A malfunctioning heater can significantly impair your home’s comfort. Worse yet, if your furnace is leaking gas, it can lead to serious health consequences. While most heating issues require professional intervention, understanding their warning signs early on can help you minimize problems before they become irreparable. 

Avoid repeated HVAC service appointments and costly furnace replacements with these helpful furnace troubleshooting tips and solutions. If your heater is acting funny or your furnace is not turning on altogether, we will explain why. We will also provide actionable insights you can use to remedy the issue, distinguishing between scenarios that can safely be resolved on your own and those that require professional assistance. 

Common Signs Your Heater Isn’t Working Properly

• Your heater is running yet your home remains persistently cold: In this scenario, the culprit could be damaged ductwork or an aging furnace. Schedule a professional inspection to pinpoint the exact cause.

• Unusual sounds : Unexplainable noises like scraping, screeching, or rattling indicate mechanical issues that could lead to system failure if left unaddressed.

• Strange smells: Gaseous odors require immediate evacuation and professional assistance. Burning smells, musty odors, or the smell of rotten eggs may signal dangerous leaks or cracked components within your heating system.

• Frequent cycling or a failure to start: A furnace that won’t start or frequently cycles on and off points to efficiency problems. These issues place unnecessary strain on components and can potentially lead to premature system failure.

• Rising energy bills despite poor heating performance: Unexplained spikes in your energy bills often indicate your heating system is working harder than necessary, suggesting it's time for maintenance or replacement.

Common Causes of Heater Malfunctions

Below are some of the most common reasons why your heater is not working properly:

Power or Fuel Supply Issues

• Tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses
• Gas supply interruptions or pilot light issues
• Thermostat power problems (e.g., dead batteries or faulty wiring)

Thermostat Problems

• Incorrect settings or faulty calibration
• Old or malfunctioning thermostat units

Dirty or Clogged Components

• Clogged air filters restrict airflow
• Dirty burners in gas furnaces

Mechanical Failures

• Broken belts, fans, or motors
• Worn-out components in older units

External Factors

• Blocked vents or registers
• External HVAC damage due to extreme weather conditions

Troubleshooting Steps for a Heater That’s Not Working

Step 1: Check the Thermostat Settings and Batteries

Verify the thermostat is set to "heat" mode and that its batteries are fresh. Check for loose or damaged wiring connections that could be responsible for interrupted operation.

Step 2: Inspect the Power Supply and Reset Circuit Breakers

Ensure your unit's power switch is "on" and verify proper power delivery. For electric units, check circuit breakers. For gas units, confirm the pilot light is lit and the gas valve is open.

Step 3: Replace or Clean the Air Filters

Replace dirty filters. Clogged air filters restrict airflow and force your system to work harder, leading to poor performance and higher energy costs.

Step 4: Look for Visible Signs of Damage or Obstruction

Especially after a particularly bad storm, examine external components for weather-related damage and ensure vents aren't blocked by furniture or debris.

Step 5: Restart the System or Relight the Pilot Light (For Gas Furnaces)

For gas furnaces, check that the gas valve lever runs parallel to the pipe. If needed, restart your system following manufacturer guidelines.

Step 6: Call for Professional Help if DIY Steps Don’t Work

If you don’t feel comfortable performing any of these troubleshooting steps or they didn’t resolve the issue, call an HVAC professional right away. Especially in situations where you risk fire, electric shock, or exposure to gas, it’s important to rely on furnace repair experts who possess the right training and equipment for the job.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

• Schedule annual heating tune-ups
• Replace air filters every 1–3 months
• Keep vents and registers clear of obstructions
• Monitor energy bills for significant spikes, as they could be signs of inefficiency
• Upgrade to energy-efficient systems when needed

When to Seek Professional Assistance

Professional HVAC technicians are trained to diagnose and repair furnace issues quickly. If your furnace is not turning on or your heater is not working altogether, timely assistance from a trained furnace professional can help prevent costly heating emergencies.

Some of the scenarios that require professional heating assistance include:

• Persistent heating issues despite troubleshooting
• Your furnace is making loud or unusual noises
• Gas or burning odors
• Issues with the pilot light or ignition system
• High repair costs or frequent repair visits indicate it’s time for a furnace replacement

Conclusion

Now that we understand some of the common reasons why your heater is not working, it’s time to reinforce the importance of scheduling annual furnace maintenance and timely repairs to minimize the impact of these issues. At T.Webber, we specialize in dependable furnace maintenance and repair. We’ve been trained to quickly identify and resolve HVAC issues, saving you from the time, frustration, and risk associated with DIY repair.

