The mild winters in Birmingham, AL, can quickly turn chilly, making a reliable heating system absolutely essential for comfort and safety. When your furnace or heat pump starts acting up, it can quickly turn a comfortable home into a stressful environment. At Plus One Heating, Air & Plumbing, we are more than just HVAC providers; we are your neighbors dedicated to ensuring consistent warmth and peace of mind throughout Homewood, Vestavia Hills, and the entire Greater Birmingham area. Before you reach for the phone to call us—though we are always ready at (659) 212-6148—here are some common heating problems you can often troubleshoot yourself. Understanding these issues can save you time, reduce stress, and help you recognize when it’s time for professional expertise.
Tackling Frequent Furnace Issues
It’s often the small, seemingly simple things that cause the biggest headaches when your heating system fails. Knowing where to look first can be the key to swift resolution and preventing minor issues from escalating into costly repairs.
Your Furnace Isn't Turning On
This is perhaps the most frustrating issue. If your furnace won't respond, the very first place to check is the thermostat. Ensure it is set to "Heat" and that the temperature setting is significantly higher than the current room temperature. Next, check your circuit breaker box. Furnaces draw a lot of power, and a momentary surge can trip the breaker, cutting power to the unit. Simply resetting the breaker may be all you need to do. Lastly, many furnaces have a safety shut-off switch, often resembling a light switch, located near the unit; confirm that this switch hasn't been accidentally turned off.
The System is Blowing Cold Air
If your unit is running but only cold air is coming out, the culprit is often a simple issue that directly relates to the system’s ability to generate heat. The most frequent cause we see at Plus One Heating, Air & Plumbing is a clogged air filter. A dirty filter restricts airflow, which can cause the unit to overheat and shut down the heat exchanger as a safety measure. For Birmingham's climate, which is often dustier than homeowners realize, checking and replacing the filter monthly is a key part of your system's preventative care. If the filter is clean, the issue could be with the pilot light or ignition sensor, which requires professional attention, especially for safety concerns.
Weak Airflow from Vents
Poor airflow leads to uneven heating and forces your system to run longer, drastically reducing efficiency and raising your energy bill. The first thing to inspect is the vent registers themselves—make sure none are blocked by furniture, drapes, or rugs. When the return and supply vents are obstructed, the entire system struggles. If the vents are clear, the weak flow points back to a severely clogged air filter or potentially a deeper issue within the ductwork, such as leaks or blockages. Given the humidity challenges in the Birmingham area, professional duct inspections can sometimes reveal hidden moisture-related issues impacting airflow.
System Cycles On and Off Too Frequently (Short Cycling)
When a heating system turns on and off too often, it’s known as "short cycling," and it’s a major sign of trouble. This usually indicates that the furnace is overheating and shutting down prematurely. The two main causes are, once again, a clogged air filter restricting airflow, or an oversized furnace. An oversized unit heats the space too quickly, satisfies the thermostat, and shuts off before completing a full cycle. If your furnace is new and exhibiting this behavior, it may not be correctly sized for your home—a key installation detail Plus One Heating, Air & Plumbing always ensures is correct for the unique needs of Homewood, Vestavia Hills, and surrounding Alabama homes.
When to Call a Professional
While these troubleshooting tips can help resolve basic issues, certain problems require the expertise of licensed, insured, and certified technicians. If you detect a strong odor of gas, hear unusual noises like scraping or grinding, or if the issue persists after checking the breaker and filter, it's time to call in the professionals. Our team at Plus One Heating, Air & Plumbing offers 24/7 emergency HVAC services and same-day appointments, equipped with fully stocked vehicles to quickly diagnose and repair complex issues across Birmingham, ensuring your home returns to being the comfortable haven you deserve.
Don't risk a DIY repair on a complex system; contact us today for reliable and expert service at (659) 212-6148.