There are many potential issues with heating systems, especially if they’ve been installed recently. Even if you’re not particularly handy or have never installed a heater before, you can probably figure out which ones are likely based on your inspection. However, it’s important to understand what these issues mean so that they can be addressed quickly. Even if you don’t think you have any of these problems, it’s best to have them checked out so that they don’t become a serious problem in the future. Here are some common heating problems that you may encounter if you own or rent an apartment or house in Austin.

Inadequate Air Flow

One of the most common problems with heating systems is inadequate air flow. This is often caused by a blockage in the ductwork, which can be caused by debris, dust, or even insects. This is a serious problem and should be corrected as soon as possible. If you experience an insufficient flow of air, your system will not be able to heat your home properly. This can also cause other issues, including carbon monoxide leaks and an increased risk of fire. If you suspect that this issue is affecting you, contact a heating technician as soon as possible. They can inspect your system and repair any problems that they find.

Worn Out Components

Another common problem with heating systems is that they are simply worn out. This can happen to any system, regardless of the age. Worn out components include the blower motor, the air filter, and the thermostat. It’s important to replace these parts as soon as they start to show signs of wear and tear. The cost of new parts will vary depending on the specific model and brand, but it’s important to replace them as soon as they start to break down. Otherwise, they can cause a serious issue, such as carbon monoxide leaks or a reduction in air flow. If you notice that one of these components is starting to show signs of wear and tear, it’s a good idea to contact a heating technician to have them replaced as soon as possible.

Inadequate Air Quality

Another common issue with heating systems is that they do not provide enough fresh air. This is a problem that can be caused by a variety of issues, including a faulty air filter or a broken ductwork. If your system is providing inadequate air quality, it will not be able to keep you warm during the winter. This can be a serious issue, especially if you have young children or pets. If you notice that your heating system is not providing enough fresh air, it’s a good idea to contact a heating technician as soon as possible. They can inspect your system and replace any broken ductwork or faulty filters.

Excessive Noise and Vibrations

Another issue that can occur with heating systems is excessive noise and vibrations. This can be caused by an improperly sized or placed ductwork, or by a system that is running on the wrong setting. If you notice that your system is producing excessive noise or vibrations, it’s a good idea to contact a heating technician as soon as possible. They can inspect your system and make any necessary adjustments to ensure that it is operating at the proper setting. This can help to reduce noise and vibrations, which can be distracting and irritating.

Carbon Monoxide Leaks

Finally, it is important to note that carbon monoxide leaks can occur with any heating system. This is especially true for systems that are installed in basements. If you have a carbon monoxide alarm in your home, you should always be on the lookout for leaks. This can be a serious issue, especially for people with young children or those who are sick. If you notice that your carbon monoxide alarm has gone off, it’s a good idea to contact a heating technician as soon as possible. They can inspect your system and make any necessary repairs to ensure that carbon monoxide is not leaking into your home.

Summing up

When it comes to heating systems, there are many potential problems to deal with. However, there are also many ways to avoid these problems. You can install a new system, repair an existing one, or replace a faulty component. Regardless of which option you choose, it’s important to have it inspected and serviced by a heating technician as soon as possible. This can help to ensure that your system is running smoothly and that you are getting the most out of your investment.

Frequently Asked Question

We recommend service be performed once a year at a minimum, especially before winter. Some people have their HVAC units serviced spring and fall to prepare for the coming heat of summer or in the fall to prepare for winter. Proper maintenance will prolong the life of your HVAC unit.

  • When Home: 68-70 degrees Fahrenheit
  • When Sleeping: 65 degrees Fahrenheit
  • When You're Away: 65 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Adjust thermostat in 5-8 degree increments
  • Install a Wood Burning Stove
  • Utilize Fire in Fireplace and Block Chimney When Not in Use
  • Make Sure All Doors and Windows Are Properly Sealed
  • Cook often
  • Install Insulated Curtain Liners to Trap Heat
  • Allow as Much Sunlight to Hit Home as Possible via Landscaping
  • Use your curtains
  • Use timers on your central heating
  • Move your sofa
  • Maximise your insulation
  • Wrap up warm
  • Turn down the dial
  • Block out the draughts
  • Install thermostatic radiator valves
According to experts at the Energy Saving Trust, the idea it's cheaper to leave the heating on low all day is a myth. They're clear that having the heating on only when you need it is, in the long run, the best way to save energy, and therefore money. You will also want to have someone perform regular heating maintenance on your system at least once a year.
Turning the heat down eliminates these issues, while still reducing the amount of energy you use. You can save 10% off of your heating bill for every 10° you lower your thermostat.
  • Opt for Plug-In Energy Saving Electric Radiators. 
  • Dry Clothes with a Heated Airer
  • Use Electric Blankets & Heated Throws
  • A Winter Duvet is a Must
  • Draught-Proof the Home
  • Insulate your home
  • Choose Carpets & Rugs Over Solid Floors
  • Put 3-4 candles on a tray and light them up.
  • Position two bricks on either side of the tray and two behind the tray
  • Take the ceramic bowl and put it upside down on the tray
  • Place the small fan on the bricks behind the tray
  • Turn on the fan, and your setup is complete
In fact, leaving your heat on all day can actually cost you much more than turning it off every now and then. Heat tends to diffuse, so the high heat in your home will diffuse to areas of low heat outside the home during the winter. So even when you have your furnace on, your home is always losing a little bit of heat.
Keeping your home at a constant temperature generally means that your heating system will run constantly to meet it. This means that your furnace or air conditioner may run when you're asleep, at work, or out of the house. This wastes more energy than the minimal amount that you might save by having it constantly run.
As long as you close the doors so the cold air doesn't seep into the rest of the house, you will save money by turning off the radiators in unused rooms. By doing so, you'll prevent the water in the system from running through that particular radiator.