Most heaters don’t quit without warning.
They signal first.
The problem is that many Central Texas homeowners don’t realize what those warning signs look like. Especially in places like Kyle and the surrounding areas, where winters are usually mild and heaters don’t run as hard as they do up north.
When a cold snap hits in late January, that changes fast.
Suddenly your system is running longer, cycling more often, and being pushed harder than it has all season. If something is already worn down, that cold front can be the breaking point.
Here’s how to spot the signs before your heater fails completely.
1. Your Heater Is Blowing Cool or Lukewarm Air
If your vents are pushing air that feels cool or barely warm, that’s not normal.
In many cases, this points to:
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A failing heating element
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Ignition or burner issues
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Heat pump problems during colder nights
The system may still be running, but it’s no longer producing enough heat to keep your home comfortable. This often shows up right before a total breakdown.
2. The System Is Turning On and Off Constantly
Short cycling is one of the biggest red flags.
Your heater turns on.
Shuts off.
Turns on again.
Over and over.
This puts extra stress on components and usually means something is wrong with airflow, sensors, or internal parts. During a Texas cold snap, short cycling can quickly turn into a full system shutdown.
3. Your Home Heats Unevenly
If one room feels warm while another feels cold, your system is struggling to distribute heat properly.
Common causes include:
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Ductwork issues
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Failing blower motors
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Airflow restrictions
Uneven heating often gets worse during colder nights when your heater can’t keep up with demand.
4. You Hear New or Unusual Noises
Heaters aren’t silent, but they shouldn’t sound angry either.
Warning sounds include:
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Grinding
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Banging
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Rattling
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Clicking that wasn’t there before
These noises usually mean parts are loose, worn, or close to failure. Ignoring them can turn a small repair into a much bigger one.
5. Your Energy Bills Spike Suddenly
If your January heating bill jumps unexpectedly, your system is likely working harder than it should.
That usually means:
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Reduced efficiency
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Internal wear
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Failing components
When a heater loses efficiency, it consumes more energy to produce less heat. That’s often a sign it’s nearing the end of its useful life.
6. The Heater Struggles During Overnight Cold
Many Texas heaters fail overnight.
Why?
Because nighttime temperatures put the most strain on the system. If your heater works during the day but struggles to maintain heat at night, it’s a clear sign the system is operating on borrowed time.
Why Cold Snaps Are So Hard on Texas Heating Systems
Most heating systems in Central Texas are designed for short cold periods, not extended freezes.
When a strong cold front hits:
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Systems run longer than usual
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Parts heat up and cool down repeatedly
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Weak components finally give out
That’s why so many heater breakdowns happen in January and February.
When to Call a Professional
If you’re noticing any of these signs, don’t wait for a complete failure.
Calling for service early can:
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Prevent emergency breakdowns
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Reduce repair costs
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Restore safe, reliable heat
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Protect your system during the rest of winter
A quick inspection now can save you from a no-heat emergency later.
Need Help with Your Heater?
If your heater isn’t keeping up with the cold, Garner Heating & Air Conditioning is here to help.
We serve Kyle and surrounding areas and specialize in diagnosing heating issues before they turn into full system failures.
Call today to schedule your heating service and stay warm through the rest of winter.
