Being stuck with a furnace that’s not heating your home can be a nightmare scenario for any homeowner. But what’s even worse? When your furnace is actually blowing cold air into your home.
Instead of keeping you warm and comfortable, your heating system ends up making your house feel even chillier. This problem is more common than you might think, and while it can feel overwhelming at first, the cause is often something simple that can be identified and resolved quickly.
In the latest blog post from Flow-Tech Plumbing & Heating, we’ll discuss some of the most common culprits behind a furnace blowing cold air and what you can do to fix them.
Problem #1: Clogged Filters
Furnaces use filters to prevent dust, dirt, debris, and other airborne pollutants from being spread across the home. Over time, though, filters fill up with these particles and become clogged. When this happens, your furnace has to work much harder to push air through, which can restrict airflow and even cause the system to overheat. In many cases, the safety system will shut down the burners to protect the furnace, leaving you with nothing but cold air blowing through the vents.
The Solution to Clogged Filters
If your furnace is blowing cold air, you should always start by checking the air filter. Not only is it the most common cause, but it’s also the easiest and most inexpensive to fix. If your filters are clogged, simply putting a new, clean filter in can restore proper airflow and allow your furnace to heat your home efficiently again. For best results, make a habit of inspecting your filter monthly during the heating season and replacing it every 1–3 months, depending on the type of filter and how often your system runs.
Problem #2: Thermostat Problems
Your thermostat serves as the point of communication between your family and the heating system. When you bump the temperature up a couple of degrees, your thermostat communicates that change to the furnace, telling it when to turn on and how long to run.
If your thermostat is dealing with issues, though, it may not be properly communicating with your furnace. This can result in the system running at the wrong time, shutting off too soon, or even blowing cold air instead of heat. Most commonly, thermostat issues revolve around incorrect settings, dead batteries, or wiring issues.
The Solution to Thermostat Problems
Before you can solve your thermostat troubles, the exact issue needs to be identified. To start, try changing the batteries, as this is the easiest and most cost-effective solution. If that doesn’t help, we recommend scheduling an appointment with your local Goshen HVAC technician to thoroughly inspect the thermostat and ensure it’s properly calibrated and wired.
A professional can quickly determine if the thermostat can be repaired or if it needs to be replaced altogether, getting your HVAC system back on track and keeping your home warm.
Problem #3: Ignition Issues
Ignition issues can vary depending on your furnace’s fuel source. If you have a gas furnace, the problem may stem from a faulty pilot light, dirty burners, or a malfunctioning electronic ignition system. Electric furnace ignition issues, though, can be caused by faulty heating elements, damaged wiring, or problems with the control board.
In either case, when ignition fails, the system cannot produce heat, even though the blower fan may continue circulating air through your home.
The Solution to Furnace Ignition Issues
If you have a gas furnace, try checking the pilot light. You should see a steady blue flame; if it’s not showing up, it may need to be relit according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If the flame is yellow or flickering, it may indicate dirty burners or another issue that requires professional cleaning.
Electric furnace ignition issues should be left to a professional HVAC technician. Dealing with burnt-out heating elements or faulty wiring can be dangerous and requires specialized tools and training. A licensed technician can safely identify the root cause and make the necessary repairs.
Problem #4: Mechanical Failures
Furnaces contain lots of moving parts, all of which play important roles in creating heat and spreading it across the home. Any mechanical failures, such as a broken blower motor, loose fan belt, or worn-out bearings, can prevent warm air from moving properly through your ductwork. In some cases, the furnace may start up but shut down prematurely, while in others, the system might keep running but only push out cool air because heated air is not being circulated effectively.
The Solution to Mechanical Failures
Mechanical failures should never be treated as DIY projects. They require specialized tools and knowledge, and attempting a furnace repair on your own can be dangerous to yourself, your home, and the furnace. Always contact a professional for Goshen furnace repair services to ensure the problem is diagnosed accurately and fixed safely.
Preventing Future Furnace Problems With Routine Maintenance
No homeowner wants to deal with furnace issues in the middle of Goshen’s cold winter days. Scheduling regular maintenance can keep your heating system running its best, giving you the peace of mind you need when temperatures drop.
For homeowners in Goshen and across Elkhart County, turning to a trusted local company like Flow-Tech Plumbing & Heating means you’ll always have reliable support when you need it most. With a properly maintained system, you can keep your home comfortable, your utility bills low, and your furnace working at its best.
Choose Flow-Tech for Furnace Repairs in Goshen
Dealing with a furnace that just can’t seem to keep your home warm? Give Flow-Tech Plumbing & Heating a call today! We understand you don’t compromise when it comes to the comfort and safety of your home, and neither do we. That’s why we’re on your side to provide fast and effective furnace repairs in Goshen, IN.
Schedule an appointment with our team today!
