Your furnace blowing cold air can be scary, but it doesn’t have to be. Furnace repair and replacement costs can add up quick, so you’ll want to be sure of the health of your furnace before having to spend money you may not need to. With that being said, there are many reasons why your heater is blowing cold air, but luckily Ace Air Conditioning & Plumbing is here with a guide to help you identify which reason(s) your furnace is blowing cold air.
Your Furnace is Heating Up
Furnaces can take about 2 minutes to heat up and begin producing hot air, so, when you turn on your furnace for the first time in a while, it may take a few seconds to start heating. Your water heater works the same way; when you turn on your water, it may take a while longer for hot water to come out.
If your furnace takes more than 15 minutes to make hot air, it may be time to schedule an inspection.
Check Your Thermostat Settings
Sometimes, the issue is as easy to fix as changing a setting on your thermostat. When your thermostat setting is “ON,” it will continue to release air, even if it is not heated. Yet, if you switch your settings to “AUTO,” this will ensure your furnace is only blowing heated air.
The Pilot Light is Out
Many older model furnaces contain a pilot light that fuels the furnace. If your heater is still blowing cold air, the pilot light may be the issue. Luckily, this issue is easy to fix since many heaters come with an instruction manual on reigniting the pilot light. If you still have problems solving reigniting your pilot light, we are here to help.
Damaged Ductwork in Your Home
The ductwork is what your air flows through from your furnace throughout your home. If there are any cracks or holes in your ductwork, cold air from the attic can seep in as the hot air escapes. Damaged ductwork will cause problems during the summer resulting in uneven cooling in your home, but this issue can easily be remedied.
Your Furnace Has Overheated
As alarming as it sounds, your furnace overheating is more common than you think. There are many reasons for your furnace overheating and it does not necessarily mean it is time for a total replacement.
Your furnace can overheat for reasons such as dirt and grime buildup on and inside your machine, airflow restriction, or short cycling. When your furnace overheats, it will stop working to prevent carbon monoxide leaks or even a fire.
Dirt and Grime Build Up
Newer model furnaces use flame sensors instead of a pilot light, and over time these flame sensors can build up with dirt and grime. This buildup will cause the furnace to overheat and shut off the burner. When the burner shuts off, the heater will cycle through the warm and cold air. This issue can be resolved with some cleaning of your furnace to restore it to its original state.
The air filter can also grow buildup and will then restrict airflow to the furnace. If the airflow is restricted, this will cause the furnace to run for a longer time and overheat. A general rule for all homeowners: change the filter at least every 90 days.
Still Noticing Cold Air Blowing From Your Furnace?
Ace Air Conditioning & Plumbing is the resolution for all your furnace repair needs! We want to ensure that you are comfortable in your home. Contact us for any furnace needs!
