Banish the cold: how to repair an electric fan heater that won’t heat

Electric fan heaters are a convenient and efficient way to warm up a room quickly. However, like any other electrical appliance, they can occasionally develop problems. If your electric fan heater is not working properly, don’t despair! In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the most common problems and provide step-by-step instructions on how to fix them.

Identifying the Problem

Before you start troubleshooting, it’s important to identify the specific problem with your electric fan heater. Here are some common symptoms to look for:

• Heater not turning on: This could be caused by a faulty power cord, switch, or thermostat.
• Heater not heating: This could be due to a blown fuse, clogged filter, or broken heating element.
• Heater making noise: This could indicate a loose fan blade or a problem with the motor.
• Heater overheating: This could be caused by a blocked air vent or a faulty thermostat.

Troubleshooting and Repair

1. Check the Power Supply

The first step is to check the power supply. Make sure that the heater is plugged into a working outlet and that the power cord is not damaged. If the power cord is damaged, it should be replaced immediately.

2. Reset the Thermostat

If the heater is not heating, the thermostat may have tripped. Reset the thermostat by turning the dial to the lowest setting and then back to the desired temperature.

3. Clean the Filter

A clogged filter can restrict airflow, preventing the heater from heating properly. Remove the filter and clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

4. Check the Fuse

If the heater is not turning on, the fuse may have blown. Check the fuse box and replace the blown fuse with a new one of the same amperage.

5. Inspect the Heating Element

If the heater is not heating, the heating element may have burned out. Disconnect the heater from the power supply and remove the heating element. Inspect it for any visible damage or breaks. If the heating element is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

6. Check the Fan Motor

If the heater is making noise, the fan motor may be faulty. Disconnect the heater from the power supply and remove the fan motor. Inspect it for any damage or obstructions. If the fan motor is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

7. Check for Overheating

If the heater is overheating, the air vent may be blocked. Check the air vent and remove any obstructions. If the heater is still overheating, the thermostat may be faulty and will need to be replaced.

Safety Precautions

When troubleshooting and repairing an electric fan heater, always follow these safety precautions:

• Always unplug the heater before performing any maintenance or repairs.
• Allow the heater to cool down completely before touching it.
• Never attempt to repair the heater if you are not qualified.
• If the heater is damaged or cannot be repaired, discard it properly.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

1. Why is my electric fan heater not turning on?

• Check the power supply, reset the thermostat, and check the fuse.

2. Why is my electric fan heater not heating?

• Clean the filter, check the heating element, and inspect the fan motor.

3. Why is my electric fan heater making noise?

• Check the fan blade for any loose screws or obstructions, and inspect the fan motor for any damage.

4. Why is my electric fan heater overheating?

• Check the air vent for any obstructions, and inspect the thermostat for any faults.

5. Can I repair an electric fan heater myself?

• Yes, you can perform basic troubleshooting and repairs yourself, but always follow safety precautions and consult a qualified electrician if necessary.