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What Should I Check if My Heater is Not Working Properly?

When the cold hits Amarillo, a broken heater is a major inconvenience, but it can also be an emergency. If your heater stops working or fails to keep your home warm as well as it once did, it’s important to troubleshoot early before small issues become costly emergencies. Often, this is as simple as checking your thermostat, power supply, and changing air filters.

At A&R Mechanical, we’re here 24/7 to keep your home warm and safe. Below are some simple things you can check yourself before calling in the pros.

Thermostat Settings and Power

Start with the thermostat. Is it set to “heat”, and is the temperature high enough to trigger your system? To balance comfort with energy savings, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 68°F to 70°F while you’re awake and at home, then turn it lower while you are sleeping or away.

If you’ve recently lost power or experienced a surge, your system may need a reset. Check the circuit breaker too—sometimes it’s just a tripped switch. Or if your thermostat is battery-operated, try replacing the batteries.

Dirty Air Filters

A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, causing your system to work harder. If your heat is blowing unevenly or it is taking longer than usual to heat your home, the air filter could be the culprit. If it’s been more than 30 to 90 days since your last filter change, now is the time to do it.

Fresh filters not only help restore airflow but also improve indoor air quality and reduce allergens.

Pilot Light and Ignition

If you have a gas heating system, check the ignition switch and pilot light. If the light is out or the ignition is off, simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the unit to relight it. If you need help with this step, don’t hesitate to call a professional.

Blocked Vents

Uneven heating could simply be the result of blocked or closed air vents. Check each room for furniture, rugs, or drapes covering vents. Then inspect the vent covers themselves and vacuum dust and debris, and make sure all are open.

If the Problem Isn’t Solved

If you’ve tried these simple steps and your heat hasn’t returned to full capacity, there’s likely a deeper issue at play. At this point, it’s safest and smartest to call a professional HVAC technician.

Here are common signs you need professional heating service:

  • Blower fan won’t turn on
  • Heat runs constantly without warming the home
  • Burning smells or strange sounds
  • System turns on and off repeatedly
  • No heat at all

If your heater completely fails in the middle of winter, this is an emergency. Freezing temperatures can be life-threatening, and using alternative sources of heat can expose you to carbon monoxide risk. We recommend following the CDC guidelines for heating your home safely (CDC, Safety Guidelines: During & After a Winter Storm). A&R Mechanical offers 24/7 heating services, even on holidays and weekends, so you don’t have to worry about waiting for business hours.

Stay Warm with A&R Mechanical

Don’t wait until your home is freezing to think about heating repair. Whether you need a quick fix, long-term solution, or just expert advice, our team is here to help.

A&R Mechanical proudly provides Amarillo HVAC services to keep your family warm and safe year-round. From heat pump services and tune-ups to full replacements, we’re your local heating and cooling experts.

Call A&R Mechanical today for furnace repair estimates, seasonal maintenance, or emergency heating repair, and rest easy knowing your comfort is in good hands.