Can Make It to Winter’s Finish Line
Whether it’s a heater repair in Bastrop or a comprehensive check-up nearby, we’re here to safeguard your comfort through the colder months. Our expertise extends to diagnosing and addressing common heating system issues that may arise as winter progresses, including frozen pipes, carbon monoxide (CO) leaks, and malfunctioning thermostats. These challenges, while daunting, can be mitigated with our professional guidance and services. At Blue Ribbon, we’re the team you can rely on for exceptional residential heating services, including heating repair in Bastrop and nearby.
To help you avoid last-minute problems, we’ve created a list of seven of the most common problems you might notice with your heating system late in the season:
1. Frozen pipes. Although we don’t typically experience temperatures below freezing in our area in February, it can happen. So, stay alert and, if the temps drop below 32 degrees, check your pipes to make sure they haven’t frozen. If they have, you should call us or take steps to thaw them out on your own to prevent them from bursting.
2. CO leaks. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. It is the result of incomplete natural gas combustion and can be a problem in your home if you have a gas furnace or other gas appliances. Problems with your furnace that can generate CO include: a cracked heat exchanger, a malfunctioning pilot light, loose pipes or a blocked chimney. For your family’s safety, make sure you have CO detectors in your home. Also, make sure any issues that can produce CO are fixed immediately.
3. Damaged heat pump or furnace. As the winter season drags on, your heat pump or furnace works hard and has a greater chance of experiencing problems, such as broken belts, leaks and a cracked heat exchanger. One of the best ways to prevent or minimize problems is routine maintenance. And even though the winter is almost over, it’s never too late to schedule your checkup.
4. Poor airflow. This problem happens when your vents and ducts are blocked. Look for furniture or other items placed over your vents or excess dust and/or pet hair clogging vents.
5. Malfunctioning thermostat. In addition to not being properly calibrated, other problems with your thermostat could include: a malfunctioning sensor, loose wiring or a failed computer chip. All of these issues can impede your thermostat’s proper performance.
6. Flickering pilot light. This problem can be caused by drafts or by a dirty or damaged flame sensor. You can protect the pilot light from drafts with a properly placed vent cover. And you can solve the flame sensor problem by cleaning or replacing it.
7. Dirty air filter. A dirty air filter can make your home colder and less comfortable. It can also compromise your heater’s energy efficiency and cause your monthly heating bills to climb. Cleaning or changing your air filter regularly is a quick and easy fix. We recommend you change your air filter at least every three months—more frequently if you have respiratory issues or if your family includes pets.
If you need reliable heating services, including a heat pump installation in Austin, the team at Blue Ribbon is the one to trust. We’re also experts with air conditioning, indoor air quality, plumbing and sewers & drains. Call us at 512.866.9161 or contact us through our website.