Common problems with your heating system

Whether you live on the sunny West Coast or in the heart of the Midwest, you're sure to have nights during the colder months where you'll be dependent on the mercy of your heating system. And because it seems that so often appliances and systems break at the most inconvenient times, it's important to have a plan for when the unexpected happens.

Without a home protection plan that you can depend on, you may be left dealing with one of these four common problems on your own:

1. Heat won't come on
When your house feels like the Arctic and it just isn't getting any warmer, you definitely have a problem. Before you call a technician, make sure the thermostat is on and in the heating position, and check that the vents aren't blocked.

2. Carbon monoxide detector goes off
If you have a carbon monoxide leak in your house, you definitely want the detector to go off. But if you don't, the sound will become obnoxious in seconds. A professional should be called to determine if there's a problem or if it's a false alarm.

3. Water is pooling
Some heating systems rely on water, which can result in pooling on the ground if it starts to leak. According to Popular Mechanics, the problem could be the evaporator coil's drain pan is overflowing, likely because of a blockage somewhere along the drain line.

4. Pilot light problems
If the pilot light in your furnace is malfunctioning, the system won't work properly. This will make it hard to keep your home warm. One possible cause could be that the tip is corroded, the San Francisco Chronicle reported.

The information in this article is intended to provide guidance on the proper maintenance and care of systems and appliances in the home. Not all of the topics mentioned are covered by our home warranty or maintenance plans. Please review your home warranty contract carefully to understand your coverage.