Oregon spring doesn’t like to make up its mind. One day the rain feels endless, and the next you’re wishing you had the air conditioner running. Before you flip the switch this year, it’s worth taking a few minutes to make sure your system is ready. Those minutes can prevent damage, keep your home cooler, and save you from a mid-season service call.

In this quick guide, you’ll learn when to turn your system on, what to check first, and the signs it’s time to call a technician.

At Roth, we help homeowners from Aurora and Canby to Bend and Portland get their systems running safely each spring. Here’s our guide to waking up your AC after winter, straight from technicians who do it every day.

When Should You Turn On Your AC

Wait until outdoor temperatures consistently stay above about 60 degrees before starting your air conditioner. If nights are still dipping near freezing, it’s better to hold off. Cold weather can cause coils to freeze or oil to thicken in the compressor, which adds strain.

Most Oregon homeowners find late April or early May is the sweet spot. Once those chilly nights fade, give your system a test run.

Steps for Turning On Your AC for the First Time After Winter

1. Inspect the Outdoor Unit

Look for leaves, branches, or nests that may have collected around the condenser. Gently clear debris and check for visible damage to fins or wiring. If you covered the unit during winter, remove the cover before starting.

2. Check and Replace Filters

Dirty filters block airflow and make your system work harder. Replace them if they look dusty or gray. Most homes do well changing filters every one to three months.

3. Set the Thermostat

Switch the thermostat to “cool” and raise the set temperature gradually. Make sure the fan is set to “auto” so it only runs when needed.

4. Give It a Dry Run

Turn on the fan only for a few minutes before starting the cooling mode. This clears out dust that collected in ducts during winter.

5. Start Cooling

Turn the thermostat down a few degrees and let the system run. Listen for odd noises outside and check that cool air is coming through the vents.

6. Check Airflow and Temperature

After ten minutes, the air from the vents should feel about fifteen to twenty degrees cooler than the air going into the return. Uneven or weak airflow could point to a clogged filter or blocked duct.

7. Watch for Early Warning Signs

If you notice warm air, unusual sounds, water around the unit, or a burnt smell, shut it off and call a professional. A small fix early can save you from a major repair later.

Common Issues You Might Encounter and What to Do

Even with proper care, systems can show a few hiccups after sitting all winter. Our technicians often find:

• Refrigerant leaks that developed during cold months
• Frozen coils caused by blocked airflow
• Failing capacitors or fan motors
• Clogged condensate drains
• Electrical shorts or tripped breakers
• Duct leaks that reduce cooling power

If your AC hums but doesn’t start, check the breaker first. If the breaker trips again or the unit clicks without running, call for service before trying again.

A Quick Story from the Field

Last spring, a homeowner in Aurora called after their AC wouldn’t cool the house. We found the outdoor unit packed with pine needles and a small bird’s nest under the fan grill. After a careful cleanup and quick test, the system ran perfectly. It’s a good reminder that Oregon’s wildlife likes warm spots too, so always take a look before you start the season.

Schedule Your Spring AC Check with Roth

If you’d rather skip the DIY steps, Roth can handle your AC startup for you. We’ll clean, inspect, and test your system so it’s ready for Oregon’s warmer days. It’s the simplest way to make sure your unit runs efficiently and lasts longer.

Call (503) 673-6394 today to schedule your spring AC tune-up in Aurora, Canby, Bend, or Portland.

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Living in Portland, we are used to rain. Wet sidewalks and puddles in the driveway are normal.

But water inside your house where it doesn’t belong?

That is different. A hidden leak can sneak up on you and cause more damage than a rainstorm ever could.

Water leaks in a can quietly ruin walls and floors, feed mold growth, and waste a surprising amount of water before you even notice. The good news is that most leaks leave clues if you know what to watch for.

In this blog, we will walk through six common signs of a water leak that Portland homeowners should look out for. If you catch these early, you can save yourself from bigger problems later.

And if you are not sure, Roth has been helping families in Portland and Central Oregon since 1976 with leak detection and plumbing repair, so you always have a local team to call.

1. A Water Bill That Doesn’t Make Sense

If your water bill suddenly spikes and nothing about your routine has changed, you may have a leak. Even a slow drip that never stops can add up fast.

