When Michigan’s winter cold settles in, the last thing you want is a heating system that stops working. From furnaces to boilers to heat pumps, keeping your home warm and comfortable is essential for both safety and peace of mind. At Vander Hyde Services, we’ve been helping Grand Rapids homeowners with reliable heating services since 1989. If your heater isn’t performing as it should, here are some common problems you might face—and when it’s time to call the professionals.

1. Heater Won’t Turn On

If your system doesn’t start at all, the issue could be as simple as a tripped circuit breaker or a faulty thermostat. Check your thermostat settings and breaker box first. If everything looks normal and your heater still won’t turn on, it’s time to schedule professional service.

2. Uneven Heating

Do some rooms feel cozy while others stay chilly? Uneven heating can result from dirty filters, blocked vents, or ductwork leaks. Replacing filters and ensuring vents are clear can help, but if the issue persists, a professional inspection is needed.

3. Strange Noises

Clanking, banging, or squealing noises often point to loose components, worn belts, or airflow problems. Ignoring these sounds can lead to bigger, more costly breakdowns. Early attention from an HVAC technician will keep your system running smoothly.

4. Short Cycling

If your furnace keeps turning on and off quickly, this “short cycling” may be caused by a clogged filter, improper sizing, or a malfunctioning thermostat. Short cycling wastes energy and increases wear on your system, so don’t wait too long before calling a pro.

5. Cold Air from Vents

Nothing is worse than your heater blowing cold air in the middle of winter. This issue could be related to the pilot light, heat exchanger, or even duct leaks. While you can check for simple issues, most of the time this problem requires expert repair.

6. Higher Energy Bills

If your heating bills are rising but your usage hasn’t changed, your system may be losing efficiency. A dirty filter, lack of maintenance, or failing parts could all be the culprit. Routine tune-ups help catch these issues early and keep your system efficient.

Keep Your Home Warm All Winter Long

Troubleshooting simple problems can help in some cases, but when it comes to complex heating issues, it’s always best to call the professionals. At Vander Hyde Services, our licensed HVAC technicians are here 24/7 to provide furnace, boiler, and heat pump repairs in Grand Rapids and across West Michigan. Don’t let a minor problem turn into a major emergency—call (616) 319-2125 today and keep your home safe and warm all season.