HEATING
Services

1. How to find a local heating specialist

2. 1-800-Plumber +Air

3. House heating not working

4. Furnace turns on but no heat

5. Central heat not working but AC is

6. How to spot a scam company

7. Common furnace problems

8. Need more help with your central heat

Did you know that in some US states, the average winter temperature goes as low as 2.6 Fahrenheit and 12.4 Fahrenheit? Even if you don't live in one of these states (Alaska or Minnesota), it can still get very cold in many regions in the US.

That's why it's so important for your central heat to work. So if you have the problem of central heat not working in the middle of the winter, then you're probably reading this article while shivering, trying to stay warm in layers, and impatiently trying to find a solution to your problem.

In addition to suffering from the cold, you're frustrated and worried. You might be wondering to yourself: "How can I fix this problem? Do I have to call an expert? Is a repair needed, and, if so, how much will it cost?"

That's why we've put together this guide. To answer these questions, so that you can get your central heat fixed at a price that's affordable. Before you know it, you'll be back to being warm at home, snuggling under a blanket with a cup of tea because it's something you enjoy—not because you need to.

Read on to learn more.

Central Heat Not Working but AC Is

It can also be worrisome if your central heat isn't working, but your AC is. It can't possibly be a power issue, and the units are turning on...but you're still cold. Here are some of the possible reasons why this is happening.

A Wonky Thermostat

If your AC turns on, but your central heat doesn't, then it might be an issue with your thermostat. Thermostats, depending on where they are, might actually not be reflecting the temperature of your home.

If a thermostat is in a warm or cold area of your house, or hit too often by sunlight, then it won't adjust correctly to heat your home. Check that this isn't what's happening. If your thermostat still has issues even after you've solved these issues, it's worth paying for a repair.

The Blower Motor Isn't Working

When your furnace is working properly, the blower motor moves the heat around so that it reaches every part of your home. However, this high-tech machinery can stop working after having been used a while, which means that the heat is being generated but not going anywhere.

There should be a light that's on when the blower motor is working. If it's not on, then you'll have to have it replaced by a professional.

Unwanted Condensation

Unwanted condensation can cause heat to get stuck instead of going into your house. When this happens, your furnace collects condensation that has somehow gotten in, which makes the furnace unable to work if there's too much of it inside.

How to Spot a Scam Company

If you have to get your furnace replaced, then you need to watch out for scam companies. Especially during the winter months, when many people are desperate to fix heating issues for a low price, scammers are waiting for someone in your position to get their help.

To avoid this happening, you need to look out for several red flags. These include:

• Unrealistically low prices

• There isn't an actual office they work from

• Their materials are low quality, or their tools are

• They offer to do the job cheaper if you pay in cash

Additionally, there are some red flags to watch out for once you've already started getting these fixes done. These include sudden hikes in the price you've been quoted, a change in the contract, or stopping work, threatening to continue only if you pay them additional money.

If you stick to reputable businesses, or ones that have good reviews from customers, you're less likely to end up being scammed.

Common Furnace Problems

Even if you aren't dealing with your heater not working, it's good to be aware of common furnace problems. This way, you can avoid them this season. They include:

• The furnace making a squealing noise when it's on

• Ignition issues that make it difficult to turn on

• A cracked heat exchanger

This last problem—a cracked heat exchanger—can be deadly, because when this happens, carbon monoxide slowly enters your home. Be on the lookout all winter for signs, which include an unpleasant odor in the home, soot or ash inside the furnace, water that's leaked out onto the floor around the furnace, and physical symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning, such as a headache or nausea.

Need More Help With Your Central Heat Not Working?

If you're still stumped about why your central heat isn't working, we can help you. At 1-800-Plumber +Air, we offer many repairs and solutions—and we're always happy to answer any questions you might have.