An easy way to check is to look at your water meter.

Write down the number, then avoid using water for a couple of hours. No flushing toilets, no running faucets, no appliances. If the number goes up anyway, water is moving somewhere it shouldn’t.

2. Stains on Ceilings, Walls, or Floors

Brown or yellow spots on your ceiling or walls often mean water is leaking from above or behind the surface. On floors, water damage might show up as stains, warping, or soft spots.

With our damp Portland climate, it is easy to brush off marks like these as humidity. But stains that spread, sagging drywall, or bubbling wallpaper usually point to water getting into places it doesn’t belong.

3. Musty or Moldy Smells

Sometimes you can smell the problem before you can see it. A musty or earthy odor is a strong clue that moisture is present.

Mold and mildew thrive in damp conditions and can start growing within a couple of days. Pay attention to smells in basements, bathrooms, or laundry areas. If the odor lingers after cleaning, a hidden leak may be the cause.

4. Hearing Water When Everything Is Off

Have you ever sat in a quiet room and thought you heard water? If every faucet is shut off and no appliances are running, those sounds matter.

Dripping, hissing, or running water behind walls or under floors usually means a leak. Try turning off all water use in the house and listen closely. If the sound is still there, it is time to investigate.

5. Floors That Start to Change

Leaks don’t just show up in walls or ceilings. They can show up under your feet. Hardwood floors may warp or buckle, carpets may feel damp, and vinyl flooring can peel up around the edges.

These problems are often found near dishwashers, washing machines, or water heaters. Portland’s soft water doesn’t leave behind heavy deposits, but it can still damage wood and flooring materials if it soaks in long enough.

6. Low Water Pressure

Noticed the shower feels weak and the kitchen sink is the same way? That is often a sign of trouble. One clogged faucet can cause low pressure in one spot, but when the whole house is affected, it usually means water is slipping out somewhere it shouldn’t.

Leaks in the main line or inside walls can waste a lot of water before it reaches your taps. If the drop in pressure is consistent, a hidden leak is a strong possibility.

What To Do If You Suspect a Leak

The most important thing is not to wait. A small leak can cause major damage if it is left alone. Mold can grow quickly, wood can rot, and repair costs can skyrocket.

If you think you have water leaks in your house, call Roth. We have been serving Portland and Central Oregon since 1976. Our plumbers use professional tools to track down leaks, even when they are hidden in walls or under concrete. Once we find the problem, we repair it and make sure your plumbing is back to normal.

With Roth’s White Glove Service, you can expect us to treat your home with care, explain what we find, and leave the space clean when we are finished. Leaks are stressful, but you do not have to deal with them alone.

Picture this. You turn on the shower on a chilly Portland morning, expecting it to warm up, and instead you get a blast of cold water.

Your water heater has finally given up. Now you have a choice to make.

Do you replace it with another traditional tank, or do you switch to a tankless system? 

That is the classic tankless vs tank water heater question. The answer depends on your budget, your hot water needs, and the conditions we have here in Portland. 

Traditional Tank Water Heaters: Familiar and Reliable 

Most Portland homes have a tank water heater. It is the large metal cylinder in a basement, closet, or garage. A tank heats up 30 to 80 gallons of water and keeps it hot until you need it. 

Why people stick with tanks: they are less expensive to buy and install, plumbers know them well, and replacing one is usually straightforward. 

Where they fall short: tanks take up space, waste energy keeping water hot all day, and run out if too many people shower or use hot water at once. Most last 10 to 15 years before they need to be replaced. 

Tankless Water Heaters: Hot Water On Demand 

A tankless unit heats water instantly as it flows through the system. You turn on the tap, and it makes hot water as needed. 

Why they are appealing: no running out of hot water, they are more energy efficient, they take up very little space, and they last 20 years or more. 

The trade-off is cost. A tankless water heater costs more up front and depending on your house you may need electrical or gas upgrades to support it. 

What Makes Sense in Portland? 

Local details matter. Portland’s Bull Run water supply is considered soft, which is good for tankless systems. Hard water causes scale buildup inside a unit, but our water reduces that risk and helps tankless systems last longer. 

