If your heater fails or is behaving strangely, your best bet is to call an HVAC repair company. They'll send a technician to your home. That technician will look over your system, figure out what is wrong, and give you an estimate for the necessary repairs. This process will go more smoothly if you're able to share some relevant information with the HVAC company when you make that initial call. Here's the most important info to share.
Is your heater working at all?
In other words, when you try to turn the heat on, what happens? Do you hear the heat start to kick on, but then it shuts off? Maybe the fan still blows air through the vents, but the air never gets warm. This information will help the HVAC contractor narrow down whether you have an issue with the burner or blower component of your heating system, which will help ensure they bring the right parts and tools for the job.
When did the problem start?
If this is something that has been going on for a while but recently got worse, tell the HVAC contractor. On the contrary, if the problem seems to have arisen out of nowhere, that's something you should share, too. Some HVAC problems, like worn ball bearings, develop over time. Others, like faulty ignition switches, appear all at once. So this information can give your contractor a much clearer picture of what might be going on.
How old is your heating system?
Most HVAC companies put a sticker with the installation date on a heater when they install it. Look for such a sticker, and tell the HVAC contractor the date. Tell them what make and model the heater is, too. This will help ensure they bring the right parts for the job. Older furnaces often require different parts than newer ones, even if they are the same brand.
Have you changed the air filter?
Sometimes furnace problems just come down to a plugged and restrictive air filter. Try changing your filter, and see if that solves the problem. Then, let your HVAC contractor know you have done this, and describe how your furnace responded — if at all. This information can help them narrow down what's wrong.
If your heater has failed and needs repairs, make sure you give your HVAC contractor plenty of information to work with. The information above is a great start.
Contact a company like ABCO Heating & Cooling for more information.
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