Common Furnace Issues and Troubleshooting Tips
If you’ve ever found yourself shivering in your own home with your furnace blowing cold air, you’re not alone. One of the most frustrating issues homeowners can face during the winter months is a furnace that doesn’t provide the warmth it should. If you’re wondering, “why is my furnace blowing cold air?” this blog will walk you through some common reasons for this problem and offer potential solutions. Whether you’re in need of furnace repair, maintenance, or just some basic troubleshooting, J.A. Bertsch Heating & Cooling is here to help. We proudly serve Hayden, Coeur d’Alene, Rathdrum, Sandpoint, Post Falls, and surrounding areas.
Common Reasons for a Furnace Blowing Cold Air
1. Thermostat Settings
Sometimes, the issue is simpler than you might think. If your furnace is blowing cold air, one of the first things you should check is your thermostat. Ensure it’s set to “heat” mode and not “cool.” If it’s set correctly and still blowing cold air, it may be worth checking the temperature setting. A thermostat malfunction can also prevent the furnace from turning on properly, leading to intermittent or no heating at all. If you find that your thermostat is malfunctioning, our team at J.A. Bertsch Heating & Cooling can assist with thermostat troubleshooting and repairs.
2. Pilot Light or Ignition Issues
A furnace that won’t ignite properly could be the reason it’s blowing cold air. In many cases, this happens because the pilot light is out or there’s an issue with the ignition system. If you notice that your pilot light has gone out, try to relight it (following your furnace’s manufacturer instructions). If the issue persists, it may require professional intervention to repair the ignition system or inspect the gas valve. If you’re unsure how to safely relight the pilot light or the problem continues, contact J.A. Bertsch Heating & Cooling for expert furnace repair.
3. Dirty Air Filter
Another common culprit behind cold air from your furnace is a clogged or dirty air filter. When the filter becomes too dirty, it restricts airflow, which can cause your furnace to overheat and shut off. This results in cold air blowing out of the vents. Make it a habit to change your air filter regularly, especially during peak heating season. If you’re unsure how to replace it or haven’t done so in a while, our heating maintenance services can help keep your system in top shape.
4. Blower Motor Problems
The blower motor is responsible for circulating warm air throughout your home. If it’s malfunctioning, the furnace may still be producing heat, but the blower is unable to distribute it properly, leaving cold air to come out of the vents instead. If you suspect an issue with your blower motor, contact a professional from J.A. Bertsch Heating & Cooling to diagnose and fix the problem. Ignoring the issue can cause further damage to your system.
5. Faulty Limit Switch
The limit switch is a safety feature that turns off the furnace if it overheats. However, if the limit switch is faulty, it could shut the furnace down prematurely, causing cold air to blow. If your furnace is running but not heating, a malfunctioning limit switch could be the problem. Our expert technicians can test and replace the limit switch as needed to restore your furnace’s proper function.
6. Gas Supply Problems
If your furnace isn’t receiving enough gas, it won’t be able to produce the heat necessary to warm your home. Check if the gas supply valve is turned on, and if the issue persists, it could be due to a gas line blockage or valve malfunction. In this case, it’s crucial to call a professional for safety reasons. At J.A. Bertsch Heating & Cooling, we can inspect your gas lines and resolve any issues safely and efficiently.
What to Do If Your Furnace Is Blowing Cold Air
If you’ve ruled out some of the above common problems and your furnace is still blowing cold air, it’s time to call in the professionals. Ignoring the issue can lead to further damage and higher repair costs. At J.A. Bertsch Heating & Cooling, we offer fast and reliable heating repair services in Hayden, Coeur d’Alene, Rathdrum, Sandpoint, Post Falls, and surrounding areas. Our certified technicians are trained to diagnose and repair a wide range of furnace issues, ensuring that your home stays warm and comfortable all winter long.
Furnace Maintenance and Regular Inspections
Preventing issues like a furnace blowing cold air starts with regular maintenance. At J.A. Bertsch Heating & Cooling, we offer comprehensive furnace maintenance plans to ensure your system is always running efficiently. With regular inspections, we can catch small problems before they turn into costly repairs.
Avoid Cold Air with Professional Furnace Services
A furnace that’s blowing cold air can be a sign of several issues, from thermostat problems to dirty air filters or a malfunctioning blower motor. While some issues are simple fixes, others may require professional attention. If your furnace is still blowing cold air after trying some of these troubleshooting steps, contact J.A. Bertsch Heating & Cooling at (208) 715-9694 for expert service. We’re proud to serve Spirit Lake, St Maries, Athol, Blanchard, Dalton Gardens, and surrounding areas, ensuring your furnace keeps you warm all season long.
FAQs
Should I turn my furnace off if it’s blowing cold air?
If your furnace is blowing cold air, it’s not always necessary to turn it off. First, check your thermostat settings and ensure it’s set to heat mode. If the furnace continues to blow cold air, turning it off can help prevent any further damage. However, if the issue persists, it’s important to contact a professional technician to inspect your furnace. At J.A. Bertsch Heating & Cooling, we offer quick diagnostic services to get your furnace back to heating your home efficiently.
How to reset a furnace?
Resetting your furnace is a simple process, but the steps can vary depending on the make and model of your system. Generally, you can reset a furnace by turning off the power to the unit via the circuit breaker, waiting about 30 seconds, and then turning it back on. If this doesn’t resolve the cold air issue, you may need to check the thermostat or pilot light. If you’re unsure or need professional help, we offer expert furnace troubleshooting and reset services in Worley, Plummer, Harrison, and nearby areas.
Where is the reset button on a thermostat?
Most modern thermostats do not have a physical reset button. Instead, you can reset a thermostat by turning it off for about 10-15 seconds and then turning it back on. If your thermostat is malfunctioning and this method doesn’t work, it might be time to check for issues such as dead batteries or internal faults. For any thermostat repairs or upgrades, reach out to J.A. Bertsch Heating & Cooling for professional thermostat services.
How long does it take for a thermostat to reset?
When you reset a thermostat, it usually only takes about 10-15 seconds for the unit to reboot. However, if there are issues such as a power surge or malfunction, it may take longer, or the thermostat may not reset properly.
How do you know if your thermostat is not working?
A malfunctioning thermostat can lead to inconsistent temperatures or your furnace blowing cold air. Some signs that your thermostat may not be working include:
- Inconsistent room temperatures.
- The furnace not turning on or off when expected.
- Your home heating or cooling running constantly. If you’re noticing these issues, it may be time to replace or repair your thermostat.
If you have more questions or need help with your furnace, reach out to J.A. Bertsch Heating & Cooling for prompt and professional service. We’re here to ensure your home stays warm and comfortable all winter long.