Winter here is mild, but the incoming groundwater is still cold. That means a tankless system has to work harder in colder months. If the unit is undersized, you will notice a drop in flow. The solution is choosing the right size for your household. 

Incentives also make a difference. Rebates are available through NW Natural and Energy Trust of Oregon for high-efficiency natural gas tankless systems.

Portland General Electric has efficiency programs that can apply as well. These programs can make a tankless system easier to afford. 

The Cost Breakdown 

In Portland, a tank water heater with installation usually costs between $1,200 and $2,000. A tankless system costs more, usually between $3,000 and $4,500 installed. 

So why would you pay more? Because of operating costs. A tank heater burns energy all day to keep water hot. A tankless unit only turns on when you need hot water. That efficiency can save households $100 or more each year in utility bills. 

Over 20 years, those savings add up. Add in the fact that a tankless system lasts almost twice as long, and the investment often pays itself back. 

So, Which One Is Right for You? 

Here is the simple comparison. 

• Choose a tank if you want a lower upfront cost and a system that is easy to replace. 

• Choose a tankless if you want efficiency, more space, and unlimited hot water, and you are comfortable with a higher upfront investment. 

At Roth, we have been helping families in Portland and Central Oregon choose and install water heaters since 1976. Every household is different. Some care most about price, some about efficiency, and others just want hot water that never runs out. 

If you are trying to decide between a tankless vs tank water heater, call Roth. We will look at your home, talk through your needs, and help you pick the water heater that fits your family best. 

 

The Energy Trust of Oregon is an incredible resource for homeowners, offering cash incentives that make energy-efficient upgrades more manageable. By helping offset the cost of new equipment, the Energy Trust encourages smarter energy use across Portland and Central Oregon. 

Why does this matter? For homeowners, these programs mean lower monthly utility bills, improved home comfort, and a smaller carbon footprint. With Roth’s decades of experience since 1976, we help homeowners choose upgrades that qualify for the right rebates while ensuring every system is installed for long-term performance. 

Stay Cool, Save Green: Cash Incentives for Cooling Solutions 

When the summer sun heats up Portland or Central Oregon, reliable cooling becomes essential. The Energy Trust of Oregon offers cash incentives that make high-efficiency cooling systems more manageable. 

The Power of Heat Pumps 

Modern heat pumps are often overlooked for cooling, but they are among the most efficient systems available. By transferring heat instead of creating it, they provide excellent cooling performance in summer while doubling as heating systems in winter. 

Ducted Heat Pumps 

For homes with existing ductwork, ducted heat pumps are a smart choice. They distribute cool air evenly throughout the home and qualify for generous cash incentives. In many cases, homeowners can receive up to $700 toward a ducted heat pump upgrade, though it is always best to check the Energy Trust of Oregon’s current offerings for the latest amounts. 

Ductless Heat Pumps (Mini-Splits) 

If your home does not have ductwork, a ductless mini-split system is ideal. These units allow for zoned comfort, making them perfect for older Portland homes or targeted areas like additions, attics, and basements. Incentives for ductless systems can be even higher, with rebates up to $1,300 available for qualifying installations. 

Why Upgrade Your AC with Energy Trust of Oregon? 

The benefits extend beyond the cash incentive. Homeowners enjoy superior comfort, lower operating costs, and peace of mind knowing their system meets energy efficiency standards. Roth’s certified technicians ensure your new system is sized and installed correctly so you receive the full value of the upgrade. 

Warm Up to Savings: Heating Solutions Incentives 

Portland winters are damp and chilly, and Central Oregon sees its share of freezing nights. Reliable heating is a necessity, and the Energy Trust of Oregon helps reduce the cost of upgrading to modern systems. 

Heat Pumps: The All-in-One Solution 

Heat pumps shine in this category as well, delivering both heating and cooling in a single unit. Cash incentives are available for both ducted and ductless options, making them a top choice for homeowners looking to improve comfort year-round. 

High-Efficiency Gas Furnaces 

For households that rely on natural gas, upgrading to a high-efficiency furnace can significantly reduce utility bills. The Energy Trust of Oregon often provides cash rebates up to $550 for qualifying models. In some cases, income-qualified households may qualify for incentives exceeding $1,000, further lowering upfront costs. 

