Now that Minnesota homeowners are kicking on their heat for the season, some are running into a problem: No heat! With Minneapolis’s average daily low temperatures dipping into the frigid 20s, the last thing you want is a cold home. There are a multitude of issues that can prevent warm air circulation. So, here’s how to fix some common home heating issues this winter.
Understanding Your Heating System
There are three main types of heating: forced air, radiant, and baseboard heating. Understanding which type your home is heated by is the start to determining your heating troubles. Each type has different internal and external components. So, determine your heating unit type before diagnosing your system.
- Forced air: Homes with a furnace or heat pump have forced air heating, which uses a blower fan to push hot air through a duct system.
- Radiant: Homes with a boiler are heated with radiant heating, which transfers heat directly into panels within the floors, ceilings, and walls of the house.
- Baseboard: Homes with a heating system along the bottoms of walls that heats each room individually via rising heat have baseboard heating.
Common Heating Problems In Rogers, MN
Homeowners generally suffer from a few common heating problems in Minneapolis and the surrounding areas. Some people might experience irregular, uneven heating, while others notice no heat production at all.
Irregular home heating
- Leaking hot air: Is your heating system in pristine condition, but is your home still chilly? In these cases, there may be an insulation problem. First, you’ll need to identify the location of the insulation gap, which might show as a cold spot in the room. Then all air leaks should be sealed with weatherstripping or caulk to ensure all warm air is maintained.
- Thermostat troubles: A broken thermostat might also be the culprit of your uneven heating. Check your current thermostat setting, as it might not signal the correct temperature to your heating unit. If possible, calibrate the thermostat and reset the system for best results.
- Blocked vents: Forced air heating issues might be caused by a simple blocked vent. Before calling a technician, check if your rugs, furniture, or curtains are thwarting proper airflow throughout the rooms.
No home heating
- Pilot light out: Ignition or pilot light problems might be the cause of your cold home. First, inspect to see if any obstructions or dirt buildup are preventing a strong flame. If there are none, the pilot light may need to be relit, which is a quick fix. Turn the gas control knob to “pilot”, hold the reset button for 30 seconds, and hold a match to the area, then turn the control knob back to the “on” position.
- Thermostat problems: A malfunctioning thermostat could also induce a complete stop in heating. Dead batteries are a simple problem that stops heating. If so, refer to the manufacturing manual and replace the batteries. Wiring issues may be another reason for no heating. Loose or damaged wires can disrupt communication to your heating unit, so consult an HVAC mechanic to remedy electrical problems safely.
- Malfunctioning blower motor: Blower motors in forced air heating systems are critical to hot air circulation, so your rooms don’t receive any warmth when they malfunction. Any number of things may cause a broken blower motor, so ensure that the belt, capacitor, and fan are all working correctly. If not, a heating technician can settle the problem by replacing the parts.
- Gas supply issues: Gas combustion is essential to many forced air and radiant heating systems. So, when your home isn’t receiving an adequate gas supply, the pilot light, burner, and other firing components can’t produce heat. Working alongside gas has several health risks, so let your gas utility company know about the supply issues and contact an HVAC technician for an accurate diagnosis.
Invest In Regular Maintenance.
We couldn’t recommend annual HVAC maintenance more. A routine heating check-up is the best method to prevent future breakdowns and repair needs. During a regular maintenance appointment, your technician will inspect all electrical, combustible, and venting components to confirm they function efficiently and safely. Every common heating issue listed is prevented through regular maintenance, saving you stress and money in the long run.
When In Doubt, Seek Professional Help.
If these common heating problems don’t align with your home heating troubles, another underlying cause may exist. The best solution is to contact a local HVAC technician, who will diagnose and treat your heating issue. Enlisting the services of a skilled HVAC repairman is the best way to guarantee safe and reliable emergency furnace repairs and replacements.
Achieve A Warm And Comfortable Home With Emergency Furnace Repairs In Minneapolis.
With a decade of experience in Rogers, Minnesota, Mike’s Custom Mechanical is a go-to source for expert emergency furnace repairs. The coldest months of the winter season will be here soon, so guarantee your family a cozy home by scheduling a regular HVAC tune-up today. Call us at (763) 568-7148 or contact us here to discover our high-quality residential HVAC services for Minneapolis families and beyond.