If your heater is not working and the troubleshooting tips outlined in this guide don’t fix the problem, contact T.Webber today for professional diagnosis and repair.

Is your room temperature lower than the thermostat setting? If so, you may have a malfunctioning thermostat. 

This common HVAC issue can disrupt comfort and signal deeper problems within your heating and cooling system. Whether you're dealing with inconsistent temperatures or your system won't stop running, understanding the root cause is crucial for maintaining home comfort. 

Let’s look at some of the possible reasons why your thermostat won’t change temperature. We’ll provide troubleshooting tips you can try out to fix these problems as well as preventative measures you can use to avoid them altogether in the future.

Signs of a Malfunctioning Thermostat

When your thermostat malfunctions, several telltale signs can identify the underlying problem:

• Temperature Inconsistencies: If you notice your room temperature is lower than the thermostat setting, your system may be short-cycling. This issue particularly affects rooms farthest from your HVAC unit, creating noticeable comfort contrasts throughout your home.
• Non-Stop Operation: An AC or furnace that doesn't shut off upon reaching the desired temperature often indicates failed thermostat wiring or calibration problems. These issues can cause your thermostat to send incorrect signals to your HVAC system, resulting in inefficient operation and increased energy costs.
• Erratic System Behavior: Unusual sounds or irregular cycling patterns from your heating and cooling system may point to thermostat communication problems that require professional attention.

Possible Causes of a Thermostat That Won’t Change the Temperature

Below are some of the most common reasons for a malfunctioning thermostat:

1. Incorrect Thermostat Settings

• Thermostat Mode Mismatch: If the thermostat is set to the wrong mode — such as using the heating mode when cooling is desired — it can seriously impair home comfort. 
• Fan Settings Impacting Temperature Regulation: The fan settings on the thermostat can also affect the overall temperature regulation in your home. For example, if the fan is set to "on" instead of "auto," the fan will run continuously, which may lead to temperature inconsistencies throughout different areas of the house.
• Incorrect Scheduling or Programming: Many modern thermostats come with programmable features that allow homeowners to set specific temperature schedules. Incorrect scheduling or misconfiguration can lead to heating or cooling at inappropriate times, resulting in higher energy bills and discomfort.

2. Thermostat Placement Issues

• Impact of Poor Placement: Poorly positioned thermostats can cause cycles of overheating or overcooling, dramatically affecting comfort levels and causing the HVAC system to work harder than necessary. Over time, this leads to excessive wear and tear.

3. Dirty or Malfunctioning Components

• Dust and Debris: Accumulation of dust and debris can impede the function of the thermostat’s sensors, leading to incorrect temperature readings and inefficient system operation. Regular cleaning and professional HVAC maintenance are essential to prevent dust accumulation.

4. HVAC System Problems

• Insufficient Refrigerant: Cooling systems require a specific amount of refrigerant to function properly. A low refrigerant level can hinder the system's ability to cool effectively, leading to warmer indoor temperatures and potential system damage.
• Aging or Damaged Components: Over time, HVAC components can age and wear down, impacting their performance. Professional HVAC inspections and maintenance are important to identify and address any aging or damaged parts before they lead to significant issues.

5. External Factors

• Weather Damage: Extreme weather conditions, such as heavy storms or intense heatwaves, can damage HVAC systems externally. Make sure that outdoor units are regularly protected and checked for damage.
• Insulation Issues: Poor home insulation can greatly affect indoor temperature regulation. Drafty areas can allow heated or cooled air to escape, leading to discomfort and elevated energy expenses. Regular checks and improved insulation can promote better energy efficiency and comfort.

Troubleshooting Steps

Step 1: Check and adjust thermostat settings

Always ensure that the thermostat is configured to the appropriate setting for the season — “heat mode” vs “cool mode” and “auto” vs “on”.

Step 2: Inspect thermostat placement

The placement of a thermostat is crucial for accurate temperature readings. If the thermostat is located near drafts from windows or doors, in direct sunlight, or close to heat-producing appliances, it may not accurately sense the ambient temperature, leading to inefficient heating or cooling. Ensure the thermostat is placed in an area where it can accurately assess ambient temperatures.

Step 3: Replace or clean filters

Dirty air filters restrict airflow, causing the HVAC system to work harder and run less efficiently. This can lead to poor temperature control and increased energy usage. Replace and clean air filters regularly as recommended by the manufacturer.

