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Heating and Air Conditioning | Knoxville | Heating and Air Conditioning in Knoxville

Restoring Warmth and Comfort: A Knoxville Home’s Journey from No-Heat to a High-Efficiency Upgrade

When a homeowner in Knoxville discovered that the furnace was running but not delivering heat to the top two levels of their home, they turned to HEP company for help. A thorough inspection by an HEP technician revealed that all four thermostats were calling for heat—yet the system was still blowing cold air. Here’s how the team pinpointed the problem, presented options, and ultimately transformed the home’s comfort with a new, high-efficiency furnace.

Initial Diagnosis – Pinpointing the No-Heat Problem

First, the HEP technician needed to confirm that the system was powered and running safely. Using a professional clamp meter, they measured the electrical current to ensure the blower motor and control circuits were operating normally. This step ruled out simple electrical faults and showed that the issue lay deeper within the control board.

Fieldpiece SC260 clamp meter in use

A digital clamp meter ensuring the system’s electrical components are operating within safe parameters.

Understanding Zone Controls – Why Your Thermostats May Not Be the Culprit

In many modern homes, a zone control panel manages separate areas (or “zones”) so you can heat and cool different floors independently. In this case, the zone control panel was mistakenly sending a call for cooling when heat was requested—freezing the system rather than warming the rooms.

Honeywell Home HZ432 zone control panel

A multi-zone control panel directing signals from each thermostat to the furnace.

Replacing the zone board quickly fixed the mixed signals, restoring proper communication between thermostats and the furnace.

When a Repair Isn’t Enough – Upgrading to a New Furnace

Although the zone board repair brought temporary relief, the HEP technician and homeowner discussed the long-term health of a 5-year-old furnace nearing its service life. After exploring options, the homeowner chose a new high-efficiency furnace that promises better performance, lower energy use, and reliable warmth for years to come.

Rheem Classic 90 Plus gas furnace installation

A newly installed high-efficiency gas furnace providing consistent heat throughout the home.

Fine-Tuning Airflow – Installing Zone Dampers for Comfort Control

To make the most of the new furnace, the team added motorized zone dampers. These small devices open and close ducts to balance airflow, preventing hot or cold spots and giving the homeowner precise control over each level.

Honeywell HVAC damper actuator on ductwork

A motorized damper actuator directing airflow for customized comfort in each zone.

The Final Touch – Smart Thermostat and Safety Features

A modern, programmable thermostat helps the homeowner schedule heating times around daily routines, maximizing energy savings without sacrificing comfort. For added peace of mind, a condensate drain safety switch was installed to prevent water overflow and potential damage.

Honeywell Home ProSeries digital thermostat

A smart thermostat allowing easy scheduling and temperature control from anywhere.

Condensate drain safety switch on HVAC unit

A float-activated safety switch that shuts down the system if the drain line ever clogs.

Tips for Homeowners from HEP Technicians

• Schedule prompt diagnostics when you notice a loss of heat—early detection can save time and money.
• Ask about zone control functionality if different areas of your home aren’t heating evenly.
• Consider a high-efficiency furnace replacement when your system is over 5 years old or experiencing repeated issues.
• Upgrade to motorized dampers and a smart thermostat to improve comfort and lower energy bills.
• Don’t overlook safety devices like condensate switches—they protect your home from hidden water damage.

With professional expertise and a commitment to customer satisfaction, HEP company helped this Knoxville homeowner move from chilly evenings to cozy nights—backed by reliable equipment, smart controls, and the peace of mind that comes from quality service.

Published on February 18, 2026

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