TROUBLESHOOTING

Heating systems are one of those things in life that we would prefer not to spend a great deal of time
thinking about. Let’s face it, all that the best systems should need are basic maintenance and a steady
supply of fuel. But like it or not, from time to time, systems fail and it’s usually pretty evident when they do
fail: you start to hear strange noises from the basement or worse yet your home goes cold and you know
the heat isn’t working.

Generally speaking, when you’re not getting any heat, call A. W. PETERS, INC. at 603-924-3388 or
603-924-3953 to remedy the problem.

As a homeowner, the best actions that you can take are preventative. You can:
• schedule a regular cleaning,
• insulate your home,
• make sure that your oil heat tank doesn’t run empty, etc.
• use the web to educate yourself, and
• perform some basic tasks.
The key is knowing what makes sense to try to fix yourself and when it’s time to call in a professional. We’ve gathered some basic information to help.

Basic Troubleshooting. Sometimes a fix is simple. Try these six steps:
1) Make sure your thermostat is set above room temperature.
2) Make sure emergency switch is in the on position (it’s usually at the top of the stairs)
3) Make sure your oil burner switch is in the “ON” position.
4) Check all fuses and circuit breakers.
5) Check your tank to ensure it contains oil.
6) Press the reset button on your oilheat system, which is typically located on the burner or chimney pipe.
PRESS THE BUTTON ONLY ONCE!

If these steps don’t work, call A. W. PETERS, INC. at 603-924-3388 or 603-924-3953 anytime.

Ice Inside Your Pipes.
If your heat’s out and there’s no water pressure when you turn on faucet, you probably have ice clogging
one of your pipes. When water freezes it expands about four percent may cause your pipes to crack. If
there’s a leak, water will flood your house and basement soon after your heat gets turned on.

Try this quick fix:

• Turn on faucet nearest to the pipe with the suspected ice block.
• Follow the pipe to where it meets an outside wall.
• Find the part of the pipe that is exposed to cold air.
• Use a hairdryer to melt the ice. Move it up and down and about a foot above where you suspect the ice is clogging the pipe.
• Call a plumber to inspect the pipes.

Insulate your hot water pipes in unheated areas. Also use an insulating blanket on your water heater.