No one wants to wake up to a freezing home, especially when your heater is supposed to be doing its job. When the temperature drops in Woods Cross, a heater that suddenly stops blowing warm air is more than just inconvenient. It can disrupt your comfort and daily routine. Whether it’s getting the kids ready for school or preparing for a day at work, a cold house first thing in the morning adds stress you don’t need.
The good news is that some heating issues have simple solutions. Before assuming the worst, you can check a few things that might help restore heat. Below are troubleshooting steps that homeowners in Woods Cross can follow to try to get their heaters working again. If the problem goes beyond these basics, it’s best to let our professionals handle the heating repair.
1. Check Your Thermostat First
One of the most common reasons a heater stops producing heat or blows cold air is the thermostat. It seems simple, but many homeowners overlook it.
Here’s what you should do:
– Make sure the thermostat is set to “heat” mode, not “cool” or “fan only”
– Raise the temperature setting a few degrees above your room temperature
– Wait about a minute to see if the heating system activates
– If your thermostat has a blank screen, try replacing the batteries
Battery-powered thermostats can lose power without warning, and even if the screen isn’t blank, weak batteries might prevent signals from reaching the HVAC unit. Swapping in fresh batteries is an easy first step to rule out the issue.
Sometimes, settings can change by accident. This may happen during cleaning or while adjusting other controls. Double-check that it’s set to “heat” and not in “fan only” mode. Getting the thermostat back to the right settings is often the fastest way to restore heat during a Woods Cross cold front.
2. Make Sure There’s Power
If everything looks right on the thermostat and your heater still isn’t working, check the power. Even gas furnaces rely on power for components like the ignition system and blower motor.
Steps to follow:
– Ensure the heating unit is plugged in tightly
– Look for lights or displays on the unit that show it’s receiving power
– Open your home’s electrical panel and see if a circuit breaker has tripped
If you find a tripped breaker, reset it once and test your heater. If it trips again, don’t keep resetting it. That could point to deeper problems like damaged wiring, system overload, or faulty internal parts. At that stage, it’s best to contact our technicians.
In some older Woods Cross homes, a fuse may have blown instead of a breaker tripping. Replacing a blown fuse can be tricky and should be done carefully. If you’re unfamiliar with how to do this or unsure what to look for, bring in our professionals.
Lastly, inspect the space around the heater. If you see frayed wires, scorch marks, or smell anything burnt or unusual, do not try to fix it yourself. Shut off power and schedule a service call right away.
3. Check the Furnace Air Filter
A common but overlooked heating issue is a dirty air filter. A clogged filter blocks airflow and may cause your unit to overheat and shut down to protect itself.
Here’s how to check and replace it:
– Locate the filter, often found inside the furnace or behind a panel near the return air duct
– Slide out the filter and inspect it for dust and debris
– If it’s visibly dirty or clogged, replace it with one that matches in size and type
Filters should typically be changed every one to three months. In Woods Cross, dry air and construction dust can make filters clog faster. Homes with pets or allergy sensitivity also benefit from more frequent changes.
Mark the date on your calendar or directly on the filter frame after installation. Timely replacement helps your system work efficiently and prevents a potential shutdown. If a new filter doesn’t solve the problem and your furnace keeps cycling off, the issue could be more complex, requiring professional diagnosis.
4. Look at the Pilot Light or Ignition System
If there’s still no heat after checking the basics, your unit’s pilot light or ignition system could be the cause. Older gas furnaces use a standing pilot light, while newer models rely on electronic ignition.
Here’s how to check:
– Locate the pilot assembly near the base of the furnace
– Look through the small opening to see if a flame is present
– If there’s no flame, the pilot may be out
To relight it, follow your heater’s manual. Usually, this involves turning the gas valve off, waiting a few minutes, then switching to “pilot” mode. Hold a lighter near the opening and press the reset button. If the flame won’t stay lit, the thermocouple or gas valve might need repair.
For electronic ignition systems, listen for a clicking sound when the system tries to start. If you hear nothing or if the unit keeps failing to ignite, the ignitor could be faulty or dirty. These parts are sensitive and best handled by our professionals.
There was a Woods Cross home where the pilot wouldn’t stay on and the owner also smelled gas. Our technician found a faulty valve, replaced it, and restored safe function. If you suspect an ignition issue or notice a gas smell, shut down the heater and contact us right away.
5. Make Sure Gas Supply Is On and Safe
Gas supply is critical for systems that operate on natural gas or propane. Sometimes, a valve turns off during maintenance or servicing and is never switched back on.
To confirm the gas supply:
– Find the shutoff valve near your furnace and make sure it’s open
– The valve handle should be parallel with the gas pipe when on
– If uncertain or if there are multiple valves, do not adjust them yourself
If you’re sure the gas valve is on and you still have no heat, check whether other gas appliances like your stove or water heater are working. A total loss of gas pressure calls for immediate professional evaluation.
A smell of gas is cause for concern. Leave the area, avoid switching anything on or off, and call a licensed service provider. Never try to handle a suspected gas leak alone. Prioritizing safety is essential, especially in colder months when systems run more frequently.
6. Know When It’s Time to Call Our Professionals
If you’ve covered the steps above and your heater still doesn’t blow warm air, the problem might require advanced tools or a trained eye. Many heating system failures involve internal parts that most homeowners can’t safely inspect or replace.
Call our technicians if you notice these issues:
– A burning smell or unusual sounds coming from your system
– Your unit turns on and off repeatedly without heating the home
– The heater powers on but distributes no heat
– Your furnace displays error codes or blinking indicator lights
These symptoms can mean something deeper, like a damaged control board, motor failure, or a cracked heat exchanger. Trying to diagnose or fix these parts yourself can create hazards or lead to more damage.
Woods Cross homes, whether older or newer, depend on reliable heating through colder seasons. Regular support and inspections by our technicians can extend the life of your system and protect its performance.
Staying Warm and Safe in Your Woods Cross Home
No heat on a cold night in September can throw off your entire day or week. A non-working heater can feel overwhelming, especially when you have a busy schedule or family relying on warmth and comfort. By checking basic areas like the thermostat, power supply, air filter, pilot light, and gas supply, you can often narrow down what’s wrong.
When those steps don’t solve the problem, it’s time to stop guesswork and bring in help. Our professionals offer precise diagnostics and safe solutions. Keeping your Woods Cross home warm and stable depends on timely troubleshooting and knowing when to rely on expert service. Regular maintenance and early attention to performance issues will go a long way in keeping your heater running through the season.
If unexpected issues have left your Woods Cross home without adequate warmth, timely action is key to preventing further discomfort and damage. B.L.R. Heating & Air understands the challenges that come when your heating system fails to perform, and our professionals are ready to help diagnose and resolve problems safely. Whether you have already checked the basics or encountered more persistent issues, consider expert support for heating repair in Woods Cross to restore your comfort quickly. For a quick estimate or to book a service visit, please contact us today.
