When something goes wrong with your heater, it’s important to get it checked out right away. Thermostat and air filter issues are frequent problems; checking them will tell you whether you need to call in a professional.
Anytime the malfunction stems from an electrical issue or pilot light failure, you should stop and call an expert. The damage might be the result of moisture buildup that leads to corrosion or ignition problems. Keep reading to learn all about common heater problems in Pensacola and how to troubleshoot them.
Common Reasons a Heater Stops Working
Understanding why heaters sometimes fail or blow cold air will help you know how to respond. Some problems are easily fixable with a quick DIY repair, while many others require professional assistance.
1. Thermostat Problems
The majority of thermostat problems occur because of incompatibility issues or dead batteries. Incorrect settings can also cause the heater to cycle improperly by sending the wrong signals; this often happens when someone accidentally adjusts the mode or schedule and then forgets to switch it back.
Here’s why your thermostat might be creating heating problems:
- Dead or weak batteries
- Wrong mode (set to COOL instead of HEAT)
- Miscalibration or wiring issues
- Smart thermostat schedule errors
2. Tripped Circuit Breaker or Electrical Issue
All electrical problems can lead to fire and shock hazards if you don’t respond properly. And, unfortunately for Florida, the frequent hurricanes and storms sometimes increase electrical issues.
Your heater might be experiencing malfunctions because of:
- Breaker tripped after a power surge
- Blown fuse in furnace or air handler
- Faulty circuit board from Florida’s frequent lightning storms
3. Dirty or Clogged Air Filter
Dirty filters restrict airflow, causing the heater to work harder and run inefficiently. Clogged filters are a leading cause of overheating and safety shutdowns. During Florida’s high-dust, high-pollen seasons, it’s best to change the filter monthly.
4. Lack of Regular Maintenance
Heaters that don’t receive professional tune-ups use much more energy. Their parts wear out faster, and they tend to experience more problems.
Here’s how a lack of maintenance affects your heater:
- Dust accumulation after the system sits unused for a while
- Moisture in Florida’s humid climate leads to rust and corrosion
- Air leaks in ducts or clogged coils reduce efficiency
5. Blower Fan or Motor Failure
When the blower fan or motor goes out, you’ll likely notice no warm air circulation. These problems can come from multiple culprits, like worn bearings, electrical faults, or debris blockage.
Florida’s high moisture levels further contribute to premature wear by causing rust and corrosion on the moving parts.
6. Pilot Light or Ignition System Malfunction
If you have a gas heater, it must have a working pilot light to ignite the burners and produce heat. But over time, dust and soot can build up and block the flame, and moisture may cause the ignition system to corrode.
If your gas heater won’t ignite, check for these frequent pilot light or ignition problems:
- Pilot light extinguished due to airflow or buildup
- Malfunctioning thermocouple preventing ignition
- Electronic ignitor clogged with debris, cracked, or corroded
7. Safety Switch or Loose Furnace Door
The access panel on the furnace must have a tight, secure closure for the heater to turn on and produce heat. This is a safety feature that prevents the system from operating when the door is loose or removed.
You might be able to press the panel firmly back into place to restore normal function.
Florida-Specific Causes of Heater Problems
Because of the state’s climate and weather patterns, heater problems in Florida often come from:
- Excess moisture leading to corrosion, mold growth, and blocked parts
- Extended periods of inactivity allowing dust buildup and pests inside the system
- Severe storms and power interruptions causing electrical damage
Troubleshooting Steps Before Calling a Professional
Here’s what you can do to try and fix the heater before calling in the pros:
- Verify thermostat settings and install fresh batteries if needed
- Restore power by resetting a breaker or swapping out a blown fuse
- Examine the air filter and change it if it’s clogged with dust
- Make sure the furnace access panel is properly latched
- Pay attention to any odd odors, leaks, or strange sounds coming from the system
When to Call an HVAC Professional
Let us know immediately if you detect any of the following:
- Noticeable gas odor or suspicion of a leak
- Electrical breaker shutting off repeatedly
- Blower motor fails to start or produces harsh noises
- Pilot light won’t remain lit or ignition system keeps misfiring
- Heater remains nonfunctional even after simple troubleshooting steps
Preventive Tips to Avoid Heater Breakdowns
A few simple habits can go a long way in keeping your heater running smoothly:
- Change air filters often to keep airflow clear and efficient
- Book a yearly professional maintenance visit
- Turn on the heater every so often during the off-season
- Add surge protectors to shield equipment from storm-related power spikes
- Use a dehumidifier to minimize moisture damage
FAQs
Why won’t my heater turn on after sitting unused?
A heater will sometimes struggle to turn on after sitting unused because of dust buildup, stiff components, or moisture affecting the electrical parts. The best way to fix this is to clean or replace filters, check connections, and schedule a professional inspection if problems persist.
Can Florida humidity affect my heater?
Yes, the high humidity increases the risk of corrosion, which can lead to damaged components. Excess moisture in the air also encourages mold growth, which may turn into airflow blockages if you don’t keep the system clean.
How often should I replace my filter in Florida?
How often you should change your air filter depends on the type of filter being used. Most standard fiberglass and pleated filters need filter changes every 30 to 60 days. Thicker, high-efficiency style filters usually require replacement every 6 to 12 months.
What if my thermostat works but the heater doesn’t?
If the thermostat works fine but the heater won’t turn on, you might have a wiring or mechanical problem. We can perform an inspection to pinpoint the exact cause and determine what type of repair you need.
Is it safe to relight the pilot light myself?
Relighting the pilot light is safe as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. If you smell gas or feel unsure, call a professional right away.
Got Heater Problems in Pensacola, FL?
Heater problems come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from minor thermostat issues to serious ignition failures. You should always start with the basics when troubleshooting by checking the air filter and testing the thermostat’s batteries. If these simple fixes don’t work, call a licensed HVAC technician.
Here at Pensacola One Hour, we offer heater repairs and tune-ups. We’ll make sure your whole HVAC system is ready to keep you comfortable year-round. We serve all of Pensacola and the nearby areas. We’re always on time, or you don’t pay a dime.