You Think That the Mild Azusa Weather Expempts Your HVAC From Problems and Failure? Not at All.
Winter in Azusa might not bring snow, but the cooler months still mean your HVAC system works overtime to keep your home comfortable. Unfortunately, winter often highlights hidden issues in your heating system. From inconsistent temperatures to skyrocketing energy bills, these problems can leave you in the cold—literally.
Here’s what Azusa homeowners need to know about common winter HVAC problems, how to identify them, and how to keep your system running smoothly.
1. Uneven Heating in Your Home
If certain rooms in your home feel colder than others, it might be a sign of poor airflow or issues with your ductwork. Uneven heating can be caused by blocked vents, leaky ducts, or an underperforming furnace.
How to Spot It:
- Walk through your home and note if any rooms feel significantly colder or warmer than others.
- Check the vents to ensure they’re not blocked by furniture or curtains.
- Hold your hand over the vents to feel if the airflow is weak or inconsistent.
Solution:
- Move any furniture or items obstructing the vents.
- Schedule a professional inspection to identify and fix duct leaks.
2. Rising Energy Bills
A sudden spike in your energy bills during winter could mean your HVAC system is struggling to keep up. Dirty filters, aging components, or an inefficient system could be to blame.
How to Spot It:
- Compare your current energy bills to those from previous months or the same time last year.
- Listen for your HVAC system running longer than usual to maintain the desired temperature.
Solution:
- Replace filters regularly to maintain proper airflow.
- Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat to optimize energy use.
- Have a technician from Stewart Air Systems perform a seasonal tune-up.
3. Frequent Cycling On and Off
Short cycling, when your heater turns on and off too often, can indicate problems like a dirty filter, an oversized system, or thermostat malfunctions. Left unchecked, this issue can lead to system wear and higher energy bills.
How to Spot It:
- Pay attention to how often your system cycles on and off. If it’s starting and stopping frequently, you may have a problem.
- Check if your home is maintaining a consistent temperature.
Solution:
- Inspect your air filter and replace it if it’s clogged.
- Ensure your thermostat is calibrated and located away from heat sources like direct sunlight or appliances.
- Schedule a professional inspection to identify the root cause.
4. Unusual Noises from Your HVAC System
Rattling, banging, or whistling noises coming from your system aren’t just annoying—they often signal mechanical problems like loose components, a failing motor, or airflow restrictions.
How to Spot It:
- Listen for unusual sounds when your HVAC system turns on or while it’s running.
- Check if the noises get louder over time or if they correspond to reduced system performance.
Solution:
- Turn off your system and call an HVAC professional to diagnose and fix the issue.
- Preventative maintenance can help catch these problems before they start.
5. Pilot Light or Ignition Problems
If your furnace isn’t producing heat, the pilot light or electronic ignition system could be the culprit. Older systems with pilot lights are particularly prone to issues during winter.
How to Spot It:
- Check if your pilot light is out or if it’s flickering. A steady blue flame is normal, while a yellow or orange flame indicates a problem.
- For systems with electronic ignition, look for error codes or blinking lights on your furnace.
Solution:
- Relight the pilot light if it’s out, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- If the flame is discolored or doesn’t stay lit, call a professional.
- For electronic ignition systems, contact a technician for advanced troubleshooting.
How to Prevent These Problems Before They Start
The best way to avoid winter HVAC issues is through regular maintenance. A seasonal inspection can catch potential problems early and ensure your system operates efficiently all winter long. Here’s what a maintenance visit typically includes:
- Inspecting and cleaning filters, coils, and other components.
- Checking for proper airflow and ductwork integrity.
- Testing the thermostat for accurate calibration.
- Lubricating moving parts to reduce wear and tear.
For more tips on preparing your HVAC system for the colder months, check out our blog on Holiday HVAC Prep.
Stay Warm This Winter with Stewart Air Systems
Don’t let winter HVAC problems leave you in the cold. At Stewart Air Systems, we specialize in keeping Azusa homes warm and comfortable. Whether you need repairs, maintenance, or a brand-new system, our team has the expertise to get the job done right.
Contact us today to schedule your winter HVAC service and enjoy peace of mind all season long.