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Heating System FAQs

Heating FAQ

Answering Your Common Questions

Why Isn’t My Heater Producing Any Heat?

There are a number of reasons why a heater might stop producing warm air. Unfortunately, it’s difficult to walk you through the entire diagnostic process with just a short explanation. We recommend calling our team and scheduling a service appointment right away and letting one of our highly-trained technicians figure out the issue and conduct a repair.

Should I Install a Gas or Electric Heater?

There really is no right or wrong answer to this question. For some people, gas is the far better option. Gas furnaces tend to be more reliable, longer-lasting, and a great choice for those who have a gas connection to their HVAC system. For those looking for the ultimate in energy efficiency, we recommend an electric heat pump. Heat pumps are also great for those who are environmentally-conscious, as they produce zero carbon emissions and burn no fossil fuels.

What Is a Heat Pump?

Heat pumps are sort of like an air conditioner, only with the process running in reverse. Heat pumps collect ambient thermal energy from the air outside and then carry it inside after compressing it to make it as warm as possible. Your furnace then pushes air from inside your home over an extremely warm coil containing this thermal energy, making it hot and then sending it back into your home. This process is remarkably energy-efficient and reliable in warmer-weather climates like ours.

My Heater Isn’t Running. What Can I Do?

Believe it or not, there are a couple common reasons that your heater might stop working that you can fix all on your own without any help. First, check the battery in your thermostat. Most thermostats that don’t have a “common” wire (or “C-wire”) require a battery to operate, and a dead battery will prevent your heater from turning. Second, check your air filter. If your filter is dirty, change it. Then give your heater a few minutes to rest and try turning it on again. The system may have simply overheated due to a lack of proper airflow. If neither of these fixes works, call for service right away. 

Have other questions? Check out our full FAQ list then give us a call at (760) 276-6690.

$39 Pre-season Furnace Maintenance Special Stay Warm and Worry-Free All Season Long!

Get your furnace ready for the colder months ahead with our $39 Pre-season Furnace Maintenance offer! At John Stevenson Plumbing, Heating & Air, we ensure your system runs smoothly, efficiently, and safely before the winter chill sets in. Our thorough maintenance service includes:

  • Comprehensive Furnace Evaluation & Safety Inspection
  • Standard Filter Check & Replacement (if necessary)
  • Thermostat Calibration
  • Safety Check for Carbon Monoxide & Gas Leaks
  • Cleaning of Critical Components
  • Efficiency & Performance Testing

Avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. Call John Stevenson Plumbing, Heating & Air today at (760) 276-6690.

Don’t Miss Out on These Savings!

  • 10% OFF All Military, First Responders & Seniors

    Call John Stevenson Plumbing, Heating & Air for details. Offer valid on service and repair. Receive 5% off all installation services.

  • $39 Pre-season Furnace Maintenance Special

    Get your furnace ready for the colder months ahead with our $39 Pre-season Furnace Maintenance offer! We ensure your system runs smoothly, efficiently, and safely before the winter chill sets in. Our thorough maintenance service includes:

How Often Should I Schedule a Tune-Up?

A tune-up is crucial if you want to keep your heater running reliably and efficiently, particularly when it hasn’t run for months at a time. We recommend having your heater tuned up and maintained professionally toward the middle of fall so that it is ready to go when you need it. However, if the weather takes a turn for the worse and you need your heater sooner, we still recommend calling and scheduling a tune-up for your system after the fact to protect it during future use.John Stevenson Plumbing truck and professionals

What Makes Us a Community Name?

Benefits of Working with Our Expert Team
  • Drug Tested & Background Checked Technicians
  • Upfront Pricing — You’ll Never Pay More Than You’re Quoted
  • Expert Advice From Professional, Licensed and Certified Technicians
  • We Stock Enough Parts in Our Trucks to Do 93% Of Repairs on the Spot
  • Flexible Scheduling - Ask About Same-Day or Emergency Service
  • 5 Star Service Guarantee Includes Service Tailored to Your Needs & Budget

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How do I know whether I need a repair or a replacement?
    The best way to determine if you need to repair or replace your current heating unit is to rely on the opinions of HVAC experts. Their experience will help them gauge whether repairs are possible and financially feasible. Our team of experts takes your best interests into consideration and offers heater replacement recommendations from there.
  • Why is it so important to hire a professional for heating installation?
    The professionals have the experience and right equipment to ensure your installation is performed correctly and safely. They also have experience working with a variety of different systems, so they won’t be fazed by your system or any issues that pop up. It’s also a good idea to have the professionals install your heater because they are constantly undergoing training to stay up to date with the latest technology and advancements. If you want to ensure your heating system is fully optimized for efficiency and peak performance, the professionals know just what to do to make it happen.
  • How long do HVAC systems typically last?
    According to the Department of Energy, HVAC systems typically last between 15 and 20 years. At John Stevenson Plumbing, Heating & Air, we recommend replacing your existing heating system at around 10-12 years for greater efficiency, lower utility and energy bills, and optimal performance.
  • Does John Stevenson Plumbing, Heating & Air offer financing options?
    We offer a variety of financing options, so our customers can achieve home comfort without breaking the bank. We can offer same as cash, as well as low interest options to suit the needs of any customer. Ask our Comfort Advisors about financing today!
  • Why Isn't My Home Getting Warm Enough?
    There are a few reasons why your furnace may not be warming your home efficiently or evenly. One of the most common reasons is a leak in the ducting. If there is a small hole or the ducting is improperly installed, it could leak out warm air and cause the air pressure to drop and the system then provides inadequate heating. Additionally, dirty filters will also cause a restriction in airflow making the system work harder. This can lead to a broken system, which is why regularly changing and/or cleaning your air filters is so important.

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You can rely on us for fast, effective services. As part of our 5 Star Service Guarantee, we promise to value your time, provide knowledgeable technicians, and dedicate ourselves to your full happiness with all of our services.

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  • Escondido

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