Smart Thermostats 

While not as large an investment as a new furnace or heat pump, smart thermostats play a critical role in energy management. These devices optimize heating schedules, reduce waste, and often come with cash incentives from the Energy Trust of Oregon. 

Hot Water, Cooler Bills: Water Heater Cash Rebates 

Water heating accounts for a major portion of energy use in most homes. The Energy Trust of Oregon offers several incentives to help families save money while improving efficiency. 

Heat Pump Water Heaters (HPWH) 

Heat pump water heaters are considered the gold standard for efficiency. Instead of generating heat directly, they use electricity to move heat from the surrounding air into the water. This process is two to three times more efficient than traditional water heating. 

Homeowners can take advantage of significant savings, including instant discounts of up to $700 at participating retailers. For many, this incentive makes switching to a heat pump water heater both practical and cost-effective. 

Tankless Water Heaters (Gas) 

For families who prefer on-demand hot water, tankless gas water heaters provide efficiency and convenience. Incentive amounts vary depending on the system’s BTU input, but the Energy Trust of Oregon often provides cash back for qualifying installations. Roth’s team ensures the right unit is selected and installed so you receive the maximum rebate available. 

Invest in Your Home, Invest in Portland’s Future 

Energy-efficient upgrades are not only about saving money today. They are an investment in the long-term value and comfort of your home. The Energy Trust of Oregon makes these improvements easier by offering generous cash incentives for cooling systems, heating solutions, and water heaters. 

With Roth Home, you get more than just installation. Our team guides you through available incentives, helps you select qualifying equipment, and ensures your new system delivers the performance and efficiency you expect. 

Now is the perfect time to take advantage of these programs. By making energy-efficient choices, you save money, increase comfort, and reduce your environmental impact while supporting a greener future for Portland and Central Oregon. 

Schedule Your Upgrade Today: Contact Roth Home to explore your options and start saving with the Energy Trust of Oregon. 

You bump up the heat. One room still feels like a walk-in freezer. Your AC kicks on mid-morning, even though it's 55 degrees outside. Or maybe you’ve just noticed your energy bills creeping up for no clear reason. If your home’s heating or cooling doesn’t seem to match what your thermostat says, the problem might be the thermostat itself. 

In the Portland metro, temperatures can swing from damp and chilly to hot and dry, all in the same week. And over in Central Oregon, the winters are colder, the air is drier, and the seasonal shifts are more extreme. In both regions, a well-functioning thermostat is crucial for maintaining comfort and keeping energy use in check. 

If your thermostat malfunctions, it doesn’t just create a minor inconvenience. It can reduce efficiency, raise utility costs, and place unnecessary strain on your HVAC system. Recognizing the early signs of failure is the best way to avoid bigger problems later on. 

At Roth, we’ve helped homeowners across Portland and Central Oregon stay comfortable since 1976. If you suspect your thermostat is on the way out, here’s what to look for. And what to do next. 

Signs It's Time for a Thermostat Replacement 

Inconsistent Temperatures or Wild Swings 

Your home feels warm in the hallway but cold in the living room. The temperature jumps up or drops unexpectedly throughout the day, even when no one touches the settings. These fluctuations can be especially frustrating during a Portland summer heatwave or a deep freeze in Central Oregon. 

HVAC System Short-Cycling or Running Constantly 

Your heating or cooling system turns on and off frequently or runs nonstop but never reaches the desired temperature. This kind of behavior often points to thermostat miscommunication. It can drive up energy bills and put extra wear on your system. 

Thermostat is Unresponsive or Has a Blank Display 

You try adjusting the settings, but nothing happens. The display is faded or completely blank. Start by checking the batteries. If that doesn’t solve it, your thermostat may have failed internally and needs to be replaced. 

Skyrocketing Energy Bills Without an Obvious Cause 

If your energy bills are climbing even though your habits haven’t changed, a malfunctioning thermostat could be to blame. When it fails to accurately measure or maintain the correct temperature, your HVAC system may be running harder and longer than it should. 

Old, Outdated Technology 

Still using a mercury thermostat or a manual dial? These older units lack the accuracy and efficiency of modern models. Upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat gives you better temperature control, zoning options, and potential long-term savings. 

