That's how neighbors should treat neighbors!™

330-262-4100 Open 24 hours, 7 days a week
Don't suffer through HVAC problems in the winter. Let our experts teach you what to look for, and when to call in the pros!

5 Common Winter HVAC Problems

Posted: February 13, 2023 by Hey Neighbor

Now that the coziness of family time during the holidays has passed, Mother Nature is doing what she does best - bring on the freezing temperatures! And as homeowners find out all too often, cold weather and plummeting temperatures can lead to HVAC problems. But don't worry! Our neighborly HVAC technicians share expert tips on regaining warmth when the five most frequent winter issues happen.

1. This room's hot, that room's cold, another one's drafty.

Do you feel that some of your rooms are colder than others? This is common, especially in winter, when warmth can be elusive. So, what's happening? Your heating system could be distributing warm air unevenly due to a variety of factors. Here are some simple tricks you can do to try and remedy the situation.

First - and we give our customers this recommendation frequently - change your air filter regularly. A dirty or clogged filter can cause all sorts of issues. Second, inspect your vents and returns to ensure they aren't covered by furniture or other bulky items. If these tricks solved the uneven airflow, great! If not, your problem is probably something else - a blocked fan, an air leak, or even an obstruction inside a vent. Don't panic! Give our team a call, and we'll come to diagnose the issue in a jiffy.

2. The thermostat needs attention, stat!

Believe it or not, sometimes your thermostat is to blame for insufficient warmth. Homeowners often find that dead batteries or faulty wiring inside the thermostat are causing the problem. If you just changed the batteries and the wiring doesn't appear to be the issue, your thermostat may need to be cleaned and recalibrated. Find your thermostat's owner's manual and follow the proper steps for cleaning and calibrating (our team can do this for you).

If these solutions don't solve the issue, it could be time for a replacement unit. The good news is that upgrading to a smart or programmable thermostat won't just improve your airflow problems but also boost your energy efficiency and save you money. To learn what type of thermostat might work best for your living space, or to seek help with other thermostat problems, feel free to call the Hey Neighbor Heating & Cooling team for advice.

3. Your furnace's ignitor isn't lighting or won't stay lit.

If your home is heated using gas, you rely on an ignitor to start your heating system. Some systems have a continuously running pilot light, while others only ignite when the thermostat sends a signal to start the heating process. Regardless, without a properly working ignitor, you aren't going to get any heat. So, what's the problem? If your furnace won't start, the issue could be a dirty or damaged sensor. We don't recommend cleaning the sensor yourself. Instead, call us out for a professional inspection. If it's more than a faulty sensor, our technicians will assess your ignitor situation and solve the problem straight away.

4. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a constant concern.

As you probably know, carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly. And while it's wise to have at least one CO detector in your home, these detectors are crucial for homeowners who heat their homes with gas. If you have a CO detector installed and it's chirping a single, short beep, this indicates its battery is low and should be replaced right away. Replacing the batteries is a simple fix and should never be neglected.

However, if you hear four long beeps and then a pause, this indicates that significant levels of carbon monoxide have been detected inside your home. You should leave and call for help immediately - and remember your pets. Remember, CO is called the silent killer because it's nearly impossible to detect without a device watching over your family's safety. Taking good care of your CO detector can save your life!

5. Your heat pump isn't pumping enough heat.

A heat pump is a clever, energy-efficient device that heats and cools your home. But, sometimes, winter weather can take its toll on a heat pump. Common winter HVAC issues for heat pumps include low refrigerant, an obstructed coil from snow or ice, a dirty air filter, and a faulty starter capacitor. Most homeowners can handle a simple air filter change, but if you suspect your heat pump is experiencing a more complex issue, call our team for professional service, day or night.

Keep your HVAC system healthy in 2023 and beyond!

All of us at Hey Neighbor Heating & Cooling hope the new year has been a great one for your family so far. As the year unfolds, we want you to know that our friendly team of experienced specialists is here for all your HVAC needs - heating, cooling, indoor air quality issues, and more - 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

In addition, we want to remind you that 2023 is bringing some big changes to the world of HVAC. From SEER2 energy regulations to major home improvement savings you can enjoy thanks to the new Inflation Reduction Act, many exciting changes are happening that'll help make your home more comfortable than ever.

As always, if you have questions of any kind regarding your family's comfort or you simply need to schedule that seasonal system tune-up, call us today. We're here for you, because that's how neighbors should treat neighbors!™

 


more great articles...

Egg-cellent HVAC Best Practices

Preventative Maintenance Is A Savvy Move   |   Is A Whole-House Humidifier Right For Me?

