Electric vs. Gas Furnaces: Which One is Right for Your Home?
May 7, 2025
What to Do If Your Furnace Won’t Turn On
May 7, 2025
When temperatures drop, your heating system becomes a much-appreciated luxury. A properly functioning heater keeps you comfortable, ensures energy efficiency, and even impacts indoor air quality. However, like any piece of equipment, heaters can develop issues over time. While some minor concerns can be resolved with basic maintenance, others require the expertise of an HVAC professional. Ignoring warning signs can lead to bigger problems, higher repair costs, or even complete system failure.
At Southwest HVAC, we believe in keeping our customers informed about the health of their heating systems. If you’re experiencing any of the following signs, it’s time to call in the experts before the issue worsens.
Insufficient or Uneven Heating
Have you noticed that some rooms in your home feel colder than others? Does your heater seem to run longer than usual without fully warming your space? These are clear indicators that something isn’t working correctly. Uneven heating can be caused by ductwork issues, thermostat malfunctions, or a failing blower motor. If your heater is struggling to maintain a consistent temperature, it’s best to have a professional diagnose the problem before your system overworks itself and leads to expensive repairs. Over time, if the issue is left unresolved, it can even shorten the lifespan of your heater, resulting in a costly replacement.
Strange Noises Coming from the Heater
Your heater should operate with a relatively low noise level. If you start hearing banging, rattling, squealing, or grinding sounds, there could be a serious issue. Different noises can indicate different problems:
- Banging or booming: This could be due to delayed ignition or gas buildup in the furnace, which can be dangerous.
- Rattling: Loose components or ductwork vibrations may be to blame.
- Squealing: A worn-out belt or motor bearing might be causing the issue.
- Grinding: This often signals a problem with the blower motor and should be addressed immediately.
Don’t ignore these sounds – call Southwest HVAC to prevent a minor issue from turning into a major breakdown. These unusual sounds often get worse over time, putting more stress on your system and requiring more extensive repairs down the line.
Unusual or Burning Odors
A strange smell coming from your heating system should never be ignored. Musty odors could indicate mold growth in your ducts or unit, while a strong burning smell might mean overheating components, electrical issues, or dust accumulation inside the furnace. If you notice an odd scent that doesn’t go away quickly, it’s time to bring in a professional to inspect the system before it becomes a fire hazard. Some odors, such as burning plastic or rubber, could indicate melting wires or failing components that need immediate attention.
Increased Energy Bills
Have you noticed a sudden spike in your heating costs? If your energy bill is higher than usual and you haven’t changed your heating habits, your system may be running inefficiently. Several issues could be to blame, such as a clogged filter, thermostat problems, or a failing component forcing your heater to work harder than necessary. A professional HVAC technician can pinpoint the issue and restore your system’s efficiency, saving you money in the long run. Addressing inefficiency early can prevent further escalation, which would only increase your costs.
Frequent Cycling On and Off
Your heating system should run in steady cycles to maintain the desired temperature. If you notice your heater turning on and off frequently (short cycling), it could be due to an oversized unit, a malfunctioning thermostat, or overheating. Short cycling can put unnecessary strain on your system, leading to premature wear and tear. An HVAC technician from Southwest HVAC can diagnose the issue and recommend a solution to prevent further damage. The longer the issue persists, the more strain is put on your system’s components, which may eventually cause them to break down.
Weak or No Airflow
Weak airflow from your vents is a sign that something is obstructing your heating system’s performance. This could be caused by a dirty air filter, a malfunctioning blower motor, or clogged ductwork. Without proper airflow, your home won’t heat evenly, and your system will have to work harder to keep up. Regular maintenance can prevent these issues, but if you’re already experiencing reduced airflow, a professional repair is the best course of action. Low airflow doesn’t just affect comfort, but also reduces efficiency, which could lead to higher energy bills.
Pilot Light or Ignition Issues
For older gas furnaces, a pilot light that won’t stay lit can be a sign of a faulty thermocouple or a problem with the gas supply. In newer systems, ignition issues may be related to an electronic control failure. If your heater is struggling to ignite, it’s best to have an expert take a look – especially if you notice yellow or flickering flames, which can indicate a carbon monoxide issue. Ignition problems often worsen over time and can be a safety hazard if not addressed.
Excessive Dust or Poor Indoor Air Quality
Your heating system plays a big role in circulating air throughout your home. If you’ve noticed an increase in dust, allergy symptoms, or musty smells, your heater could be contributing to poor indoor air quality. Dirty filters, clogged ductwork, or mold growth inside your system can all reduce the air quality in your home. Professional HVAC maintenance can help keep your air clean and your heater running efficiently. Poor air quality can also have a direct impact on your family’s health, so it’s best to address these issues sooner rather than later.
Heater Failing to Turn On
If your heater refuses to turn on at all, check your thermostat settings and make sure the power source is intact. If everything appears normal and your system still won’t start, there could be an electrical issue, a tripped safety switch, or a mechanical failure. A professional HVAC technician can quickly diagnose and resolve the problem so you’re not left in the cold. A heater that won’t turn on could also indicate a deeper problem, so it’s best to call for service right away to avoid further damage.
Old Heater
If your heater is over 15 years old and frequently requires repairs, it may be nearing the end of its lifespan. Older systems lose efficiency and can become costly to maintain. Instead of continuously paying for repairs, it may be more cost-effective to invest in a newer, more energy-efficient model. Southwest HVAC can help you determine whether repair or replacement is the best option for your home. A new system can reduce energy costs, improve comfort, and save you money in the long run by minimizing repair needs.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late – Call Southwest HVAC Today!
At Southwest HVAC, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing heating systems of all makes and models. Our team of experienced technicians is ready to provide prompt, professional service to get your heater back in top shape. Whether you need a minor repair, a system tune-up, or advice on upgrading your heating system, we’re here to help.
Don’t wait until you’re left out in the cold – contact us today to schedule an inspection! Let Southwest HVAC keep your home warm and comfortable all season long. Call us now or book an appointment online for fast and reliable service!
