Featured image for post: My Central Heat isn’t Working, but the AC is… What Gives?

My Central Heat isn’t Working, but the AC is… What Gives?

Updated: January 29, 2023

Most homeowners in Arizona appreciate the importance of having their HVAC systems working perfectly. Sadly, at some point, you may realize that your AC is working, but the central heat is not. You need to know that this problem is not unique to you. An experienced HVAC contractor can fix this problem but before contacting one of these repair guys, let us first look at the common causes of this issue, shall we?

4 Reasons Why Your Central Heat is Not Working

A Faulty Thermostat

A faulty thermostat_Howard Air
Photo By Lopolo on Shutterstock

You need to start by checking if your thermostat is powered and working properly. Try turning on the thermostat and adjusting the temperature so that your HVAC is turned on. If it fails to come on, check the circuit breaker and ensure that the switch is functioning properly. If you find that it had tripped, turn it back on. This should fix the problem.

Clogged Filters

Clogged filters_Howard Air
Photo By 7th Son Studio on Shutterstock

The HVAC has coil air returns which help in filtering the air coming into your home. You need to clean these filters at least twice a year. However, depending on the usage of the system, you may need to clean the filters more than twice in a year.

Pilot Light or Igniter Problems

Pilot light or igniter problems_Howard Air
Photo By Pfeiffer on Shutterstock

If your central heating unit uses gas or propane, then it is essential to check if the pilot light or igniter is operational. If you discover that the heat does not come on even after you have reset the thermostat, you should then shut off the gas and verify if you have gas, then reset the igniter. If you have gas and the igniter still fails to light after the reset, you should consider replacing the igniter or calling an HVAC repair technician to help check your central heating unit.

Poorly Maintained Furnace

Poorly maintained furnace_Howard Air
Photo By Charles Knowles on Shutterstock

It is common to find that the central heating stops working abruptly. This is often caused by the furnace detecting some problems which can easily be corrected through regular maintenance by an HVAC repair technician. Routine furnace maintenance is necessary because it will ensure that:

  • Motors spin with no resistance
  • The furnace does not experience too much stress
  • The central air system stays in perfect condition and gives you service for longer.

Speak to the Professionals

At Phoenix-based Howard Air & Plumbing, we are committed to ensuring that our clients’ central heating works perfectly. Our experienced team of HVAC repair technicians has the expertise needed to handle a wide range of central heating-related problems. Contact Howard Air & Plumbing today and schedule a repair or routine maintenance.

Featured image: stefanolunardi on Shutterstock

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Andree Stahl profile picture
Andree Stahl
January 15, 2026
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Alejandro Farias was knowledgeable, pleasant, professional and very helpful. He thoroughly answered my questions and checked to ensure that our system was in good working order. He also showed videos of all of the components that were checked. There were no additional costs incurred today.
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M Stahl profile picture
M Stahl
January 15, 2026
Google star 1Google star 2Google star 3Google star 4Google star 5Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google.
Alejandro Farias was knowledgeable, pleasant, professional and very helpful. He thoroughly answered my questions and checked to ensure that our system was in good working order. He also showed videos of all of the components that were checked. There were no additional costs incurred today.
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James S profile picture
James S
January 15, 2026
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Raymond Gonzalez did an outstanding job with a HVAC check. He has a great personality, does a very thorough inspection and explains the results thru pics and in writing. A+ visit!
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kimberley viraco
January 15, 2026
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Howard Air reminded me I needed to do my tune up. They booked my appointment, sent me reminders and let me know when my tech was on his way. Hayden listened to my concerns, dis the tune up and provided sound advice. He even coordinated getting an appointment set up to have the attic insulation reviewed. Highly recommend using Howard Air!
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Shalimar Marshall profile picture
Shalimar Marshall
January 14, 2026
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Erik was able to fix our issue fast and efficiently! He was professional and friendly!
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TJ Leitzke
January 14, 2026
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Much was a great technician
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Cynthia Keith
January 14, 2026
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Howard Air technician, Collin Froreich arrived promptly to check our outdoor A/C unit. He was very polite and knowledgeable. Thank you, Collin for servicing our unit today.