Step 4: Test batteries and wiring connections

Low or dead batteries in a battery-operated thermostat can result in complete loss of functionality. It’s important to regularly check and replace batteries to ensure proper operation. Likewise, inspect the wiring for visible damage. Frayed or disconnected wires can lead to a loss of conductivity.

Step 5: Schedule professional HVAC maintenance if necessary

If you don’t know how to perform any of these troubleshooting steps or you don’t feel comfortable doing them yourself, call an HVAC professional. Especially in situations where you risk fire or electric shock, it’s important to rely on HVAC experts who possess the right training and equipment for the job.

Preventative Measures to Avoid Future Issues

• Regularly maintain your HVAC system
• Replace air filters as recommended
• Upgrade to a programmable smart thermostat for better temperature control
• Improve home insulation

When to Call a Professional

Professional HVAC technicians are trained to diagnose and repair thermostat issues quickly. If your thermostat is not reaching the set temperature, timely intervention can help prevent costly repairs down the road. That said, it’s important to know when to call on these professionals.

Some of the scenarios in which it’s time to call a professional include:

• Complete HVAC system failure
• Issues with electrical components
• Installing new batteries doesn’t help
• Cleaning and adjusting the placement of the thermostat doesn’t fix the problem

Conclusion

Now that we understand some of the common reasons why your thermostat won’t change temperature, it’s time to reinforce the importance of scheduling regular HVAC maintenance to prevent these issues from happening in the first place. If your thermostat won’t change temperature and the troubleshooting tips outlined in this guide don’t resolve the problem, contact T.Webber for knowledgeable thermostat solutions.

At T.Webber, we specialize in thermostat maintenance and repair. We know how to quickly identify and resolve issues, saving you from the time, frustration, and risk associated with DIY repair.

Modern furnaces operate quietly — but not noiselessly. When turned on, normal furnace noises include the humming of the blower motor as it pushes warm air into your ductwork, the soft whoosh of burners igniting on and off, and other subtle noises as various components work together to create heat. These things should sound familiar, comforting even. 

On the other hand, if those ordinary background noises transform into harsh roars or inexplicable pops and squeals, don’t ignore them; they could be a cry for help from your heating system. If left unaddressed, these warning signs can escalate into major issues requiring emergency furnace repair.

Let’s look closer at different furnace noises and what they mean so that you know exactly what to do if you hear them in your home. In the following guide, we’ll review characteristics of common furnace sounds and provide troubleshooting advice for each so that you can avoid being stranded in the cold the next time your furnace threatens to break down. 

Common Furnace Noises and Their Potential Causes

1. Banging or Popping

Description: Sudden, loud noises, similar to metal popping.

Potential Causes:

• Delayed ignition
• Expanding/contracting ductwork
• Igniting pockets of gas buildup
• Dirty furnace burners

Recommended Action: Call a furnace repair technician for inspection immediately, as this could lead to fires or explosions if not addressed.

2. Squealing or Screeching

Description: High-pitched, sharp sounds.

Potential Causes:

• Worn-out blower motor belts
• Faulty bearings

Recommended Action: If your furnace has a belt-drive blower motor, replace the belt and lubricate moving parts. If you don’t know how to do this (or don’t feel comfortable doing it yourself), call an HVAC repair technician for assistance.

3. Rattling

Description: Clanging sound of loose components.

Potential Causes:

• Loose panels or screws
• Frayed or cracked fan belt
• Cracked heat exchanger

Recommended Action: Tighten any unsecured parts, such as loose bolts, screws, or panels. Contact a furnace repair professional in cases of heat exchanger damage, as this can develop into a more serious issue.

4. Booming

Description: Loud crashing sound when the furnace starts up.

Potential Causes:

• Delayed ignition of gas
• Dirty burners, causing gas buildup

Recommended Action: Schedule a professional furnace inspection immediately, as the buildup of flammable gas can be dangerous.

5. Humming

Description: Low, constant whirring sound.

Potential Causes:

• Normal motor operation (if the humming is soft)
• Blower motor issues (if the humming is loud)

Recommended Action: If your furnace is making a humming noise that’s louder than usual, check the blower motor for issues. An unbalanced blower motor can vibrate, possibly explaining the unusually loud humming sound.

6. Chirping

Description: Sounds similar to birds chirping.

Potential Causes:

• Furnace parts warming up after long periods of inactivity
• Misaligned blower wheel
• Worn bearings

Recommended Action: If persistent, have a heating repair professional adjust or lubricate any worn or misaligned parts.

Why It's Important to Address Furnace Noises

Your furnace is a complex machine, meticulously designed to convert a fuel source into heat and disperse warmth throughout your indoor living spaces. Every sound it makes is purposeful, so when you hear inexplicable or loud noises coming from your heating system, it’s likely an indicator that something isn’t functioning right. 

