Troubleshooting Tips Before Calling for Heating Repair

When the temperatures start to drop in Waldorf, MD, and your heating system acts up, it's tempting to panic. But before you call Winters Heating & Cooling for a heating repair, there are a few simple steps you can take to possibly solve the issue on your own—and save some money. As a trusted HVAC provider serving Southern Maryland since 1948, we want to help you stay warm without the stress. This quick troubleshooting guide can help you figure out if your heating issue is a quick fix or something that needs a professional's touch.

Is Your Thermostat the Problem? Start Here!

Sometimes the fix is as easy as a setting. Your thermostat is the brain of your heating system, so it’s the best place to start when things don’t feel right.

Quick Thermostat Checks:

• Make sure it’s set to "Heat" and not “Cool” or “Off.”
• Check that the temperature setting is above the current room temp.
• Replace old or dead batteries if it’s not hardwired.
• Make sure it’s clean and free from dust or debris.

A thermostat that’s not working properly can make it seem like the whole system is broken when it’s really just a communication issue.

Check Your Air Filter—It’s a Big Deal

Clogged filters can block airflow and make your furnace work harder, or even shut it down. A dirty filter is one of the most common causes of heating issues we see.

What to Look for:

• Pull out the filter and hold it up to a light. If you can't see through it, it's time to change it.
• Make it a habit to replace or clean your filter every 1 to 3 months.

Clean filters help your system run more efficiently and prevent avoidable heating repair calls.

Pilot Light or Ignition Trouble? Here’s What You Can Check

If you have an older gas furnace, it might have a pilot light. Newer models use an electronic ignition system. Either one can cause heating issues.

For Systems With a Pilot Light:

• Check to see if the flame is lit. If not, follow your unit's instructions to relight it.
• If the pilot won’t stay lit, there may be a thermocouple issue or something more serious.

For Electronic Ignitions:

• Listen for clicking or buzzing sounds when your furnace starts up.
• If there’s silence, the ignitor may need to be replaced.

Handling gas-related issues can be dangerous, so if you’re unsure, it’s best to call a professional.

Check the Circuit Breaker or Power Switch

It might sound obvious, but a tripped breaker or an accidentally flipped switch can stop your heating system in its tracks.

• Go to your breaker panel and make sure the HVAC switch is in the "On" position.

• Check the power switch on or near your furnace—it may look like a light switch.

A reset could be all you need to get the heat flowing again.

When It’s Time to Call Winters Heating & Cooling

If you've walked through these basic steps and your home is still cold, it’s time to call in the experts. Don’t try to troubleshoot complex issues like strange smells, loud banging noises, or repeated system shut-offs. These could signal serious mechanical or safety problems.

Stay Warm and Stress-Free With Expert Heating Repair

If your system still isn't working after these steps, give Winters Heating & Cooling a call at (301) 475-5611. Our team is ready 24/7 to handle your heating repair needs in Waldorf, MD, with professionalism, honesty, and the trusted service our community has counted on for decades.