What to Do When Your Heat Goes Out: Expert Advice for Lenoir City Homeowners

If you're looking for reliable Heating and Air Conditioning services in Lenoir City, our Heating and Air Conditioning in Lenoir City team is here to help.

It was a chilly morning in Lenoir City when a homeowner discovered their thermostat was completely blank and the furnace wouldn’t kick on. With temperatures dipping below comfort, they reached out for assistance. A HEP technician arrived promptly, performed a thorough inspection, and found a short in the low-voltage circuit that prevented the system from powering up. By replacing the worn electrical relay (contactor) and a cracked igniter, heat was restored quickly—leaving the homeowner warm and worry-free before the day’s cold really set in.

1. Check Your Thermostat and Power Supply

Before anything else, make sure your thermostat display is on and set to heat. If it’s blank:

Verify the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped.
Ensure the furnace switch (often near the unit) is in the “on” position.
Listen for a click or hum when you adjust the thermostat.

A quick glance at your breaker panel can save time and stress.

2. Trust Professional Diagnostics

Modern HVAC systems rely on delicate electrical components. Our HEP technician uses specialized tools—like a digital multimeter—to confirm voltage and continuity, pinpointing where the power is failing.

Tip: Attempting DIY electrical checks without proper training can lead to further damage or risk of shock. Always call a qualified professional.

3. Replace Wear-and-Tear Parts Before They Cause a Breakdown

Components like relays (contactors) and igniters gradually wear out. When they fail, your system can go completely dark:

Relays act as heavy-duty switches, sending power to motors and burners.
Igniters create the spark or heat needed to light the gas furnace.

By swapping out these parts as soon as warning signs appear—like clicking sounds or delayed start-up—you prevent sudden no-heat emergencies.

4. Keep Your Coils Clean for Best Performance

Dusty or blocked coils make your system work harder, reducing efficiency and increasing wear on components. Regular cleaning supports smoother airflow and helps parts last longer.

Tip for Homeowners: Gently vacuum visible dust off coils or schedule seasonal tune-ups to let technicians handle the deep clean.

5. Schedule Annual Maintenance

Preventive care is the key to uninterrupted comfort. A yearly service visit can include:

Safety checks on electrical connections
Inspection and calibration of relays, igniters, and sensors
Cleaning of coils, filters, and blowers

By catching small issues early, you avoid bigger repairs and enjoy consistent performance.

Staying warm through a Lenoir City winter doesn’t have to be stressful. Following these tips and relying on skilled HEP technicians helps keep your heating system ready—no matter how cold it gets outside.