Winter Heating Problems Your HVAC Contractor Needs to Fix

Carrier Whole Home Humidifier

Your heating system doesn’t have to break down for you to experience home heating problems during the winter months. Here are some common winter heating issues that command attention from your HVAC contractor so you stay warm and your HVAC system works at its best.

Thermostat not working properly. If you have the thermostat set at its usual temperature but your house is cold, it could be the thermostat. Check for faulty wiring or poor calibration. We recommend replacing an older thermostat with a programmable or smart thermostat for greater energy efficiency (which saves money over time).

Inconsistent heating. Dirty filters and vents, and dirty or damaged coils will surely curtail your HVAC system’s ability to heat and cool as needed. Make sure you have routine fall and spring maintenance checks, which include replacing the air filter and checking and cleaning the coils. At Bloomfield Cooling, Heating & Electric, we offer maintenance services and plans for forced hot air, steam boilers and hot water boilers, as well as mini split (ductless) systems.

Uncomfortably dry air. Dry air can be uncomfortable for people with respiratory issues and over time, can damage furniture, wood flooring and trim, and even your electronics or collectibles. Adding a whole-house humidifier to your forced hot air system will add just the right amount of humidity to help the air feel warmer throughout your home (so you can turn down the thermostat a bit) and keep you more comfortable.

Frequent cycling. If your heating system is turning on and off frequently, it’s a sign of either a clogged filter or thermostat that’s on the fritz.

Heat pump malfunction. If your HVAC system uses an exterior heat pump, winter weather can present problems for the unit due to snow, ice and wind. Due to these factors, your heat pump may fail to defrost (units with automatic defrost settings are the way to go). The unit must be clear of frost and debris to work correctly. Beware of a broken fan motor, blocked coils, and frost buildup.

Pilot light problem. If your furnace’s pilot light isn’t on or its power source is not steady, your furnace won’t ignite. Check the pilot light and if it’s not working consistently, it could be the sensor is dirty or the assembly needs professional attention. If the pilot light is on but you’re still experiencing a loss of heat, you may have problems with the main burners, gas valves, control board, or flame sensor.

Checklist items for homeowners

Weatherization tips. Leaky windows and doors or insufficient insultation can sabotage your heating and air conditioning system. Apply caulk, door sweeps or weather stripping where needed, or consider adding insultation to walls and floors to improve weatherization. If the problem persists and rooms are cold, it could stem from your heating system.

Frozen pipes. Frozen or burst pipes will disrupt flow to your hydronic baseboard heaters, steam boiler, and hot water heater. Insulating water pipes will help avoid this, as will maintaining an indoor temperature of at least 55 degrees, allowing internal air flow throughout the house, and keeping the doors to an attached garage closed.

CO leaks. Please make sure you have carbon monoxide detectors installed on all floors of your home, especially if you have a system that is over 10 years old. This is a common problem for older heating systems. A cracked heat exchanger is often the underlying reason for these leaks; your certified HVAC technician can inspect it for defects. (Inadequate ventilation may also cause CO buildup.)

It is so important to have your HVAC system checked twice a year and for any problems to be taken care of right away. Proper checkups and timely repairs will keep your system running as expected, maintain good indoor air quality, and protect your family and your home from danger. Contact Bloomfield Cooling, Heating & Electric for a seasonal checkup or to troubleshoot problems you are having with your heat this winter, at info@bloomfieldcooling.com or 973-237-0505.