On a frigid night, nothing is more soothing than to relax on the couch with a cup of tea and a house full of quiet. Except tonight is too quiet.
The gentle hum of your heater has gone silent and a chill fills the air.
At Eyman, we’re familiar with the fact that nothing seems to break down when it’s convenient. And we’re always ready to answer your call. But let’s troubleshoot some common furnace issues first.
Troubleshoot Common Furnace Problems
Accidentally Unplugged
As simple as it sounds, a common problem we encounter is AUS – Accidentally Unplugged Syndrome. A stumble, curious toddler or wayward pet can cause this problem. An easy fix, but one you may not have noticed until the frost formed under your nose.
It’s Electric – Check the Circuit Box
Check your circuit box. Even if most of your appliances function properly, you may still encounter electrical failures. A blown fuse can easily go undetected and is fairly common, especially in older houses or if you have more than one major appliance on the circuit.
Turn the Heat Around – Test Your Thermostat
If this is the first time you’ve kicked your heater on this season or if you return from a long absence, it’s possible your thermostat settings simply need to be changed. Check that you have the unit set to “Heat” instead of “Cool” or “Fan,” and set it to a warmer temperature to see if it activates.
Free Flow – Check Your Filter
A dirty filter can put an otherwise excellent system on the fritz. Make changing your filter part of your change-of-season ritual to avoid a last minute melt down or sign up for Eyman’s maintenance program (filter included). Celebrate seasonally by having your first pumpkin spice after your filter has been changed in the fall and your first iced lemonade when it’s changed in the spring.
Applause – Clean Your Fan and Check Your Blower Belt
Before it gets too cold, check the fan for debris and ice. With the unit turned off, hose down the coils and make sure your blower belt is intact. A loose or damaged belt is easily replaced. Once these repairs are made, be sure to turn the unit back on.
If you still feel the chill, it’s time for a service call. We will be there in a breeze to end the freeze – but in the meantime, let us give you some heat saving tips.
Lay it on a Little Thick – Layered Clothing and Covered Windows
In the summer, there are only so many layers you can remove before you aren’t allowed on the couch. In the winter, however, there is no limit to the layers you can add to cut heating costs. Your windows are very into the layered look, too.
Pull drapes closed at night to block the breeze. Weather stripping and tightly sealed windows and doors will keep the heat inside where it belongs. Snuggle under a blanket with your cocoa and someone with a nice warm heart and enjoy the sounds of the season.