How Do You Diagnose A Bad Heating Element?

The heating element in your furnace is responsible for generating the heat that warms your home. If the heat strip has issues, your furnace will not be able to generate heat.

Signs That Indicate Something Is Wrong With The Heating Element

• Inefficient Heating: If it is taking longer than usual for your furnace to heat up, or if the furnace doesn't seem to be generating as much heat as it used to, the heating element may be going bad.
• Pilot Flame Color: The pilot light is the small flame that ignites the burner in your furnace. If the color of the pilot light changes from blue to yellow, it could be a sign that the heating element is not working correctly.
• Troublesome Noises: If you hear crackling, popping, or sizzling noises from your furnace, it indicates the damaged heating element.
• Issues with Humidity Control: If you notice that the air in your home is not as moist as it used to be, or if there are visible signs of condensation on walls or windows, there might be a problem with the heating element.

Simple Steps To Diagnose A Bad Heating Element

• Checking the Pilot light: If the pilot light is out or flickering, it indicates something wrong with the heating element.
• Checking for Power: Make sure that the furnace is plugged in and that there is power going to it. If the furnace does not turn on at all, the heating element may be the problem.
• Inspecting the Element: Visually inspect the element for any signs of damage. If it is cracked or damaged, it will need a replacement.
• Inspect the Outside Of the Furnace. If the area around the heater feels warm, it is a sign that the element is working. However, if the area around the furnace feels cool, it could be a sign that the element is not working correctly.

If you suspect that the heating element in your furnace has issues, it is best to call a professional for furnace repair in San Luis Obispo, CA, and surrounding areas. A qualified technician will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend a course of action.

Tools Used For Inspecting The Heating Element

• Multimeter: A multimeter is an electrical testing tool for testing continuity. Continuity means that there is a complete path for electricity to flow. If there is no continuity, this implies there is a break in the circuit and the electricity cannot flow.
• Ohmmeter: An ohmmeter is another type of electrical testing tool. It measures resistance, which can help to determine if the heating element is functioning properly.
• Voltmeter: A voltmeter is an electrical testing tool that measures voltage. This can be used to test for power going to the furnace.
• Infrared Thermometer: An infrared thermometer can be used to measure the temperature of the heating element. It can help to determine if the element is generating enough heat.

Pacific Heating & Sheet Metal has been servicing Morro Bay and surrounding areas for over 25 years. We are the leading service providers in the field. So, call us for heating repair in San Luis Obispo, CA.