Although winters in Florida are short-lived and don’t reach drastically cold temperatures like some of the northern states do, it can get rather chilly here at times. The drop in temperatures means that homeowners in Fort Pierce, Florida, must turn on their heating systems to warm up their residences. Make sure you pay attention to some of these common heating issues you might encounter.
Carbon Monoxide Leaks
One of the most dangerous heating problems that can occur with your heating system is a carbon monoxide leak. This deadly gas is odorless, tasteless, and colorless so it’s almost impossible to know that a leak exists unless you have a carbon monoxide detector. Your unit might have leaks or cracks near the heat exchange, causing the gas to escape. Leaks tend to occur in units that are more than 10 years old due to rust and cracking problems.
Clogged Filter
When you don’t turn on your heat for months, you might forget that you need to change out the air filter. A dirty or clogged filter can restrict airflow and prevent the system from maintaining an ideal indoor temperature. If you have pets, smokers, or use aerosol products excessively, you might notice the filters get dirty quickly. Replace the filters monthly.
Lack of Heat
You might experience cold air coming out of your vents when you turn on the heat for the first time. If you have a central furnace, this might mean the unit ran out of gas or the gas valve wasn’t turned on properly. With an electric heating system, this might signal that the heating element is broken. You should also check to make sure the thermostat setting is correct and that the pilot light is still lit.
When the temperatures begin to get cooler, it’s time to turn on your heat for the first time in months. Before you do so, make sure you have your heating system serviced. Contact Grimes Heating & Air Conditioning at (772) 800-6416 to schedule an appointment to make sure it’s not experiencing any common problems.
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