When it is cold and frosty in Colorado Springs, there is no time for exploring the why behind your heat not turning on. All you want is to get it to work so that your home is once again toasty and warm. There are several reasons why a heater can have trouble starting up in Colorado Springs. These reasons include the following:
1. Thermostat Issues
2. Electrical Problems
3. Pilot Light or Ignition Problems
4. Airflow Problems
5. Fuel Supply Issues
One Source Home Service has been a provider of heating repair services in Colorado Springs for many years. We’ve seen countless heaters with these problems and will break down each below to help you answer the question, “Why is my gas heater not turning on?”. Read on to get to the bottom of your heater’s issues.
The Answers to “Why Is My Heat Not Turning On?”
Heaters are complex mechanical units powered by a fuel source (gas or electricity) and consist of many vital parts that come together to provide your home with the comfort it needs. When you find that your heater is not working, it may be caused by any one of the malfunctioning components described below.
Thermostat Issues
The thermostat is in charge of regulating the temperatures in your home. If it is set incorrectly or has battery-related problems, the entire heating system will malfunction or won’t turn on at all.
Incorrect Settings
Your thermostat must be set correctly to work efficiently while providing your home with the necessary comfort. In colder climates like Colorado Springs, a good starting range for your thermostat will be between 68-72°F (20-22°C). You can lower these temperatures by 6 or 7 degrees when you’re away from home or are sleeping. Be sure not to go lower or higher than a 10-degree margin from outside temperatures.
If available, take advantage of the programmable features of your thermostat to set the appropriate temperatures in advance.
Battery-Related Problems
The main battery-related problem with thermostats is when the batteries die. If your heater is not turning on, we recommend changing the batteries to see if that fixes the problem.
Electrical Problems
Every heating system has an electrical system that can cause issues when broken or malfunctioning. Electrical problems in a heater include blown fuses, tripped circuit breaks, and faulty connections.
Blown Fuses or Tripped Circuit Breakers
Blown fuses or tripped circuit breakers interrupt the power supply to your heater. This typically happens when the circuit board is overloaded and is forced to cut off the power to the heater. Though this is a safety mechanism that prevents damage and fires, it will cause significant problems with your heater not turning on to warm your home.
Faulty Wiring or Connections
Just like tripped circuit boards, faulty wiring connections can also cause interruptions in delivering electricity through the heater. If you notice any damage, corrosion, or loose wiring around the heater, it is recommended that you contact a heater repair technician for help with addressing the issue.
Pilot Light or Ignition Problems
If you have a gas heater and ask, “Why is my gas heater not turning on?” the answer may very well lay in the pilot light or ignition system. Both of these systems are crucial to providing heat throughout your home, and their issues will cause the heater not to work appropriately.
Pilot Light Out or Malfunction
The pilot light is a continuous flame that ignites the main burner of the heating system. Without this light, the system will not stay on.
This problem is most commonly caused by excess dust and debris on the pilot light assembly. It can also indicate a gas supply issue, which a heater repair tech in Colorado Springs must investigate.
Ignition System Issues
The ignition system receives signals from the thermostat when heating is needed. If the ignition system malfunctions, it won’t be able to kickstart the heater to power on. This will undoubtedly have you wondering why my heater is not turning on.
Malfunctioning ignition systems are typically caused by wiring or sensor issues, a significant accumulation of dust or corrosion, or ignition control problems. This problem must be diagnosed and repaired by a professional heating repair technician in Colorado Springs.
Airflow Problems
A heater must have proper airflow for it to function efficiently and effectively. Airflow problems are often caused by blocked air filters and issues with the blower motor.
Blocked or Dirty Air Filters
Air filters are frequently overwhelmed with dust and debris that they filter out of the air flowing through the system. It is essential to check, clean, or replace your air filters at least every 4 to 6 weeks, depending on how often you use the heater. Clean filters will help you avoid interruptions in your heating system.
Issues with the Blower Motor
The blower motor also plays a part in moving air through ducts and into the rooms of your home. Sometimes, blower motors become worn out or damaged and must be replaced. Your heating system must be serviced by a heating maintenance technician so that you avoid these issues.
Fuel Supply Issues
Fuel is fundamental to the operation of the heating system. Any issues with fuel supply can quickly lead to heating disruptions and a cold home.
Insufficient Fuel Supply
Insufficient fuel supply occurs when your heating system doesn’t receive enough propane, natural gas, or another fuel source to generate the heat for your home. This can lead to inconsistent heating or a complete shutdown of the heating system.
Fuel Line Problems
Fuel line problems can block fuel flow from the source to the heating system, preventing it from operating effectively. These issues could result from leaks, clogs, or damage to the fuel lines. For this reason, fuel lines must be inspected regularly to ensure they are not damaged.
Is Your Colorado Springs Heater Giving You a Hard Time?
Is your heating system not running or turning on? Don’t be stuck without heat! Setup a Service Request with One Source Home Service today for the most qualified and high-quality repairs in Colorado Springs! With our expert professionals, your home’s comfort will be restored in no time!
