How to Troubleshoot Your Central Heating

We’ve previously written on the Benefits of Fireplace Installation. But your property uses more than a fireplace to heat during the winter. Be sure to learn how to troubleshoot your central heating in order to keep it running.

1. Try a Cold Restart

No matter what type of heater you have or what type of issue you are experiencing, many issues can be fixed with a cold restart. Those of you with heaters powered by your electrical panel can do this yourself. Just find the panel and corresponding fuse switch for the central heat and air. Flip it off, wait a minute. Then power it back on. Think of it as the CTRL + ALT + Delete for central heating.

2. Check the Thermostat

The thermostat is the control panel for your heater. It tells it when to power on and off. Check and change the batteries if it uses them. You may also have a professional check the wiring if it runs this way. Smart thermostats are a good option because they can tell you when the batteries are low or a number of other issues. You can also check the temperature the thermostat reads against a traditional thermometer to ensure it is calibrated correctly.

3. Replace the Filters

Almost all modern central heating units use air filters. They must be replaced an average of every six months. If not, the unit may not work as intended. In fact, it could stop working all together. Additionally, properties with lots of occupants, pets, smokers, odors, dust, etc can find they need to have their filters replaced more frequently.

4. Try a Reset

Some central heating units actually have a reset button for just such an occasion. Check your owner’s manual for instructions on how to do so. Those of you without the manual handy may check the unit itself for make and model number. You may then visit the manufacturer site for instructions. You may find a guide on how to restart a central gas heater by visiting The SF Gate.