Are you experiencing issues with your space heater? Then, you’ve come to the right place.
Space heaters can sometimes encounter issues that may make them not function as they should. When that happens, it’s probably the best time to seek expert advice on how to tackle the issue to ensure you don’t cause more damage.
In this post, we will cover various ways you can solve the issue of a space heater not working. First, you need to know that a space heater is quite delicate and requires caution when using it.
You also need to strive always to maintain the appliance in the best way possible. Check out below some of the common causes of space heaters not working and how to solve the problem.
Reasons Why your Space Heater is Not Working
Check Power Supply
The first thing you need to do when you notice that your space heater isn’t functioning as it should is to check the power supply. One of the most common causes of an electric heater not functioning properly is a blown a fuse. Therefore, first, go ahead and check the power supply to see if there are any issues.
If you find that it’s a blown a fuse or tripped, you need to consider replacing it or resetting the circuit breaker if necessary. Once you do that, the next step is to plug the appliance back in and then switch it on.
Check to see if the issue has been fixed. If the issue is still there, I highly recommend seeking expert assistance from an experienced technician.
Space Heater Won’t Turn On
If your space heater won’t turn on, you need to check the switch. Sometimes the switch might find it difficult to fit the socket, making it not give power to the unit. Therefore, this is also one of the first things you need to check. The second thing is to still check if the fuse is blown.
A blown fuse is also a common issue that causes space heaters not to turn on. To access the space heater’s switch, you have to use the provided manual. Make sure you correctly follow all the instructions outlined in the user manual.
Space Heater Keeps Shutting Off
If you have a space heater that keeps shutting, one of the root causes might be overheating. Space heater overheating is usually caused by a dirty air filter the restricts airflow into the heater. When the space heater lacks a consistent stream of cool air, the elements included in it tend to become too hot.
Therefore, when the heater becomes too hot, it causes an automatic shut-off to be initiated for safety purposes. This is why you’ll see your space heater shutting off most of the time.
Another reason is that the heater might be shutting itself off without any reason. If this is the case, it’s important to call for expert assistance to check on the issue before the heater is completely damaged.
Electric Heater Turns On and Off Repeatedly
If your electric heater keeps turning on and off repeatedly, one of the leading causes might be a blocked air filter. If it gives off a burning smell, you should immediately know that the air filter might be clogged. The air filter might be clogged by the buildup of dirt and dust, which prevents cool air from the room from flowing through the vents to the elements inside.
You can also easily notice that the elements inside the heater glow a brighter red or orange than usual since they aren’t cooling in the same manner. The excess heat can also trigger the built-in safety of the heater to shut off. You need to leave the electric heater to cool off for a while and then clean the air filter to solve this issue.
Space Heater Not Blowing Hot Air
If your space heater is not blowing hot air, the most common cause might be a blown circuit or resistor. It may also be that the circuit is broken. If this is the case, you need to open the case and start testing the circuit using a voltage regulator.
You should also check if the electrical path has any breakage. Also, note that the voltages may change between the circuits that are divided by the resistors. In case the circuit is broken, you should consider replacing it. You can do the replacement yourself or call a professional to handle the work.
Space Heater Blowing Cold Air
One of the main reasons your space heater might be blowing cold air is that the manual reset may have tripped. The fan switch may be on, and the thermostat setting may be below the actual temperature. Therefore, the fan may be dispersing this cold air right after the shutdown.
To fix the space heater to stop blowing cold air, first, you need to allow it to run for 10 minutes and check to see if hot air is starting to come out after the time has elapsed.
Also, check the temperature setting on the thermostat, and replace the batteries inside the thermostat. You should also adjust the fan switch by setting it to auto.
Space Heater Won’t Stay On
As mentioned earlier, if your space heater is having issues staying on, the main cause might be a blown fuse. You need to check the fuse to ensure it is functioning properly. If the space heater fuses or tripped, the best solution is to replace the fuse or reset the circuit breakers.
Once you’ve done that, you can plug the appliance back in and switch it on. Check to see if the heater will stay on for some time. If it does, then the issue has been fixed. But, if the heater still won’t stay on, it’s essential to seek professional assistance.
Space Heater Fan Not Working
If your space heater fan is not working, I would advise you to check the fan wiring. You need to ensure the wiring is connected to the motor, and if it’s not, the fan won’t function. You also need to check for obstructions.
If the space heater fan is obstructed, it won’t spin, which will eventually cause it not to work. Therefore, these are some of the main factors that may cause your space heater fan not to work properly.
Electric Heater Tripping Breaker
When the electric heater trips the circuit breaker, a warning signal requires you to look into the situation. Common reasons include the heater drawing too much current and overheating the circuit, having too many appliances on the circuit, or the circuit breaker may be old and weak.
Solutions include checking if you’re running the space heater on the highest level or if the circuit breaker needs a replacement for being weak or too old. You can reset the heater if it’s running on the highest level and use it at a lower level.
Space Heater Blowing Fuse
If your space heater is blowing a fuse, the issues might be that the circuits are overloaded, the wiring might have a problem, the fuse might have an issue, or there is a problem with the amperage limit. Therefore, you need to check if any of these issues might be the cause.
To solve the issue, avoid overloading the circuits, check if the wiring is done correctly, and ensure the amperage limit is adhered to. Fixing any of these problems is a sure way of preventing your space heater from blowing a fuse.
Space Heater Trips Power Strip
If you’re using a space heater in your home, you need to ensure it’s plugged directly into a wall outlet that can comfortably handle the wattage. It should also be the only item plugged into that wall outlet. This is because space heaters are notorious for overheating power strips and extension cords.
Therefore, plugging in a space heater directly into a wall outlet is an excellent solution to consider. However, avoid overloading where you plug the space heater because it may result in a fire outbreak once it overheats. You should also use the space heater when in the room and keep children and pets away from it.
Auto Safety Shut Off
You also need to consider the auto shut-off feature for your appliances. The auto shut-off device works with one touch of a button. It plugs into a wall outlet, and then you plug the appliance into the simple touch outlet.
The next step is to select your pre-set time, and it will automatically turn off the electricity powering the appliance. The main objective of the auto shut-off device is to improve safety, provide you with peace of mind, and convenience in your home.
Thermostat Problems
Some ways to know the thermostat has problems are if the HVAC keeps turning off, it has faulty readings, constant temperature shifts, or if the thermostat fails to respond to the changed settings.
If you see any of these issues and more, then it’s important to inspect the thermostat. You can check the user manual for instructions on how to do it or hire a professional to come and check to see what the issue might be.
Conclusion
There are plenty of space heater problems, and the best way is to follow the right tips and advice to ensure you fix them appropriately. You can also hire a professional technician to come and assist you in fixing any issues you’re encountering with your space heater to be on the safe side.
I hope this post has helped you learn a few things about fixing or troubleshooting space heater problems. If you have any questions or feedback regarding our post, feel free to reach out via email, and I’ll be happy to help.