The Best New Year's Resolution   |   A Neighborly Guide to Furnaces

Maximize Your HVAC Tax Credits   |   Why Natural Gas Furnaces Trump Electric Ones

Why Background Checks And Drug Testing Matter   |   Why Is My Filter Wet?

Smoke and CO Detector Best Practices   |   Banishing Humidity Woes

Beware the Dog Days of Summer!   |   The R22 Phase-Out And The Importance Of AC Maintenance

Smart Thermostat Best Practices   |   Severe Weather Can Harm Your AC

Dirty Ductwork Dilemmas   |   Handling Household Emergencies

Why Isn't My AC Working?   |   SEER2 101

Better HVAC = Higher Home Value   |   My AC Sounds Like Running Water

Beware Animal Hair!   |   Air Purifier Q&A

How To Set Your AC When You're Away   |   Save Money This Summer

My AC Won't Turn On!   |   The Benefits Of A Central AC System

8 Handy Spring Cleaning Tips   |   Can I Finance An HVAC System?

My Furnace Won't Turn Off!   |   Before You Buy A Smart Thermostat

How Much Insulation Do I Need?   |   How The Inflation Reduction Act Can Help You

HVAC Basics For New Homeowners   |   5 Common Winter HVAC Problems

Programmable Thermostats 101   |   Can A Furnace Catch Fire?

Staying Warm During Extremely Cold Weather   |   Is A Heat Pump Right For Me?

Is My Heater Broken?   |   Let's Talk About Carbon Monoxide

HVAC: Why It's A Great Career   |   Winter Storm Safety Tips

4 Tasks For The Pros & 3 To DIY   |   When Should I Replace My HVAC System?

How Does a Gas Furnace Work?   |   6 Things To Know About Smart Thermostats

Do I Need A Humidifier?   |   These Mistakes Will Spike Your Energy Bill

How Long Will My Furnace Last?   |   All About Furnace Tune-Ups

How Does HVAC Zoning Work?   |   That Dirty Filter Is Costing You Money!

Thermostat Best Practices: Fan ON or AUTO?   |   Choosing The Right HVAC Equipment

10 Things To Do Before Using Your Furnace   |   What Affects Air Conditioning Efficiency?

Is Air Quality Worse In The Summer?   |   Keeping Your Upstairs Comfortable

The Dog Days Of Summer   |   Help! My AC Is Leaking Refrigerant!

Summer Furnace Upgrades Are Ideal   |   4 Common AC Buying Mistakes

Remove Those Hot Spots!   |   Older ACs Can Be Health And Safety Hazards

Prepping Your AC For Summer   |   Help! My AC Is Leaking Water!

A Bigger AC Isn't Necessarily Better   |   Landscaping Best Practices Around Your AC Unit

How Old Is My Central AC System?   |   Whole-House Dehumidifiers Vs. Portable Units

Air Scrubbers And Why You Need Them   |   Why Is My Home's AC Not Running?

Turn On Your AC After Winter The Right Way   |   Stop Those Pesky Air Leaks!

Why Spring HVAC Maintenance Is Important   |   Copper AC Coils vs. Aluminum

Your Thermostat Can Save You Money   |   6 Furnace Safety Features

Change Your Thermostat Batteries Yearly   |   Super Bowl Party Tips

How Your Gas Furnace Works   |   Winter Heating Safety Risks

Help! What's This Blinking Light Mean?   |   HVAC Maintenance Goals

New Year, New AC!   |   New Year's HVAC Resolutions

The 12 Days Of Safety   |   7 Signs You Need A New Furnace

Trane Comfort Specialist - What It Means   |   Optimal Winter Thermostat Settings

Ideal Humidity = Ideal Comfort   |   Avoid Cold Spots In Your Home

Save Money This Winter   |   Beware Of HVAC Systems That Go Bump In The Night!

Is My Water Heater Dying?   |   5 Reasons To Upgrade Your Thermostat

Debunking 7 Common Radon Myths   |   It's Annual Furnace Tune-Up Time!

HVAC Tips For Pet Owners   |   Fall HVAC Preparation Checklist

Back-To-School HVAC Maintenance   |   Let's Talk About Air Filters

How Does Central Air Conditioning Work?   |   Air Cleaners vs. Air Filters

4 Signs It's Time For A New AC   |   Exploring Your Central AC System

AC Repairs - Least & Most Expensive   |   Air Conditioning's Top 10 Benefits

Does My Water Heater Need Repaired Or Replaced?   |   Protect Your AC Condenser From Bad Weather

Air Purifiers 101   |   3 Factors That Affect AC Efficiency

Don't Let Mold Harm Your Home And Your Health   |   What Type Of Furnace Is Right For Me?

