As the weather cools down in the Sacramento area, your heating system gets ready for its biggest workout of the year. If your furnace or heat pump is making unusual noises or struggling to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home, don't panic! Many common heating issues have simple fixes you can try before calling a professional. Knowing these steps can often restore your home's comfort quickly and prove to be a first defense against the cold.

If you've tried the troubleshooting steps below and your heating system is still failing, don't wait. Our experienced team is ready for same-day repairs! Contact us now at (916) 741-6799 or schedule your service today.

Problem 1: No Heat or Weak Airflow

If your system turns on but blows cold air, or if the heat isn't reaching all your rooms, here are the first checks to make.

Check Your Thermostat Settings

This is the most straightforward fix, but often the most overlooked.

Ensure the mode is set to "Heat" and the fan to "Auto" (not "On"). Setting the fan to "On" can blow unheated air when the furnace isn't actively running.
Confirm the temperature setting is higher than the current room temperature.
If your thermostat runs on batteries, try replacing them with fresh ones.

Inspect Your Air Filter

A clogged air filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder and sometimes causing it to overheat and shut down.

Locate the filter, usually near the furnace unit in the basement, closet, or attic.
If it looks dark, dusty, or blocked, replace it immediately. A clean filter is essential for maintaining the efficiency and longevity of a trusted system.

Verify Power and Switches

A small switch can sometimes shut down the whole system.

Check the circuit breaker box. Has the breaker labeled "Furnace" or "Air Handler" tripped? If so, reset it.
Many furnaces have a power switch that resembles a regular light switch, typically located near the unit. Make sure this is in the "on" position.

Problem 2: Strange Noises or Constant Cycling

If your system is running but making unusual noises, or if it turns on and off too frequently (known as short-cycling), it requires attention.

Loud Banging or Clanking

A sudden, loud noise often means a part is loose or broken inside the unit.

Turn the system off immediately to prevent further damage.
This is a situation that requires a professional, as internal component failure can be complex and risky to repair on your own.

Squealing or Chirping

This sound often indicates a problem with the blower motor belt or bearings.

Worn-out belts or dry bearings can create excessive friction, potentially leading to system failure if left unaddressed.
This issue requires professional repair to prevent motor burnout.

Short Cycling

If your furnace keeps turning on for a short time and then shutting off, it might be due to a clogged filter or a dirty flame sensor.

A dirty flame sensor can mistakenly indicate that the burner is not lit, causing the unit to shut down for safety reasons.
Although simple to clean, the sensor's location requires careful handling; we recommend calling a technician for this maintenance.

When to Call the Trusted Professionals

While these checks can resolve minor issues, some problems should always be addressed by a licensed professional to ensure a safe and proper resolution.

Call Bud's Plumbing, Heating, & Air immediately if you notice:

No heat, even after checking the thermostat and power.
A smell of gas (leave the house immediately and call the gas company!).
A persistent burning odor coming from the vents.
Loud, unusual banging or grinding noises from the unit.
Water pooling around the furnace or heat pump.

For expert diagnosis, reliable repairs on all major brands, and straightforward pricing, trust the HVAC team that Sacramento has relied on since 1962.

Contact Bud's Plumbing, Heating, & Air to schedule your expert heating repair. Call us at (916) 741-6799 today!

Troubleshooting Common Heating Problems