, heat pump, or other heating system is connected to your electrical panel (the box with all the switches or breakers). A tripped circuit breaker will shut down the unit. Flip the breaker all the way to the "Off" position, and then firmly back to "On." If the breaker trips again right away, do not touch it and call a professional.
Why Isn't My Home Warm Enough?
If your heater is running but you're still cold, the problem is likely related to air or airflow. Your system needs to breathe and distribute warm air freely to work efficiently.
Blocked Vents and Filters
The most common reason for poor performance is a clogged air filter. The filter catches dust, pet hair, and debris to protect your furnace's internal components and maintain clean air. A heavily clogged filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder for less heat.
- Check the Air Filter: Pull out your filter and hold it up to the light to inspect it. If you can't see light through it, it needs to be replaced immediately. This is a maintenance task most homeowners can handle.
- Clear Vents and Registers: Check all the air registers (the metal grates) in your floors or walls. Ensure that no furniture, rugs, or curtains block them. A blocked vent can cause a pressure imbalance, resulting in reduced warmth in that area.
If you've checked these things and your house remains chilly, you may need a system tune-up or deeper inspection. For complex issues, such as low refrigerant in a heat pump or internal unit problems, it's time to call in professional HVAC services.
Dealing with Strange Noises or Smells
Your heating system should run quietly, with only the sound of air moving through the vents. If you hear new, loud, or strange sounds, pay attention.
- Loud Banging or Clanking: This is often a sign of a mechanical issue inside the unit. It could be a loose fan blade, an issue with the blower motor, or a problem inside the furnace.
- Screeching or Squealing: This noise typically indicates that a belt is worn out or a motor bearing is failing. These parts need professional replacement before they cause total system failure.
- Burning Dust Smell: This is a common occurrence when you first turn on your heating system for the season. Dust has settled on the heat exchanger over the summer and is burning off. The smell should go away within an hour. If the smell persists, or if you smell gas or burning wire/plastic, turn the system off immediately and call us.
We are a trusted, professional, and reliable HVAC company in Bartlett, TN, ready to handle all your heating and electrical needs. While simple checks can save you a service call, never hesitate to call in a pro when you feel unsafe or unsure. Our experienced technicians can diagnose and repair any complex heating issue quickly. Contact Prime HVAC and Electrical today at (901) 676-7756 or visit our website to schedule your service.