Add UV Lighting For Your Family's Health   |   Stop Wasting Energy!

Here's 5 Great Home Makeover Ideas For The New Year   |   New HVAC System On Your Christmas List?

5 Easy Tasks To Prepare Your Home For Winter   |   Let's Talk About Your Leaky Ductwork

Please Don't Cover Up Your Thermostat   |   Tame These HVAC Scares This Halloween

What Do All These Letters Mean?   |   6 Easy, Affordable Ways To Boost Your Home's Value

Low Temperature = Quality Sleep   |   What Does HVAC Mean, And What Does It Stand For?

My AC Runs But Isn't Cold - What's Up?   |   Is Your AC Prepared For Summer's Thunderstorms?

Something's Wrong With My AC!   |   How Can I Afford A New Cooling System?

5 Easy Tasks To Prepare Your Home For Summer   |   The Problem With A Clogged Filter

5 AC Myths That Are Costing You Money   |   My Air Conditioner Smells Gross!

6 Signs It's Time For A New AC   |   5 Easy DIY Projects While You're Social Distancing

Choosing The Right Thermostat   |   What Does SEER Mean?

5 Easy Tasks To Prepare Your Home For Spring   |   Improve Your Winter Air Quality

The R-22 Ban: Do I Need To Replace My AC?   |   8 New Year's Resolutions For Your Family's Comfort

Using Your Programmable Thermostat Well   |   I Need A Quieter Furnace!

Know The Signs Of A Cracked Heat Exchanger   |   Carbon Monoxide FAQ

What's The Best Air Filter For My Allergies?   |   14 Easy Ways To Winterize Your Home

What's Up With My Weird Thermostat?   |   A Yearly Furnace Tune-Up Is Essential - Here's Why

Window AC Units Can Be Dangerous!   |   Prevent Summer Weather From Damaging Your Home

Why Is My Air Conditioner So Loud?   |   Keeping Cool In Hot Weather

Is It Time To Replace My AC?   |   Central Air Is The Best Cooling Option

Is An HVAC Tune-Up Really Worth It?   |   Does My Air Conditioner Need Repaired?

How To Reduce Dust In Your Home   |   The Importance Of Annual AC Tune-Ups

Improve Your Indoor Air Quality   |   Reduce Allergens In Your Home

Warmer Weather And Your Thermostat   |   Prepare Your AC For The Season

Time To Replace Your Furnace?   |   Handling Extreme Cold Well

Home Insulation Saves You Money   |   Humidity Isn't Just A Summer Issue

My Furnace Won't Stay On!   |   How Long Should My HVAC Equipment Last?

Tricks To Stay Warm This Winter   |   Winterize Your HVAC System

Don't Close Those Vents!   |   Phew! Furnace Smells You Shouldn't Ignore

Leave Furnace Repair And Installs To Us   |   Preventative Maintenance Matters

4 Important Tasks Before You Use Your Furnace   |   Prepare Your Home For Fall And Winter

Caulk And Seal Like A Pro!   |   Dealing With Extreme Heat

Don't Neglect Your Furnace In The Summer!   |   Preventing And Dealing With Water Damage

Why You Should Test Your Air Quality   |   Smart HVAC Technology For Your Home

Keep Your Vents Clean And Stylish   |   Save Money With A Home Energy Audit

Why Is My AC System Blowing Warm Air?   |   Reduce Humidity To Stay Cool

Summer Energy-Saving Tips   |   Create An Allergy-Free Home

Is My Air Conditioner Low On Refrigerant?   |   4 Essential HVAC Safety Tips

16 Easy Spring Tasks To Save You Money   |   My Air Conditioner Is So Noisy!

5 Ways To Stay Cool This Summer   |   4 Common AC Problems

Spring Cleaning Checklist   |   The Importance Of A Clean AC Condenser Coil

Improve Your Home's Indoor Air Quality   |   Prepare Your Cooling System For Summer

Why Is This Room Warmer Than The Rest Of My Home?   |   Retire Your Old Thermostat

About Our Blog

Containing the most current and easy-to-read expert information in the world of heating and cooling, our blog is intended to help you stay "in the know" and make the best decisions when it comes to keeping your home and family comfortable and your HVAC system trouble-free. That's how neighbors should treat neighbors!™

Recent Posts

Why Choose Hey Neighbor?

We're committed to providing fast friendly emergency service 24 hours a day 7 days a week for residential heating and air conditioning systems in Wooster, Millersburg and the surrounding areas.

