Common Causes of Inadequate Heating in Homes
Winter can be difficult enough without having to deal with repairs around the home. However, when the heater is running but simply can’t keep up with frigid temperatures, it causes a perfect storm for homeowners. Not only will a malfunctioning heater cause stress to the budget for repairs, but it will also run up utility bills as everyone in the home cranks the thermostat in an attempt to get comfortably warm.
Problems happen with all equipment in the home, but knowing the causes of problems can help homeowners make educated decisions about repairs. Here is a quick guide from a local heater repair service that can help homeowners understand the causes of inadequate heating in the home.
Inappropriately Sized Furnace or Heater
The first and maybe most obvious problem contributing to inadequate heating in the home is a furnace or heater that isn’t sized properly for the home it is meant to heat. Like air conditioners, heaters have a maximum capacity that limits how many cubic feet of a home’s air it can heat at a time. If this capacity is exceeded, the heater will run long cycles and cost an arm and leg on monthly bills.
Some of the causes that contribute to heaters that are improperly sized are:
- Additions or renovations to the house that adds square footage that the heater wasn’t designed to handle.
- The heater installation company poorly sized the heater.
- Settling of insulation in the walls and attic over time.
- Outdoor air infiltration through outlets, doorways, windows, and fixtures.
Issues with the Thermostat
Without a reliable thermostat, a heater is useless. A heater won’t heat the house until the thermostat tells it to, so to keep the house warm, the thermostat must be in good working order and read the ambient temperature correctly.
Over time a thermostat may lose its ability to read the temperature accurately. This may be due to dust buildup around the thermostat or simply because of age. In some cases, a new thermostat installation should be considered. Newer smart thermostats supplied by reliable thermostat services companies can restore lost heating power to a home and allow homeowners to more efficiently control their heater.
Blocked Airflow Around the Unit
Heating a home is all about airflow. In any unit, proper and free airflow is necessary to distribute warm air around the house. That’s why it’s a good idea to check vents for obstructions and ensure that furnaces have unobstructed airflow for their combustion.
In the case of heat pumps, the outdoor unit must remain clear to allow for efficient heat transfer during the winter. If leaves or other debris are allowed to build up around the unit, a massive loss in efficiency will be evident. Scheduling semi-annual service can ensure that outdoor coils don’t become fouled with lint and small debris. Additionally, maintaining lawn maintenance by keeping leaves and landscaping away from the outdoor units can ensure continued efficiency.
About Anytime Plumbing, Inc
People looking for peace of mind about their heaters should call Anytime Plumbing, Inc for furnace repairs and installation. Skilled technicians offer unbeatable customer service and custom solutions for heating problems. Schedule a free estimate for guaranteed heating service today!