For this reason, if you hear any of the bizarre warning signs outlined above, schedule a professional furnace inspection as soon as possible. Handling these furnace noises sooner rather than later is important because it:

• Prevents further furnace damage, avoiding higher repair costs
• Safeguards from potential safety hazards
• Improves energy efficiency and lowers energy bills

What to Do If Your Furnace is Making Unusual Noises

Generally speaking, if your furnace is making strange noises, there are a handful of basic troubleshooting steps you can take to eliminate the problem —or, at the very least,  identify its source. 

1. As a safety precaution, always start by shutting off the furnace, especially if you smell gas or burning odors 
2. Check the air filter — clean and replace it, if necessary
3. Check your fuse box for tripped breakers or blown fuses
4. Tighten any loose panels, screws, or other components
5. Lubricate worn bearings or other moving parts

Note: If you don’t know how to perform any of these steps or don’t feel comfortable doing them yourself, call an HVAC professional. Especially in hazardous situations where you risk fire or electric shock, it’s important to rely on furnace experts who possess the right know-how and protection for the job.

The Takeaway

Now that we understand the different furnace noises and what they mean, it’s time to reinforce the importance of scheduling regular furnace maintenance to prevent noise-related issues from happening in the first place. At T. Webber, we specialize in furnace replacement and installation, which means we also know exactly how to repair and maintain these complicated machines before they break down. 

If your furnace is making strange noises, don’t ignore them. Contact T. Webber for knowledgeable HVAC inspection and furnace repair.

If you’ve ever had your heat cut in the middle of winter, you know from experience how important it is to have a reliable heating system installed in your home. In those moments, you don’t care what’s heating your home — you just need relief from the cold. However, taking the time to evaluate your options and choosing the right heating system for your home can provide benefits beyond warmth and comfort. 

In the following article, we’ll review the two most popular types of heating systems — boiler vs. furnace — and compare their impact on indoor air quality, energy costs, and overall heating effectiveness. By the time you’re done reading this, we hope that you understand the difference between a boiler and a furnace and that you’ll be able to make an informed decision about which system is best for your home.

What Is a Boiler?

A boiler is a central heating system that uses water to distribute heat throughout your home. Unlike furnaces that heat air and circulate it through ductwork, boilers operate by heating water within a vessel using various fuel sources such as gas, oil, or electricity. They then distribute this heat through a network of pipes to radiators or radiant floor systems. 

Types of Boilers

• Steam boilers: With the help of electrical ignition, water is heated until it turns into steam (about 212°F). The steam then travels from the boiler into a network of pipes and radiators, distributing heat throughout your home.
• Hot water boilers: Using oil or gas fuel, energy is produced to heat water in a vessel. The hot water is then circulated through radiators or radiant floor systems.
• Gas boilers: Natural gas or propane is fed into a sealed chamber where it is combusted to create heat. This heat is then absorbed by a water-filled pipe and transferred throughout your home with the help of radiators.
• Oil boilers: Oil burners work the same way as gas boilers. Instead of relying on natural gas or propane as the fuel source, they utilize oil.

Advantages of a Boiler

• Energy efficiency: Boilers use less energy than furnaces because water transfers heat more effectively than air.
• Longevity: With fewer moving parts, boilers operate quietly and can last up to 30 years, outlasting most other heating systems.
• Even heat distribution: Radiant heat from boilers spreads more evenly through a space, reducing cold spots and heating rooms consistently.
• Improved air quality: Unlike forced-air systems, boilers don't circulate dust or allergens through the air.

Disadvantages of a Boiler

• Higher initial cost: Boilers typically have a higher upfront installation cost compared to furnaces.
• No built-in air conditioning: Unlike forced-air systems, boilers can't be easily integrated with central air conditioning.
• Slower heating: While radiant heat is more even, it may take longer to initially heat a cold room compared to forced-air systems.
• Risk of leaks: Water-based systems can potentially leak, causing water damage if not installed properly.

What Is a Furnace?

Sometimes referred to as forced air heating systems, furnaces burn natural gas, oil, electricity, or propane to heat air. This warm air is then distributed throughout your home via air ducts. Furnaces are typically installed in closets, basements, or attics, making them inconspicuous and, therefore, the most commonly used heating system in residential properties. 

Types of Furnaces

• Natural Gas: Gas furnaces are the most common types of furnaces found in homes. They’re connected to municipal gas lines which feed the natural gas along burners to create combustion (heat energy). Fans then circulate this heated air into your ductwork where it is distributed throughout the living spaces in your home.

