When temperatures drop, your home should be a warm and comfortable retreat. But what happens when your heating system suddenly breaks down and what are the reasons the heater stopped working? Whether you’re wondering, “Why is my heater not working in my house?” or “Why does my heater randomly turn off?”—you’re not alone. Many homeowners experience heating problems, and understanding the causes can help you address them quickly.

A faulty heater isn’t just inconvenient; it can also be dangerous. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), heating equipment accounted for 14% of all reported home fires between 2014 and 2018. Proper maintenance and timely repairs can prevent breakdowns and keep your home safe and warm.

If you’re searching for “heater repair near me” or “heating repair near me,” it’s crucial to understand the common reasons the heater stopped working. Below, we explore five potential issues and what you can do about them.

1. Lack of Regular Maintenance

One of the most common reasons homeowners experience heating issues is a lack of maintenance. If you’ve been skipping your annual tune-up, your heating system may be clogged with dust and debris, leading to reduced efficiency or even failure.

Possible Issues Due to Poor Maintenance:

  • Dirty Air Filters: Clogged filters restrict airflow, causing your furnace to work harder or overheat, leading to system failure.
  • Blocked Blower Motor: A dirty blower can prevent your system from distributing heat effectively, leaving some rooms colder than others.
  • Faulty Flame Sensor: A dirty flame sensor can cause your heater to shut off shortly after turning on.

Solution: Schedule a professional tune-up at least once a year. If you haven’t had maintenance in a while and find yourself wondering, “Why is my house heater not working?” it may be time to call a technician for a thorough inspection.

2. Thermostat Problems

A malfunctioning thermostat is a frequent culprit behind heating issues. If your heat is on but not working, your thermostat could be the reason.

Signs of a Faulty Thermostat:

  • The heater won’t turn on or off at the right times.
  • The temperature in your home doesn’t match the thermostat setting.
  • The display is blank or unresponsive.

Solution: First, check if the thermostat is set to “heat” mode and the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature. If it’s battery-operated, replace the batteries. If the issue persists, a professional can diagnose whether the thermostat needs recalibration or replacement.

3. Electrical or Power Supply Issues

Sometimes, the issue isn’t with the heater itself but with the power supply.

Common Electrical Problems:

  • A tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse.
  • Loose or damaged wiring inside the furnace.
  • A failing blower capacitor (which helps start the motor).

Solution: Check your circuit breaker to ensure it hasn’t tripped. If your central heater is not working despite resetting the breaker, or if you hear unusual clicking sounds, it’s best to call a professional for heating repair.

4. Low Refrigerant Levels in a Heat Pump

If you use a heat pump instead of a furnace, low refrigerant levels can affect your heating system’s ability to warm your home efficiently.

Signs of Low Refrigerant:

  • The heat strips turn on too frequently, causing high energy bills.
  • The system runs continuously but doesn’t adequately heat your home.
  • Ice buildup on the outdoor unit.

Solution: A certified HVAC technician can check for leaks and recharge your refrigerant. Ignoring this issue could cause the compressor to overheat and fail, leading to expensive repairs or even furnace installation.

5. Poor Ductwork Design or Installation

If you’ve been struggling with uneven heating or weak airflow, the problem may not be with your heater but with your ductwork.

Ductwork Issues That Affect Heating:

  • Leaks in the ductwork cause heat loss before it reaches your living spaces.
  • Improperly sized ducts restrict airflow, leading to inefficient heating.
  • Poorly designed duct systems can cause your heater to short-cycle and overheat.

Solution: A professional HVAC inspection can identify and resolve ductwork issues. Sealing leaks and optimizing duct design can significantly improve your home’s heating efficiency.

Why Timely Heating Repairs Matter

Addressing heater issues early prevents costly breakdowns and extends the lifespan of your system. Whether you need minor repairs or are considering “furnace companies near me” for a new installation, professional HVAC services ensure your home stays warm and safe.

For Heating Services in Houston, TX, Contact P&M Air Conditioning and Heating Today

If you’re dealing with a malfunctioning heater and need reliable “heater repair near me,” P&M Air Conditioning and Heating is here to help. Our experienced technicians provide expert heating repair, maintenance, and furnace installation services to keep your home comfortable year-round.

Don’t wait until the cold weather arrives—schedule a service appointment today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your heating system is in top condition.

Call us now to book an appointment!