HVAC System Doesn’t Turn On or Off 

The most obvious sign that your thermostat needs replacing is when it stops controlling your system altogether. If your furnace or air conditioner won’t turn on or shut off, there’s a good chance the thermostat is no longer sending signals correctly. This is a critical issue that requires immediate attention. 

What to Do If You Spot These Signs 

Unless it’s just a matter of changing the batteries, thermostat replacement is not a DIY project. These devices are wired directly into your HVAC system. Improper installation can create bigger problems or void warranties. 

The best move is to call a licensed HVAC professional who can properly assess the issue. At Roth, we provide: 

• Thorough diagnostics to confirm whether the thermostat is the root cause 

• Expert advice on selecting the right replacement model for your home 

• Full installation of smart, programmable, or basic thermostats depending on your needs

Benefits of a New, Efficient Thermostat 

Upgrading your thermostat does more than fix a problem. It improves how your entire HVAC system functions. 

• More consistent and reliable indoor comfort 

• Lower monthly energy bills 

• Reduced system wear and longer HVAC lifespan 

• Remote control and smart scheduling features 

• Improved resale value with updated home tech 

Modern thermostats are designed to enhance efficiency. They are a smart investment for any home in Portland or Central Oregon. 

Trust Roth to Install a New and Improved Thermostat in Your Portland Home 

If your thermostat isn’t keeping up, don’t wait for a complete system failure. Inconsistent comfort, unexplained energy spikes, and unresponsive controls are all signs that it may be time for a replacement. 

At Roth, we offer honest recommendations, local expertise, and professional installation for homes across Portland and Central Oregon. Our team understands how climate, home layout, and usage patterns all factor into the right thermostat solution. 

A small upgrade today can mean better comfort, better control, and bigger savings down the line. 

Schedule your thermostat inspection or replacement with Roth today. 

If you live in Portland or Central Oregon, you’ve probably heard more people talking about heat pumps. These systems are quickly becoming a favorite for homeowners who want an energy-efficient way to stay warm in winter and cool in summer without relying on fossil fuels or juggling separate HVAC units. 

At Roth, we’ve been helping Oregon families stay comfortable since 1976. In this post, we’ll show you how heat pumps work in clear, simple terms so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your home. 

How a Heat Pump Works

The Basic Principle: Moving Heat, Not Creating It

Unlike furnaces or traditional air conditioners that generate heat or cold air, a heat pump works by moving existing heat from one place to another. In colder months, it pulls heat from the air outside and transfers it indoors. In warmer months, it reverses the process and moves heat out of your home. 

Think of it like a refrigerator. Your fridge doesn’t create cold; it removes heat from inside the compartment and pushes it out of the back. A heat pump works the same way but handles your entire home. 

The Refrigerant Cycle: The Heart of the System 

At the center of every heat pump is a refrigerant that circulates in a loop, changing from liquid to gas and back again. This allows the system to absorb and release heat efficiently. It depends on four main parts: 

• Evaporator Coil: Absorbs heat from the outside air (during heating) or indoor air (during cooling). 

• Compressor: Pressurizes the refrigerant to raise its temperature. 

• Condenser Coil: Releases heat indoors (in heating mode) or outdoors (in cooling mode). 

• Expansion Valve: Drops the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant before it returns to the evaporator. 

Each of these components plays a vital role in keeping the cycle moving and your home comfortable. 

Heating Mode: Pulling Warmth from the Outdoors 

Even when it feels cold outside, there’s still heat in the air. During Portland’s typical winter, cool but rarely freezing, the heat pump’s evaporator coil draws heat from that air. The refrigerant absorbs it, the compressor raises the temperature, and the warm refrigerant moves indoors. The condenser coil then releases that heat, warming your home’s air. 

Because it’s only moving heat, not generating it, this process uses less energy than traditional heating systems. 

Cooling Mode: Reversing the Process 

In the summer, the process flips. A reversing valve changes the direction of the refrigerant. Now, the indoor coil acts as the evaporator, pulling heat from inside your home. The outdoor coil becomes the condenser, pushing that heat into the outside air. The result is a cooler home without the need for a separate air conditioner. 

