Most homes in the United States have turned to furnaces to keep them warm during winter. Even when checking each vent and room to keep the rooms warm, you may find that some areas are colder than others. This can indicate a malfunctioning furnace. Knowing these signs can help you address the issues before a complete heating system failure. That way, you can stay warm and cozy all winter.
1. Pilot Light Is Out
Older gas furnaces require extra precautions. Most new furnaces have an ignition switch instead of a pilot light, but many furnaces out there still rely on a pilot light. When furnaces age, they can have issues with the pilot light staying on, thus struggling to heat the home consistently.
If you light up your furnace and the light immediately goes off again, this could indicate an issue with the gas line connection and may explain why your furnace is blowing cold air instead of warm air. Contact a professional to address the problem.
2. The Ducts Are Damaged
Ducts are primarily meant for distributing the warm air from the gas furnace to all areas of your home. They are prone to sagging over time, creating cracks and leaks. Whenever there are tears in the ducts, cold air can be sucked from the unheated parts of the house, like the basement. As a result, this could mix with the heated air and eventually get distributed within the home, keeping the building cool rather than heating it. Calling an HVAC professional to check on the ductwork for leaks could help solve the problem.
3. The Filters Are Clogged With Dust
Filters are the primary part of the furnace that regulates indoor air quality. They are responsible for removing particulates and contaminants from the air. They also keep dust from getting into the furnace system. If there is an overabundance of dust, it may cause overheating of the system or clogging, making it blow cold air instead of warm. You should change the filter at least every three months. If you use a higher-grade filter or have household pets, you might need to change it every three to four weeks.
4. the Flame Sensors Are Dirty
With gas furnaces, flame sensors are a major safety feature. They detect if there is a flame before allowing gas to flow. This prevents the build-up of natural gas or propane in the home, preventing a hazardous situation. When the flame sensors get dirty, they may not detect the flame, thus stopping the flow of fuel. As a result, cold air is blown. While these parts are not expensive, they should always be maintained by a professional HVAC technician.
5. There Are Worn-Out Parts
Furnaces have a lifespan of 10 to 20 years, after which you will need to replace them to avoid constant breakdowns and repairs. Some parts of the furnace slowly wear out over time as it gets used. Such features include gas valves or thermocouples, which can result in less effective furnace functionality. When cold air is blown due to the worn-out parts mentioned above, it indicates a bigger issue with the furnace that needs to be addressed immediately by an HVAC professional to prevent more damage.
6. Improper Installation or Maintenance
It is always difficult for untrained individuals to properly install or maintain the furnace. As a result, many parts of the furnace may get damaged during the process, leading to function problems such as cold air from the vents and overheated furnaces. Thus, working with a certified technician is always advisable when you need repairs or a new HVAC system.
Schedule an Appointment With HVAC Experts
Blowing cold air is just one indicator of a malfunctioning furnace. If you witness abnormal smells from the vents, persistent noises, poor air quality, or difficulty starting the unit, you’ll want to call for repairs. Tripped carbon-monoxide detectors, unusual heating bills, and constant adjusting of the thermostat are also indicators that your furnace needs attention.
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