Most furnaces are designed to automatically shut down when the air in your home is comfortable. In most cases, you won’t even realize when this process takes place. However, if your system keeps turning on and off constantly, it could mean that something is wrong. Before you get all worried, you can try some of these troubleshooting tips before calling a professional. Here are some frequently asked questions about heating systems.
Why does my heater keep shutting off?
Your furnace will usually turn on and off as a result of something called “short cycling”. This basically refers to problems within your system. When short cycling is left unattended for an extended period of time, it usually leads to break down or higher energy bills. When troubleshooting your furnace for short cycling, the first thing you should do is check the air filters. Air filters wear off after a while, and will require cleaning or replacing if your system is to resume normal function,
The next step will be to check your thermostat. A faulty thermostat can cause short cycling. Make sure your thermostat has the right settings and that it is switched on. In some cases, placement of the thermostat can affect normal operations. For instance, if the thermostat is comes in direct contact with another source of heat, such as sunlight, it might assume your home is too warm and shut down.
Other causes of short cycling may include; presence of debris in air vents or chimney, improper sizing of heating system or corrosion on flame sensors.
How are Heaters Rated?
AFUE or Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency is the measurement used to rate how efficient heaters are. The higher the AFUE rating, the more efficient the heater is. A higher rating means that your heater will not only serve you better for an extended period of time, but will also save you money on utility bills.
Why is it that My Heat Pump Never Shuts Off?
If your heat pump remains on even in the hottest of seasons, then you should probably consult a professional. But before you do that, you can try troubleshooting it yourself. Make sure the thermostat is placed correctly and the outdoor unit is operating normally. You should also check whether the air filter is clean and that all doors and windows are closed when this problem arises.
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