If you are like most homeowners, you rely on your HVAC unit to keep your home comfortable. But what happens if your unit isn’t doing its job? While a malfunctioning unit may not be on the top of your list of priorities right now, you don’t want to be stuck without heat when the temperatures are at their lowest!
Some of the most common reasons your furnace may be blowing cold air and what you can do about it can be found here.
It was Just Turned On
Any furnace is going to blow out cold air when it is first turned on. This is because it is going to take time for the heated air to move through the system and into your home. All the cold air that has been trapped inside the system will have to be expelled before the hot air takes over. In most cases, this is not the signs of a serious issue.
The Thermostat has been Set Too Low
You should make sure that the thermostat is set to a higher temperature than your home and that it is running in the “heat” mode. If you have just changed the setting, you should wait for it to completely reset. If your furnace still blows cold air, check the batteries in your thermostat. If replacing the batteries doesn’t help, then you may have to have your thermostat recalibrated or have it replaced with a new one.
Dirty or Damaged Ducts
It is important to inspect your duct system for any loose joints, holes, tears, or leaks that are allowing heated air to escape into your attic or basement. Additionally, cold air that is in these spaces may get into the ventilation if the ducts have been damaged.
Debris and dirt that have accumulated can also block the airflow and slow the movement of hot air through your ducts. In most cases, this won’t be so serious that it affects the heating unit, but if the airflow is complete blocked, the furnace may overheat and turn off.
Insufficient Insulation
You need to check the insulation in your home, particularly in the areas where the ducts are. Think about adding additional insulation if it has become damaged, torn or if it is too thin. Improper insulation is going to allow the heat to escape from your home, and the ducts passing through the rooms in your home without proper insulation will also wind up losing heat. This results in your heater having to work harder, resulting in higher energy costs.
Problems with the Heater or Furnace
In some cases, the issue may be with your heating system. The best way to detect this type of issue is by calling the professionals. They will be able to inspect your unit and make any necessary repairs.
Don’t ignore issues with your heating system. While some problems are fairly common and a non-issue, it is important to take action if serious problems are detected.