The Outdoor Unit (Compressor and Coils) 

The outdoor unit houses the compressor and either the evaporator or condenser coil, depending on the season. It plays a major role in regulating refrigerant pressure and transferring heat in or out of your home. It’s important to keep this unit clear of leaves, grass, and other debris. In Portland’s wet climate, buildup can happen quickly, which can affect airflow and system performance. 

The Indoor Unit (Air Handler and Coil)

Inside your home, the air handler works with the indoor coil to move heated or cooled air through your ductwork. Proper airflow is key to even temperatures and efficient operation. If your ducts are leaky or blocked, it can force your system to work harder than it should. 

Keeping filters clean and scheduling routine maintenance are two of the best ways to protect your indoor unit and improve your comfort. 

Auxiliary Heat (Backup for Colder Days)

While Portland winters are usually mild, there are days when the temperature drops low enough that a heat pump’s efficiency starts to dip. That’s where auxiliary heat comes in. 

This backup system, often electric resistance heat or a small gas furnace, automatically activates when the outside temperature gets too low for the heat pump to keep up. It ensures your home stays warm even on the coldest days. 

Types of Heat Pumps (Brief Overview) 

Most homes in Portland and Central Oregon use air-source heat pumps, which draw heat from the air outside. These are the most common and cost-effective options. Some homes use ductless mini-splits, which are ideal for spaces without ductwork or for targeted room-by-room control. Ground-source heat pumps are another type, though less common due to the complexity and cost of installation. 

Ready to Install a Heat Pump in Your Home?

Heat pumps are an energy-saving solution for homeowners in Portland and Central Oregon. Instead of burning fuel or relying on separate heating and cooling systems, you can use one system that moves heat efficiently, reducing your utility bills and environmental impact. 

Roth has been installing and servicing heat pumps in Oregon for decades. Our licensed technicians understand the local climate, the equipment, and how to get the job done right. We also provide white glove service, which means we protect your home, communicate clearly, and follow through from start to finish. 

If you want to know whether a heat pump is the right choice for your home, call Roth today. We’ll help you explore your options and find the best fit for your comfort and efficiency goals. 

Maintaining proper indoor humidity during the winter months is essential for both comfort and health. Balancing humidity levels can prevent a range of issues, from dry skin to damage to your home's interior.

At Roth Home, we understand the importance of optimal humidity and are here to assist you. If you're experiencing humidity-related problems, don't hesitate to contact our team.

Ideal Indoor Humidity Levels in Winter

During winter, indoor humidity levels should ideally range between 30% and 50%. This range ensures a comfortable environment and helps protect both your health and home. Maintaining humidity within this range can prevent issues such as dry skin, respiratory discomfort, and damage to wooden furniture or flooring.

Symptoms of Low Humidity

Low indoor humidity can lead to several discomforts and health concerns, including:

• Dry Skin and Irritation: Reduced moisture in the air can cause skin to become dry, itchy, and prone to cracking.
• Respiratory Issues: Dry air can irritate the respiratory tract, leading to sore throats, sinus congestion, and exacerbation of asthma symptoms.
• Increased Static Electricity: Low humidity levels can result in a noticeable increase in static shocks.
• Damage to Wooden Furniture and Floors: Insufficient humidity can cause wood to shrink, leading to cracks and warping in furniture and flooring.

How To Check Humidity Levels

Monitoring your home's humidity is straightforward with the use of a hygrometer — a device that measures the moisture content in the air. Many modern thermostats come equipped with built-in humidity sensors, allowing for easy monitoring and adjustments.

How To Increase Humidity in Winter

To elevate indoor humidity levels during the colder months, consider these strategies:

• Use of Humidifiers: Humidifiers add moisture to the air, effectively increasing humidity levels. They come in various types, including portable units suitable for single rooms and whole-house systems integrated into your HVAC system for comprehensive coverage.
• Proper Ventilation: While it may seem counterintuitive, ensuring proper ventilation helps balance indoor humidity. Using exhaust fans in areas like bathrooms and kitchens can remove excess moisture generated from activities such as cooking and showering.
• Sealing Drafts: Prevent cold, dry air from entering your home by sealing gaps and cracks around windows and doors. This maintains humidity levels and improves energy efficiency.

