There’s nothing quite like the relief of finding refuge in your cozy, warm home after being out in the frigid cold and snow. However, if your furnace is blowing cold air, your home is no longer a comfy, safe haven, but yet another place you need to bundle up in order to stay warm. The last thing that you want is to waste energy by running your furnace if it’s blowing cold air instead of warm air.
Fortunately, if your furnace is blowing cold air, this is typically something that can be fixed. Here’s what you need to know about some of the most common reasons why your furnace is blowing cold air and what you should do if this happens to you.
#1. Your Furnace Isn’t Warmed Up Yet
If there’s cold air coming out of your vents instead of hot air, there’s no need to panic just yet. Like your body when you work out, your furnace may simply need some time to warm up before it starts working properly. Think of your car, and how it can take a few minutes for it to start heating up in the cold. That can also occur with your furnace, especially if it’s the first time that you’re turning it on in the season.
However, if your furnace is blowing cold air after 10 to 15 minutes, you likely have another issue on your hands.
#2. Your Thermostat Is Set To On
This is an easy mistake to make, but one that’s just as easy to fix, no need to call an HVAC technician at all! You may have set your thermostat to ‘On’ instead of ‘Auto’ because you want the heat going. However, when you do this, this means that even after your home has reached the desired temperature, your furnace will continue to blow air. Since it’s already heated your home, the air it then blows is cold.
You want to ensure that you set your thermostat to ‘Auto’ instead of ‘On’. That way, it only runs when it needs to, and the air it blows will be nice and hot.
#3. Issues With The Thermostat
While we’re talking about thermostats, it’s important to note that the reason why your furnace is blowing cold air could also be because your thermostat needs repairs or replacement. If your thermostat is old or sends incorrect signals, this can cause issues in how your furnace runs.
You’ll want to check that your thermostat is set to your desired temperature. If it is and your furnace is blowing cold air, you may want to contact an HVAC technician to come out and take a look.
#4. Your Air Filters Are Dirty
If your furnace filters are clogged, dirty, or in need of replacement, this can impact the functionality of your furnace. This is because it affects the airflow. If your furnace can’t blow enough air across the coils, this can cause your furnace to blow cold air, rather than hot air.
Fortunately, furnace filters are easy to clean and replace. You may also consider having your ducts cleaned, for optimal airflow and indoor air quality.
#5. Your System Is Overheated
This plays into the point above, because if your furnace doesn’t blow enough air across the heat coils, this can cause your furnace system to overheat. There are a few other factors that can result in your system overheating and shutting down, too.
If your furnace is blowing cold air, this could be because there’s dirt built up inside its moving parts. This could also be do to mechanical failure or lack of maintenance. It can also occur when your furnace is reaching the end of its lifespan and is due for replacement.
If your furnace is overheated, it may blow cold air and then shut off. You can contact your local HVAC technician to come out and see what’s going on.
#6. There Are Issues With The Gas Supply
This applies if you have a gas furnace, because these types of furnaces need gas in order to generate heat. If there are issues with the gas supply and it’s either not producing enough gas or not producing any at all, this can cause your furnace to still run, but without heat. Ergo, your furnace is blowing cold air.
If you have a gas furnace, you can check other gas appliances in your home to see if they are also having problems. Depending on whether the issue is contained to your furnace or not, you will want to contact either an HVAC professional or your gas company.
Is Your Furnace Blowing Cold Air?
These are but 6 of the most common reasons why your furnace is blowing cold air. If you’re struggling with this issue, the experienced professionals here at R & D Heating And Air can help! Contact us today to schedule your furnace repair and let us get your home warm again!
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