How to Troubleshoot Central Heating Problems
Troubleshooting a central heating system should be part of your overall maintenance program. Get to know the different parts of the central heating system and how they all work together to provide you with warm air. Once you understand how the system sounds and operates when working efficiently, you will be better able to detect when something has gone wrong. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Replacement fuse
- Clean air filter
- Screwdriver
- Lubricant
- Owner's manual
- Replacement fan belt
- Toothpick
Instructions
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1
Go to your main service panel and check for a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker if the heater is not kicking on. Replace a blown fuse with a new one or reset the tripped breaker, depending on the type of system you have.
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2
Inspect the air filter if the heater operates but doesn't seem to be working as efficiently as usual. Proper air flow is the lifeblood of a central heating system, and anything that obstructs that flow can cause it to work less effectively. Replace a dirty air filter with a new one or clean a reusable air filter.
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3
Go outside and look at the compressor unit. Look for anything that might be obstructing quality air flow such as overgrowth of surrounding vegetation or a foreign object falling into the unit and obstructing the ability of the fan to rotate. Open the top panel and remove any object obstructing the fan. Do not attempt to straighten out a bent blade because even minor damage to the blade can adversely affect performance. If the fan has damaged blades, replace the whole fan.
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Ensure that the fan is not frozen if you do not find a foreign object. Try moving the fan by hand; if it is difficult to move, lubricate it. Check your owner's manual for specific instructions on what type of lubricant to use on your specific model.
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Check the tension on the fan belt. Pressing down on the belt should result in the belt giving between 1/2 inch and 3/4 inch in slack. Consult the owner's manual if the belt is either too tight or too loose for directions on how to tighten or loosen it.
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Look for signs of damage to the fan belt like cracking, fraying or tears. Replace the fan belt if you find any of these signs. Take the belt to a hardware store to ensure you get the correct replacement belt.
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7
Ensure the pilot light is lit in a gas system. If the pilot lights up but won't stay lit, turn the adjustment screw so that the flame burns strongly enough to stay lit. If the pilot light won't come on at all, turn off the power to the heater and clean out the pilot orifices with a toothpick.
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Tips & Warnings
Turn off the power to the heating system before conducting any repairs.
References
- Photo Credit Comstock/Comstock/Getty Images