Types of Humidifiers and How They Work

Understanding the different types of humidifiers can help you choose the best option for your home:

• Portable Humidifiers: These units are designed for single-room use and are easy to move and set up. They require regular refilling and cleaning to ensure optimal performance and hygiene.
• Whole-House Humidifiers: Integrated into your home's HVAC system, these humidifiers provide consistent humidity levels throughout the entire house. They draw water directly from your plumbing system, reducing the need for frequent maintenance.

Both types function by adding moisture to the air, but whole-house systems offer the advantage of uniform humidity control across all rooms. They also save you time and effort as you don't have to refill or clean the system like you do with its portable counterparts.

Ensuring Proper Indoor Humidity This Winter: Final Thoughts

By monitoring humidity levels and using the right humidification solutions, you can create a healthier, more comfortable living environment.

If you're facing challenges with indoor humidity or need professional whole-home humidifier installation, call Roth Home at (503) 673-6394 or contact us online. Our team is dedicated to providing superior service and ensuring your home's air quality meets the highest standards.

 

The coldest days of winter can put a strain on your furnace, and you may notice your furnace cycling more frequently when the temperature drops.

Typically, a furnace should cycle three to eight times per hour. While furnace cycling is normal, frequent cycling can indicate that your heating is struggling to keep up. We’ve put together this guide to help you understand the difference between normal furnace cycling and short cycling.

Understanding Furnace Cycling & Short Cycling

Is It Normal For a Furnace to Turn On and Off?

It’s normal for your furnace to turn on and off many times each day. However, if it cycles too often, this is called short cycling. Short cycling usually means there is a problem with your heating system.

What is Furnace Short Cycling?

Short cycling happens when your furnace turns on and off every few minutes. Short cycling typically indicates something is wrong with your heater. The problem can be anything from a dirty air filter to a broken motor. Get these issues looked at by a furnace repair specialist as soon as possible.

How Often Should My Furnace Kick On?

Your furnace should typically kick on three to eight times every hour. How often your heat cycles will depend on the size of your home, the size of your unit, and how well-maintained your HVAC system is. While some variation in cycle time is normal, if your furnace is coming on significantly more or less than usual, it’s time to call in a furnace repair expert.

How Often Should the Heat Kick On on Cold Days?

It’s common for your furnace to kick on more frequently in cold weather. While it’s okay if your furnace cycles on and off several times every hour, it shouldn’t cycle on and off more than 8-10 times. If it does, this is known as short cycling, and it’s a sign that something in your heating system needs to be fixed.

How Often Should My Furnace Run Each Cycle?

What’s a Typical Furnace Run Time?

A typical furnace run time is between 10 and 15 minutes. However, some models may run for as long as 20 minutes at a time. If you notice your furnace running for longer than 20 minutes each cycle, this may be a sign it’s working overtime to heat your home.

Furnaces that cycle for extended periods run the risk of overheating or wearing out more quickly than anticipated. If your system is cycling for longer than 20 minutes, call a furnace professional for an inspection.

How Many Times Should a Furnace Cycle in an Hour?

In general, a working furnace will kick on anywhere from 3 to 8 times each hour. However, this number will vary greatly depending on the insulation in your home, the size of your home, and the outside temperature.

How Long Should a Furnace Run Before Shutting Off?

Your furnace will typically run for 10 to 15 minutes before shutting off. In some cases, your heat cycle may last up to 20 minutes. If your furnace runs any longer than this, it’s likely struggling to heat your home properly. If your furnace only runs for a few minutes before shutting off, this can also indicate a problem.

Why is My Furnace Cycling On and Off?

Your furnace may be short cycling for many different reasons, but the best way to diagnose the issue is to call an HVAC technician for repairs. You may have an improperly sized unit, a heater that’s past its prime, or issues with your thermostat or flame sensor. Here’s an overview of the most common short-cycling issues.

Wrong-Sized Furnace

Unfortunately, a bigger furnace doesn’t always solve your heating woes. If you have a furnace that’s too large for the size of your home, it can lead to short cycling and uneven heating.

Most experts recommend 12,000 BTU for every 400-500 square feet within your home. However, this number can change dramatically depending on the climate and how well your home is insulated. It’s best to have an HVAC technician calculate the correct furnace size for your needs.

