An electric central heating system has various electrical components, such as the thermostat, heat pump, compressor, and many more. If these parts malfunction, they can undermine the efficiency of the entire heating system. Therefore, it's paramount to inspect electrical parts and be on the lookout for telltale signs that indicate impending failure. Keep reading to find out the top indicators of electrical problems with your central heating system.
Tripping Circuit Breaker
Does your circuit breaker trip every time you turn on the heating system? If so, this could be a sign of electrical problems in the system and, mainly, the compressor. The compressor facilitates heating by pumping the refrigerant between two heat exchanger coils. If the component isn't working, it can cause the outdoor unit to overheat. This, in turn, causes it to overdraw power and trip the circuit breaker. You need to replace the compressor and restore the proper functioning of the heating system.
System Short Cycling
When your heating system is working correctly, it turns on and runs until the thermostat detects the set temperature. This is known as a normal heating cycle. There are instances when the heater stops and starts running again before reaching the preset temperature. This is known as short cycling.
Short cycling can occur due to various problems such as faulty thermostat sensors and incorrect thermostat placement. It can lead to mechanical failure of unit components; thus, you should identify and fix the problem immediately to prevent further damage to the system.
Inadequate Heating
An electric heating system relies on electrical energy to heat a house adequately. Thus, if you aren't getting enough heat, you should check the electrical parts of the system. Inadequate heating usually points to a problem with the furnace. The furnace has heating elements that convert electrical energy to heat. If one of the elements malfunctions, the system won't be able to generate enough heat for your home. As a result, it will fail to reach the desired temperature, even after the thermostat is set. Replacing the worn element should fix this problem.
Unexplainably High Heating Costs
Are your heating costs increasing with no changes in consumption? This could indicate a problem with the heater. Usually, increased energy consumption occurs due to poor maintenance of parts such as the air filters, compressor, or furnace. However, it could also be as a result of electrical problems in the system. For example, a faulty thermostat could misread indoor temperatures and cause the heater to run excessively. Similarly, capacitor issues can cause the heat pump to drain a lot of power when in operation.
Don't wait for your entire heating system to malfunction for you to fix the problem. Talk to a heating repair contractor to learn more.
Share30 July 2020
Working with HVAC contractors is an important part of being a homeowner. Not only do your contractors ensure that a new system you buy is properly installed, but they also ensure optimal performance throughout the years through a series of regular inspections, maintenance services, and repairs. But there are lots of things you can do in between your contractor's visits to ensure that your HVAC investment is always in tip top condition, aside from cleaning out the air filters. After working with my dad for more than a decade in the HVAC business, I've put together a few methods homeowners can use to maintain a well working system, and I have published those tips and tricks right here on this blog. I hope some of the information you find here helps you on your journey as a homeowner!
