What Are the Properties of a Bad Heating Element?

If your heating element malfunctions, it can lower the heating capability of your system and compromise the comfort of your home. This is definitely not something you want happening to you during a cold winter night.

However, it is sometimes a bit difficult to determine if your heating element is going bad. It is a wise choice to be familiar with all the signs, so you can react before things get out of hand.

It doesn’t hurt to know more about the underlying reasons that cause the heating element to burn out, so you can prevent it from happening. But, let’s first take a look at all the signs that indicate you need to contact reputable experts in air conditioning and heating repair in Temecula.

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How do I know if my heating element is bad in my furnace?

A heating element, also frequently referred to as heat strips, is a component of your furnace that helps heat the air in case your heat pump is unable to convert the air from the outside into warm air quickly enough.

Heating elements are vital components of furnaces because heat pumps rely on taking the heat from the outside air, increasing its temperature, and distributing it further through the system and into your home.

The problem occurs when cold temperatures make it more difficult for the heat pump to operate on its own, requiring additional heat sources to help with the process. This is why a heating element is an essential component of a furnace.

However, the heating element in the furnace can malfunction and go completely dead. The easiest way to check this is to turn the heating element on and inspect the temperature of the air coming out of your heating system.

If the air is insufficiently heated, very close to, or at room temperature, there is probably something wrong with the heating element. However, you should refrain from doing this procedure on your own due to danger of electric shock. Always consult a qualified Riverside and San Diego County HVAC technician before deciding to diagnose a problem with your furnace alone.

What causes a heating element to burn out?

The heating element is a gentle part of your furnace in Temecula or the surrounding areas, and there are several things that can make it burn out. There are preventative actions you can take to prevent it from happening. However, some underlying causes request assistance from an experienced HVAC technician.

Here are the most common causes of a burned-out heating element in your furnace:

  • Faulty Wiring: Problems with the wiring within your furnace can cause inadequate amounts of electrical power to your heating element, causing it to burn out in.
  • Corrosion: Corrosion on a heating element is not a serious problem at first, but can later cause small cracks which cause burn out.
  • System Strain: Setting your thermostat too high will make your furnace work excessively to achieve or maintain the desired temperature, causing the unit to prematurely burn out.
  • Wear and Tear: Finally, the heating element can burn out simply because of the usual wear and tear these components endure during their standard operating cycles.

How much does a heating element cost for a furnace?

The price of a furnace heating element can significantly vary. There are different factors contributing to the varying prices for a heating element, including the size of the furnace, the brand of the furnace, and the type of heating element required for that furnace.

Prices usually start at $100, but they can also cost $300 and more, depending on the aforementioned factors. It’s always best to consult a professional HVAC technician to acquire the adequate heating element for your furnace and replace it.

Top-Rated air conditioning & heating repair company in Temecula?

A bad or burnt-out heating element can cause difficulties in achieving proper living comfort in your home during the cold winter months. Contact experienced HVAC technicians as soon as you notice your furnace is beginning to act up or run inefficiently. Luckily, you can always turn to Action Air Conditioning & Heating for any advice and emergency assistance with your furnace in San Diego County or the surrounding areas. We will be quick to schedule a visit and come resolve your HVAC issues, whether you live near the Santa Rosa Plateau, Double Peak Trail, or Carlsbad Village.

What’s more, we can also help you with much more than just a faulty heating element. We’re here if you’re unsure whether you can use your air conditioner during winter if you’re curious about the best time for purchasing an air conditioning unit, as well as to help you determine what kind of maintenance your furnace requires. Whatever type of question you have, or HVAC problem you need resolved, our NATE-certified technicians are here to help out. Call (760) 280-9241 and Action Air Conditioning, Heating & Solar will answer!

Reviews

“Complete HVAC system install was done – very professional and clean workmanship. The techs were very communicative during the whole process. I am very pleased with the results . Thanks Action and your team for doing it right the 1st time.”

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