Overheating

When a furnace’s airflow is restricted, it can lead to overheating within the unit itself. This issue is typically caused by a dirty air filter, faulty heat exchanger, clogged air filter, or debris in your air ducts.

Thermostat Issues

In some cases, your furnace may be in good shape, but your thermostat is sending incorrect signals back to the unit. If your thermostat breaks or reads the wrong temperature, it can lead to your furnace short cycling.

Dirty Flame Sensor

If your furnace only clicks on for a few seconds at a time, it may have a dirty or malfunctioning flame sensor. Having an HVAC technician clean this sensor is the best way to fix short cycling issues.

Clogged Flue

When pests or debris get caught in your flue or vent pipe, your furnace will shut off automatically to protect your home from carbon monoxide poisoning. These types of flue clogs can cause short cycling.

Air Leaks

If your home is poorly insulated, your furnace may need to work harder to heat your home. This can lead to frequent cycling as your furnace strains to raise the temperature.

Old Age

As a furnace ages, it will begin to struggle to heat your home efficiently. This can lead to short cycling. If your furnace is over 10 years old, it’s time to think about a replacement.

Stop Furnace Short Cycling Once and For All

When you need reliable furnace repairs, trust the experts at Roth Home. Our technicians have the experience necessary to accurately diagnose your unit and make effective, long-lasting repairs. We’re the top choice for furnace repair in Portland and the surrounding areas.

Call our residential heating team today at (503) 673-6394 to schedule a furnace inspection.

When it comes to home comfort, tankless water heaters are an excellent investment. While they cost more upfront than traditional tank systems, they offer significant benefits for homeowners. However, like any appliance, tankless water heater issues can develop over time. The good news is that most tankless hot water heater problems can be resolved with proper maintenance.

Common Tankless Water Heater Issues

Here are the five most common tankless water heater issues, along with troubleshooting tips to help restore your hot water.

1. Mineral Deposits

Hard water high in calcium and magnesium can cause significant tankless water heater issues. When minerals build up, they interfere with your system's operation. Check your water filter regularly for mineral deposits or debris that might be causing clogs. Consider installing a water softening system to catch mineral particles before they reach your tankless heater. It’s also important to schedule annual water heater maintenance to prevent buildup.

2. System Overload and Limited Hot Water

This common tankless hot water heater problem happens when multiple hot water applications run at once. Your system has a limited gallons-per-minute (GPM) capacity. When demand exceeds this capacity, you may not get enough hot water. Either limit simultaneous usage or consider upgrading to a higher-capacity system.

3. Cold Water Sandwich Effect

This tankless water heater problem happens when one person uses hot water right after another person is done. You'll get warm water initially, followed by cold water, before hot water returns. This happens because you're getting leftover warm water from the pipes before fresh hot water arrives from the heater. Simply let the water run for 30-60 seconds until it reaches the right temperature.

4. Blocked Exhaust

Gas-powered tankless systems have an exhaust system that vents gases outside. If debris blocks this exhaust pipe, your system will show an error code. Never attempt to clear these blockages yourself – this tankless water heater problem requires a professional inspection of your gas and water valves.

5. Ignition Failure

Gas-powered tankless heaters use a sophisticated ignition system with silicon electric components. If you're not getting hot water, you might have ignition system problems or a faulty gas valve limiting gas flow.

The Importance of Professional Service

While understanding common tankless water heater issues helps you identify problems early, regular professional maintenance is still necessary. Annual service includes a thorough system cleaning, component testing, and calibration testing that extends your system's life.

Professional service offers several key benefits:

• Prevents mineral buildup before it causes damage
• Ensures safe operation of gas and electrical components
• Maintains optimal energy efficiency
• Identifies potential problems before they lead to failures
• Protects your warranty coverage

Many tankless hot water heater problems start small but grow worse over time. Regular maintenance costs far less than emergency repairs or premature system replacement. Plus, a well-maintained system delivers reliable hot water and maximum energy savings year after year.

Expert Water Heater Service

When tankless hot water heater problems arise, trust Roth Home for reliable water heater repairs. Whether you have a tankless or traditional system, our expert service ensures your water heater is running at peak efficiency.

Don't let water heater issues disrupt your daily routine. Call (503) 673-6394 to schedule professional water heater service today.