8 Possible Causes of Your Furnace Blowing Cold Air

8 Possible Causes of Your Furnace Blowing Cold Air

Furnaces are crucial parts of a homeowner’s life, especially during the winter months when these heating units are used the most. Although the primary role of a furnace is to provide hot air or heating in your home, it is a point of serious concern if it starts blowing cold air.

This issue is not as common as others, but the causes behind the problem are some of the most common causes of furnace failure. So, in case your furnace blows cold air, read this informative and helpful article to learn more about the possible causes.

The Pilot Light Stops Working

Pilot light issues occur in gas- or oil-based furnaces, and these issues are a common reason your furnace blows cold air. If your old furnace has a standing pilot, it means you need to relight the pilot. If it doesn’t keep the pilot light lit, there can be gas or oil supply related issues due to a clogged pipe. Besides, it is possible that the thermocouple is dirty or malfunctioning.

It is best if you fix this minor issue on your own. But if it remains the same, you are advised to hire a certified professional for heater repair in San Diego.

Flame Sensor Failure‍

Instead of the typical pilot light, some furnaces use flame sensors that detect the ignition of gas inside the furnace. Unfortunately, the flame sensor tends to get covered in coats of dirt and grime over time. The sensor controls the gas valve to open and close; when it fails or malfunctions due to excessive dirt and grime, it stops detecting the flame. As a result, it shuts down the furnace and blows cold air.
You might not be able to fix this issue, and therefore, it is better to look for professional help rather than continuing with a DIY approach.

Dirty or Clogged Air Filter‍

If you are using your HVAC system for heating, make sure you clean or change its air filter on time. If you don’t do this every 2 or 3 months, the air filter can get dirty and clog. As a result, air can’t pass through it, leading to no effect of the furnace or cold air coming out of the system. Note that if a dirty filter remains uncleaned for a long time, it can damage your system to a level where it might need multiple repairs.

Thermostat Problems‍

Sometimes there can be a problem with the thermostat; it might malfunction and become unable to turn on the furnace, resulting in no warm air coming into your room. Another issue can be that you might have set it to ‘on.’ In contrast, it is usually advised to keep your thermostat set to ‘auto.’ As a result, the blower fan doesn’t deliver cold air and will remain shut until the furnace turns back on after shutting off by completing a heating cycle.

Leaky Ducts‍

Leaky ducts are one of the most ordinary reasons you might experience cold air from furnace air vents. Old ductwork tends to grow gaps between joints or develop holes or leaks over time. When ducts leak out warm air, you may get cold air into your rooms as most of the hot air leaks out of the ducts, also causing energy waste.

Leaking ducts also put a load on your furnace as it works hard to provide sufficient heating. If this occurs for an extended period, your heater can be damaged and you might need a heater replacement in Riverside, CA. Therefore, get your ducts and heater inspected today to avoid the problem.

Power Supply Issues‍

In gas- or oil-based furnaces, energy supply issues can cause it to blow cold air. Similarly, in electronic heating appliances, there can be some electric connections that prevent your furnace from turning on while the blower fan still runs. As a result, your heater will not blow out hot air; instead, it may blow out cold air. As you don’t want to stay cold in the bone-chilling winter season, it is advised to hire a professional to get your furnace inspected and fixed.

Clogged Drain Line‍

Your heater produces water during the process of providing heat in your rooms. This water exits the system via condensate drain lines. When these drain lines get dirty due to the collection of dust, mold, or mildew, the lines can get clogged. Clogged lines will not allow the burner to ignite, and that is why your furnace might blow out cold air. The system prevents the furnace from turning on to prevent the drain line from overflowing, leaking out to your home, and causing water damage.
Instead of trying to resolve this problem on your own, it is suggested to contact a reliable HVAC company for condensate drain cleaning or furnace tune-up services.

Broken Heat Exchanger‍

When the heat exchanger gets cracked or damaged, it can create a potential problem. It also leads to the circulation of carbon monoxide within the system and your home, causing health issues. It will also stop your furnace from producing heat. In order to avoid any heating related problems, make sure you service your heater every year before the winter season approaches.

As the winter season has arrived, are you looking for a heater installation in Poway, CA? If yes, you can count on our experienced and trained technicians. We provide all types of heating, cooling, ventilation, and plumbing services in San Diego and surrounding regions. Call us today to get a quote