- Problems with modern heating systems are rare, but when they do persist, you can often troubleshoot and correct them yourself---or hire a professional. Before you begin troubleshooting your heating system, make sure to read your heating system manual. This will help you look for and recognize potential problems.
- The first step to troubleshooting potential problems in a heating system is to identify the fuel source. Follow the fuel supply piping from the system to find the source, which could be a gas meter, LP gas tank or oil tank. When you are tracing the pipe, you want to make sure that the pipe isn't frozen or has leaks. Following the pipes will show you how the heat is distributed via your heating system and how the warm air leaves your system and returns back to it. If you are unable to recognize this path, you will be unable to notice any potential problems in your heating system.
- You can also troubleshoot the system by making sure the thermostat is set to the desired temperature. It is possible you have a defective thermostat. Compare the temperature in your thermostat with the temperature of another thermostat and make sure that it isn't out of calibration. Calibration is making sure that the temperature is correct in your unit. If necessary, re-calibrate and correct any inaccuracies. You also might need to relight the pilot light and hit the reset button in the heating system. Be sure to check the fuse on the furnace; make sure it isn't broken. Also test the transformer and all wiring connections. Set a multimeter on the AC volt scale, which will test the voltage in the transformer. If there is low voltage or no voltage then your transformer will need to be replaced.