• Electric: Electric furnaces employ electric heating elements to warm the air. They are usually smaller and less expensive than other types of furnaces and serve as a suitable option for homes without gas lines.

• Oil: Similar to gas furnaces, oil systems use oil as the fuel source and are often used in colder regions without access to natural gas.

Pros of Using a Furnace

• Lower upfront cost: Furnaces generally come with lower initial installation costs compared to boilers.
• Reliable heating: Furnaces warm homes faster than boilers and have more responsive temperature controls, even during the harshest winters.
• Less maintenance: Furnaces require less maintenance than other heating systems like heat pumps. They are also easier to install, especially in homes with existing ductwork.

Cons of Using a Furnace

• Higher operating costs: Depending on the fuel source, furnaces can have lower energy efficiency than boilers and are often more expensive to run. 
• Fire and explosion risk: Gas furnaces carry a risk of fires, explosions, and carbon monoxide poisoning if not properly maintained.
• Uneven heat distribution: Furnaces can produce hot and cold spots in a home due to the way air circulates — not to mention the blower and ducts generate excess noise.
• Poor air quality: Because of the forced air, furnaces can circulate dust, allergens, and other pollutants through the air.

Key Differences Between Boilers and Furnaces

Heating Method

Boilers: Radiant heating — fuel sources include natural gas, oil, and electricity

Furnaces: Forced air heating — fuel sources include natural gas, propane, oil, and electricity

Energy Efficiency

Boilers: Ratings of up to 95% Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency

Furnaces: Ratings of up to 98.5% Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency

Installation, Maintenance, and Cost

Boilers: While typically higher in upfront installation costs, boilers have fewer moving parts than furnaces and are relatively easy to maintain over time

Furnaces: While easier to install, furnaces have lower upfront costs and are also relatively easy to maintain over time

Impact on Indoor Air Quality

Boilers: Little to no impact on indoor air quality because they do not circulate airborne pollutants

Furnaces: With forced air acting as a mechanism, furnaces can circulate dust, allergens, and other pollutants through the air in your living spaces

Which Heating System is Right for You?

Factors to Consider

The best heating option for you depends on your home size, climate, existing infrastructure, budget, and personal preferences.

Scenarios Where a Boiler is Best

Boilers are ideal for homes with radiant heating systems or those prioritizing energy efficiency and air quality. They’re also more practical in colder climates since they heat more consistently.

Scenarios Where a Furnace is Best

Furnaces are ideal for homes in need of quick heating or those with existing ductwork. Because they can be installed in closets or crawl spaces, they also take up less space and are better suited for smaller homes.

Takeaways

While furnaces and boilers have their share of drawbacks and benefits, they both remain popular and effective heating options for most residential properties. Homeowners should carefully weigh the pros and cons outlined in this article to determine the best system for their heating needs. 

At T. Webber, we encourage anyone debating the difference between a boiler and a furnace to consult with an HVAC professional. Boiler installation and furnace replacement are two of our specialties, so we can provide expert guidance while you evaluate this important, long-term decision.

When it’s time to replace your furnace, there are several factors to consider. One of the first decisions you’ll have to make is whether you want a single stage furnace, a two stage furnace or a variable speed furnace. Since each of these systems works in different ways, it’s important to understand the differences between them to make an informed decision.

Single Stage Furnaces

A single stage furnace only has one setting: high. That means whenever this type of furnace kicks on, it’s running at full blast. Because they’re always running at maximum capacity regardless of the outside temperature, single stage furnaces are less energy efficient than two stage and variable speed systems.

Two Stage Furnaces

Two stage furnaces have both low and high settings. They operate on the low setting approximately 75% of the time, but the kick into high gear anytime an extra boost is needed to heat your home to the desired temperature. Because they run at low speed, they generally stay on for longer periods of time than single stage furnaces, but they heat homes more evenly. They’re also quieter than single stage furnaces.

Variable Speed Furnaces

Variable speed furnaces have blower motors that operate at varying speeds to control air flow throughout the home. They constantly monitor temperature and automatically adjust blower settings as necessary. Variable speed furnaces are efficient, quiet and offer the greatest comfort for homeowners.

Get a New Furnace in Poughkeepsie

If you’re thinking about getting a new furnace in Poughkeepsie or the surrounding areas, contact T.Webber today. Our HVAC technicians are here to help you choose the type of system that is best suited to your home as well as your family’s needs, and we offer prompt, professional installation. Schedule a service online today!