Heating is essential for any home to be able to endure the near-freezing temperatures we often experience throughout the cold Victorian winters, but how can you tell if your heating system is working as it should?
If you’ve noticed any of the following things happening when you use your heating system, it’s time to get it checked by a professional.
1. Heater frequently turning on and off
A heater which frequently turns on and off over a short period of time (known as short cycling) is a sign that something isn’t functioning properly.
When operating normally, your heater should conduct a full heating cycle to warm your home to the desired temperature before switching itself off. If your system is shutting itself off prematurely, it will place additional pressure on the system and shorten the lifespan of the heater.
Whether short cycling is occurring because the system is too large for the space, because of an issue with your thermostat or due to poor insulation which allows warm air to escape quickly, a heating technician should be able to diagnose the problem and recommend a solution.
2. Strange noises or odours
While all heaters make some noise when in use, any odd or unusual noises you hear when you turn your heater on could be a sign of a mechanical issue which needs to be addressed.
When working properly, there should be no smell from your heater. Any strange smells or odours could also be a sign of a more serious problem, such as a gas leak. If you regularly notice an unusual odour when you use your heater, you should stop using it until you have it checked by a licensed heating technician.
3. Not heating your home effectively
It’s important to do some investigation if your heater is not heating your home effectively or if you’ve received some unusually high energy bills.
Issues like a damaged blower motor or relay, a malfunctioning burner, or a pilot light or ignition problem could be responsible. Any of these issues can affect the performance of your heater and parts will require either repair or replacement for your system to be able to operate properly.
4. Family members regularly feel unwell
If you’ve noticed family members experiencing any ongoing health issues such as headaches, cold or flu-like symptoms, breathing difficulties, bronchitis, asthma or impaired judgement, your heater could be to blame.
Whether caused by dirty filters or fans which allow toxins and impurities to circulate in the air in your home, or something more serious like a potentially deadly Carbon Monoxide leak, the risks of ignoring these symptoms can be devastating.
5. Hasn’t been serviced in a couple of years
Heating systems need to be serviced at least every 18-24 months. If you haven’t had your heater serviced in the last couple of years, it’s time to get it done.
Regular servicing will ensure your heater is operating safely and efficiently to minimise energy consumption, keep operating costs down and extend the lifespan of your heating system.
If you’re in Victoria and think your heating system needs to be checked or serviced, contact the team at HeatCool to arrange a visit from one of our experienced professional licenced heating technicians.
