Winter is a cold and unforgiving season; the low temperatures characteristic of the season can make comfort impossible for certain households. Thus, heating systems are often in heavy use during this period, stabilizing indoor temperatures so that the occupants don’t freeze their pants off or get sick. Like all forms of machinery, however, heating systems can be susceptible to breakdowns and flaws, and homeowners should be able to respond to such problems quickly before the cold becomes too unbearable.

Heating systems are an essential component in maintaining the comfort levels of a home during winter. The cold weather can be too much for some, and there’s always the risk of freezing. Fortunately, heaters can balance indoor temperatures and keep homeowners safe from the glacial conditions. 

As the winter chill dawns upon your neighborhood, your central heating system will see the most frequent use than any other time of the year. However, using your heater immediately after its long hibernation without checking it first might get it into trouble in the middle of the season. Here are some basic heater troubleshooting tips you can try:

Initial Inspection

The most notable sign of a failing or faulty heater is uneven or insufficient heat. If you notice it, the first place you should check is the thermostat, since it might simply have reset or someone might have adjusted it. Otherwise, check the main electrical panel, as your heating system might have blown a fuse or tripped a circuit breaker.

Air Filter

Should you notice that the heater is indeed working, just not efficiently, you might have a problem with dust or debris. In this case, turn off the thermostat and check the air filter for any obstruction. Clean and replace the filters, or you might have to buy a new one entirely.

Condenser

Look for your heating system’s condenser (in most central heaters, this should be located outside). Check the condenser for air flow problems like you did with the air filters, and clean it accordingly as well. There might be weeds or vines working their way through your condenser; make sure they are removed.

There are several types of heating systems used in homes today, and each has its own pros and cons. In choosing a heating system for your home, you should consider how one works and its suitability to your home or space. A reputable heating contractor can help you make the right decision by evaluating your space and determining the amount and type of heating you may need.

The most popular heating system in the country is the forced air system. This works by heating air in a furnace, then distributing the heated air around the house through ducts and registers. It is an inexpensive system that may also be used for cooling, and has the highest Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) among all heating systems. It also allows air to be filtered, humidified, and dehumidified as needed.

However, a forced air system needs regular maintenance to keep it working efficiently. Its distribution system can also facilitate the spreading of allergens, hence constant filtration and purification is needed. Another disadvantage of the forced air system is the use of ductwork that could occupy a lot of space in walls, and may need to be hidden for aesthetic purposes. Likewise, the system's furnace fans can generate a lot of noise that may be disturbing to residents.