Our 24-hour emergency on-call service means you'll never have to go through another cold winter night or a hot, humid summer day. We service residents of Wayne and Holmes counties with no after-hours or overtime fees, so you'll never have to worry about paying extra because your furnace or air conditioner decided it wanted to quit on the weekend or a holiday!

Our service trucks are ready for your emergency after-hours service call with over 5000 stocked parts so you don't have to wait for us to chase down the parts you need.

Expert Local Service

Furnace and AC Repair

Furnace and AC Repair

Fast and done right the first time

We'll keep your Wayne County furnace running smoothly, and we service gas and electric heaters, heat pumps, ductless mini-split systems and more. Our local, licensed, friendly HVAC technicians drive fully-stocked service vans so when we troubleshoot your Holmes County HVAC system and find a faulty part, we can replace it right then! Whatever you need in the area of heating and cooling repair in Wooster, Millersburg, and the surrounding areas, we've got you covered!

Installs and Upgrades

Installs and Upgrades

The right system for your home

Whether you're a homeowner in Rittman who's in the market for a new, high-efficiency furnace, a mobile home owner in Shreve who's tired of baking in the summertime or you're a property manager in Dalton looking to replace old, temperamental air conditioning systems in apartments with new reliable units, our experience enables us to quickly and accurately assess your HVAC needs. You'll get the new furnace install and central air conditioning upgrade that's right for you.

System Maintenance

System Maintenance

Protect your investment

While we don't mind visiting your home for a dead-of-winter breakdown (it's what we do), we want to help you avoid that unfortunate situation altogether. That's why we offer affordable Wayne and Holmes County seasonal HVAC maintenance to reduce the future need for heating and cooling repairs. Our thorough inspections catch little problems before they become big ones. An annual HVAC tune-up by one of our expert techs saves you money, time, and stress!

Latest HVAC Articles

Are you eggs-periencing trouble with your HVAC system? Hey Neighbor can fix that!
Mar 28, 2024

Egg-cellent HVAC Best Practices

As Easter approaches, many of us are eagerly preparing for egg hunts, family gatherings, and delicious feasts. But amidst all the excitement, it's essential not to overlook the comfort... more...

Don't neglect your HVAC system investment - enroll in our Preventative Maintenance Program today and protect it year-round!
Feb 26, 2024

Preventative Maintenance Is A Savvy Move

Are you ready to keep your cool (or stay cozy warm) all year round? Well, listen up, because we've got some insider tips on how to make that happen hassle-free. Let's talk about HVAC... more...

Our comfort experts explain why these therapeutic devices can greatly enhance your family's health and well-being.
Jan 29, 2024

Is A Whole-House Humidifier Right For Me?

If you're wondering whether or not a whole-house humidifier is the missing piece to your cozy home puzzle, you've come to the right place. Today, let's embark on a journey to explore... more...

Schedule service

Communities We Serve

Wayne County, Ohio ~ Apple Creek, Ohio 44606 ~ Armstrong, Ohio 44214 ~ Burbank, Ohio 44214 ~ Burton City, Ohio 44667 ~ Congress, Ohio 44287 ~ Craigton, Ohio 44676 ~ Creston, Ohio 44217 ~ Dalton, Ohio 44618 ~ Doylestown, Ohio 44230 ~ Easton, Ohio 44270 ~ Fredericksburg, Ohio 44627 ~ Funk, Ohio 44691 ~ Kidron, Ohio 44636 ~ Lattasburg, Ohio 44287 ~ Marshallville, Ohio 44645 ~ Mount Eaton, Ohio 44569 ~ Orrville, Ohio 44667 ~ Pleasant Home, Ohio 44287 ~ Riceland, Ohio 44667 ~ Rittman, Ohio 44270 ~ Shreve, Ohio 44676 ~ Smithville, Ohio 44677 ~ Sterling, Ohio 44276 ~ West Salem, Ohio 44287 ~ Wooster, Ohio 44691 ~ and more!

Holmes County, Ohio ~ Baltic, Ohio 43804 ~ Becks Mills, Ohio 44654 ~ Berlin, Ohio 44654 ~ Charm, Ohio 44654 ~ Farmerstown, Ohio 43804 ~ Glenmont, Ohio 44628 ~ Holmesville, Ohio 44633 ~ Killbuck, Ohio 44637 ~ Lakeville, Ohio 44638 ~ Millersburg, Ohio 44654 ~ Mount Hope, Ohio 44627 ~ Nashville, Ohio 44611 ~ Saltillo, Ohio 44654 ~ Stillwell, Ohio 44637 ~ Trail, Ohio 44624 ~ Walnut Creek, Ohio 44681 ~ Winesburg, Ohio 44624 ~ and more!