When the temperature outside starts to dip, the last thing you want to deal with is cold air inside.
While modern furnaces are designed to offer warm and cozy temperatures, sometimes they may start to blow cold air. If you're in this situation, don't worry, we've got some tips on how to troubleshoot your furnace if it's blowing cold air.
Reasons Why Your Home's Heat Is Struggling
The Pilot Light is Damaged
Furnaces feature a pilot light that helps ignite the gas and keep it burning. If this light is damaged or in need of repair, then your furnace won't be able to generate any heat. If you look at your pilot light and it's not lit or flickering, you may need to reset the flame.
In most cases, you can restart the pilot light by following these steps:
- Find the pilot light shut-off switch and turn it to "off"
- Wait for about five minutes before turning it back to "on"
- Follow lighting instructions printed on the inside of your furnace door
- Once lit, check to make sure the flame is steady and not flickering
However, you may find that the pilot light won't stay lit and needs to be replaced. If this is the case, it's best to call an HVAC expert for advice and help.
The Flame Detector is Dirty or Blocked
The flame detector located at the top of your furnace prevents gas from being released into the air. However, if this sensor gets blocked or dirty with dirt, dust, and debris, then it won't be able to do its job correctly.
When this happens, it's essential to clean the flame detector. To do this, shut off the gas supply, remove the covers from your furnace and carefully clean any dirt from the flame detector. Once you've done this, turn on the gas and test to make sure that everything is working properly.
If you are unsure of how to do this, it may be a good idea to call an HVAC professional for advice and help.
Low Gas Supply
Another reason why your furnace may be blowing cold air is due to a low gas supply. Low gas can cause the furnace to not ignite properly, leading to cool airflow and causing overheating cycles.
If you suspect this could be the issue, it's best to call an HVAC expert for help. They can come in and check the pressure of your gas supply to make sure that it's at the right level.
Clogged Air Filter
A clogged air filter can also prevent warm air from being pushed into the home. A dirty air filter will reduce airflow, leading to a decrease in heater performance. To fix this issue, check your air filter and replace it if necessary. Make sure to choose an air filter that matches the size and type of your furnace.
Damaged Ductwork
Another potential issue is damaged ductwork. If your ductwork has been bent, crushed, or cracked, the warm air won't reach the right places in your house. To fix this issue, you may need to call an HVAC expert to come and inspect your ducts to ensure there isn't any damage.
The Thermostat is Set to "Auto" Instead of "Heat"
The last possible issue could be more simple than you expect! For many furnaces, the thermostat is set by default to "auto" instead of "heat" throughout the year. This means that your furnace will blow cool air until it senses a drop in temperature.
If you want to force the furnace to heat your home, ensure your thermostat is set to "heat" mode. If the sensor isn't picking up a temperature drop, try setting the thermostat a few degrees lower than your current room temperature.
Heat Problems in Conroe, Texas? Call The AC Guy
If your furnace is blowing cold air, it’s time to check for the above issues. In some cases, a simple fix can get the warmth moving again.
However, if you think that there may be more serious issues at play, then it's best to call an HVAC expert for advice and help. Not only can a professional HVAC technician diagnose and repair any problems you may have, but they can also perform maintenance on your system to make sure that it's running as efficiently as possible.
If you're looking for a reliable HVAC company in Conroe, Texas, then look no further than The AC Guy. Our team of certified technicians is highly experienced with all types of heating and air conditioning systems. We provide fast and reliable repairs, as well as maintenance services that are tailored to your individual needs.
Contact The AC Guy today for all your HVAC repair and maintenance needs! Our team is standing by, ready to help you get your furnace back up and running in no time. Give us a call today at 281-419-8035 to learn more or schedule a service online to get started.
281-419-8035