Frequently asked questions
Why is one room colder than the rest of the house?
Common causes are a closed or disconnected duct, a long duct run with leaks, no return air path from the room, or exterior walls and windows losing heat faster than the room is supplied. A technician measures airflow at the register to tell which.
Should I close vents in unused rooms to save money?
Usually not. Closing more than a couple of registers raises duct pressure, can overheat a furnace and push air out of duct leaks instead. Zoning done properly with dampers is the better answer.
Why does my smart thermostat keep losing power?
Most smart thermostats need a continuous 24V common wire (C-wire). Without one, they steal power through the heating circuit, which can cause rebooting or short cycling. An adapter or a new wire fixes it.
How much heat do leaky ducts waste?
The U.S. Department of Energy estimates a typical duct system loses 20–30% of the air moving through it to leaks, holes and poor connections. Ducts in attics and crawlspaces lose the most in winter.
Do I need a heating tune-up every year?
Manufacturers and the DOE recommend annual maintenance for furnaces, boilers and heat pumps. Many warranties also require proof of maintenance.
My electric baseboard heater smells like burning. Is it safe?
A brief dusty smell at the start of the season is normal. A persistent burning or plastic smell is not. Turn the heater off at the breaker, keep curtains and furniture away, and have it inspected.
What's the best thermostat setting in winter?
The DOE notes you can save up to about 10% a year on heating by turning the thermostat back 7–10°F for 8 hours a day, such as overnight or while you're at work.
Do you serve rural areas?
Yes. The provider network covers all 50 states and DC, including rural ZIP codes. Response times are longer in remote areas during storms. Check your state on the coverage map.
Who actually comes out to my home?
An independent, licensed heating provider from our network. Hearthwise is a referral service and does not perform repairs. See how it works.
What if my heating problem is the furnace itself?
The provider handles furnaces too. For furnace-specific symptoms, the cost guide covers how repairs are priced.