Aug 20, 2025 | Michael Jestadt
Most Common Heating System Issues in Concord, CA
When winter arrives, the heating system in your home comes to play to maintain a cozy and comfortable environment. However, the heating system can sometimes stop working without giving you any warning signs. However, apart from the hassle it creates, it can also lead to expensive repairs. Therefore, addressing the problems at the beginning can save you from unexpected cold nights and improve the system’s efficiency, thereby extending its lifespan. In this article, we will discuss the most common heating system issues, enabling you to identify them early and prevent unexpected repairs and replacements.
Common Heating System Problems
Thermostat Isn’t Working
If you are facing issues while setting up the thermostat, the thermostat might be the problem. Try to identify the problem. If you are using a digital thermostat, try changing the batteries. If none of the methods work, try resetting the thermostat’s settings. Check the circuit to see whether it is tripped or not. Check the wiring for any visible cuts.
If you don’t find any of the issues mentioned, it’s better to call your HVAC expert for an in-depth analysis.
Little to No Airflow from the Vents
The warm air produced by your heating system should pass freely through the ducts. However, sometimes you may notice little to no airflow in the vents, which can be irritating. This happens due to clogged air filters caused by the presence of dust or debris, or worn-out fan blades. These factors can all affect the efficiency, making the device struggle to provide enough heat for your home. You can call an HVAC expert to thoroughly inspect the air filters, ductwork, air vents, and fan blades and rectify any issues.
High Heating Bills
There will be a drastic increase in heating bills during the winter season. The reasons can be simple, such as heat escaping through doors and windows, while others can be more complicated, like internal heating system issues. Some of them can be dirty air filters, which can block airflow, forcing your system to work harder to provide enough heat for your home. An old and inefficient furnace system, leaky and uninsulated ductwork, and a faulty thermostat can pose significant problems. Any of these reasons, or all of them, can contribute to high heating bills.
Dirty or Clogged Filters
Air filters play a crucial role in regulating airflow in any HVAC system. It protects the system from dust and debris from entering the system. If the air filters are clogged, overheating, reduced efficiency, and system breakdown may occur. Clogged air filters not only affect your system but also impact the indoor air quality of your home. Due to clogged air filters, dust and allergens become trapped and spread throughout the home, potentially causing breathing problems.
By regularly changing the air filters, you can ensure that your heating system operates at peak efficiency and provides cleaner air.
Ignition Issues
Upgraded heating systems come with ignition to start the combustion process. So, when the ignition stops, the heat also stops, and the most common causes can be dirty burners, broken sensors, or a problem with the gas supply. Detecting these issues can save you from potential safety risks. Generally, these issues cannot be tackled on your own. Instead, it’s best to consult an HVAC expert for a thorough inspection of the system to ensure everything is safe and functioning properly.
Heat Pump Not Working
There are various types of heat pumps available to maintain your home in a cozy and comfortable environment. Most of the time, they work well, but you can still face issues after some time. If the heat pumps aren’t running well, it could be due to broken parts, such as a bad capacitor. If the heat pumps work but don’t provide you with heat, it can be due to dirty filters. Sometimes, your heat pump produces cool air from the vents even when it is set to heating mode.
Other common issues can be a dirty outdoor unit, refrigerant leaks, and outdoor temperature fluctuations.
Noisy Furnace
Similar to any other type of equipment, furnaces also produce sound during their usage. So, if you hear any sounds that are louder than normal, it’s time to contact your HVAC expert. The noise can be due to various reasons, such as rattling sounds from loose panels or clicking sounds from the ignition. A slipped fan belt also causes a squealing sound while the furnace is running. In severe cases, loud banging noises may occur due to unburned fuel in the system, which requires immediate attention.
Burning Smell From the System
You may notice a burning smell after turning on the heating device after a long period in the winter season. It is due to the accumulated dust and dirt in the system, which will be burned when you start the system. If the same burning smell persists for an extended period, it can lead to a serious issue. So, it is better to shut down the system, clean the air filter, and restart the system. If the burning smell persists, contact your HVAC expert to inspect the system.
Stay Warm This Winter With Smart Heating and Air Conditioning
Sometimes problems arise in your heating system without giving you any warning signs. However, most problems do not appear suddenly; instead, they develop slowly over time. Therefore, the best way to prevent such issues is by scheduling a yearly professional furnace tune-up. At Smart Heating and Air Conditioning, we not only solve your problems, but we also focus on prevention. We keep your heating system in optimal condition by saving you time, money, and stress. Do not wait until your heating system stops working; take action now. Contact us today to schedule your maintenance. We look forward to providing you with a warm and stress-free winter.
