Warming tips for cozy home heating
Guide

No more chilly nights! the ultimate guide to repairing electric heaters

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps on how to fix electric heater in house, saving you time, money, and the discomfort of a cold home.
  • If the heater is tripping the circuit breaker, check for overloaded circuits or loose connections.
  • Store the heater in a dry place during the off-season.

Electric heaters are a convenient and efficient way to warm up your home during the colder months. However, like any appliance, they can occasionally malfunction. If your electric heater is not working properly, don’t despair! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the steps on how to fix electric heater in house, saving you time, money, and the discomfort of a cold home.

Troubleshooting Common Electric Heater Issues

Before attempting any repairs, it’s essential to identify the source of the problem. Here are some common issues you may encounter with electric heaters:

  • Heater not turning on: Check the power cord, thermostat, and circuit breaker.
  • Heater not heating: Inspect the heating element, fan, and temperature sensor.
  • Heater making noise: Listen for rattling, buzzing, or humming sounds to identify the source of the noise.
  • Heater blowing cold air: Ensure the thermostat is set correctly and the heater is not obstructed.
  • Heater tripping the circuit breaker: Check for loose connections, damaged cords, or overloaded circuits.

Step-by-Step Repair Guide

Once you have identified the issue, you can proceed with the necessary repairs. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you fix electric heater in house:

Safety First

Before starting any work, always unplug the heater and allow it to cool down completely. Wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from potential hazards.

Inspecting and Replacing the Power Cord

  • Check if the power cord is damaged, frayed, or loose.
  • Replace the power cord if it shows any signs of damage.

Checking the Thermostat

  • Ensure the thermostat is set to the desired temperature.
  • If the thermostat is faulty, it may need to be replaced.

Inspecting the Heating Element

  • Unplug the heater and remove the cover or casing.
  • Check the heating element for any breaks, burns, or cracks.
  • Replace the heating element if it is damaged.

Cleaning the Fan

  • Use a vacuum cleaner or compressed air to remove dust and debris from the fan blades.
  • Ensure the fan is rotating freely and not obstructed.

Inspecting the Temperature Sensor

  • Locate the temperature sensor on the heater.
  • Check if the sensor is loose or damaged.
  • Clean the sensor with a soft cloth or replace it if necessary.

Resetting the Circuit Breaker

  • If the heater is tripping the circuit breaker, check for overloaded circuits or loose connections.
  • Reset the circuit breaker and observe if the issue persists.

Advanced Repairs

If the above steps do not resolve the issue, you may need to perform more advanced repairs. These tasks should only be attempted by experienced individuals:

  • Replacing the Control Board: The control board manages the heater’s functions. If it fails, the heater may not operate correctly.
  • Fixing Loose Connections: Check all electrical connections for looseness or damage. Tighten or replace any loose connections.
  • Testing the Motor: If the heater is not blowing air, the motor may be faulty. Use a multimeter to test the motor’s continuity.

Tips for Maintaining Electric Heaters

To ensure your electric heater operates efficiently and lasts for years to come, follow these maintenance tips:

  • Clean the heater regularly to remove dust and debris.
  • Inspect the power cord and connections periodically for damage.
  • Set the thermostat to an appropriate temperature to avoid overheating.
  • Do not overload the circuit that the heater is connected to.
  • Store the heater in a dry place during the off-season.

What People Want to Know

Q: Why is my electric heater not heating?
A: Check the heating element, thermostat, and fan for any damage or malfunctions.

Q: What causes an electric heater to make noise?
A: Rattling or buzzing sounds can be caused by a loose fan or heating element. Humming sounds may indicate a faulty motor.

Q: How can I prevent my electric heater from tripping the circuit breaker?
A: Ensure the heater is not overloaded, check for loose connections, and avoid using extension cords with insufficient amperage.

Q: Is it safe to repair an electric heater myself?
A: Basic repairs can be attempted by experienced individuals. However, advanced repairs should be left to qualified technicians for safety reasons.

Q: How often should I clean my electric heater?
A: Clean the heater regularly, especially during periods of heavy use. Remove dust and debris to maintain optimal performance and prevent overheating.

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Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
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