6 Reasons Why Your Furnace Is Blowing Cold Air in the Winter

If you rely on a furnace to provide heat to your Cincinnati-area home, it can be more than just a minor inconvenience when it blows air that isn’t warm enough. Unfortunately, there are many reasons that this may happen, and it’s important that homeowners determine the root cause of the issue to ensure they get the proper repairs.

In this article, the HVAC experts at National Heating and Air Conditioning discuss the most common reasons that furnaces blow cold air and recommend solutions to help homeowners understand the next steps.

1. Thermostat issues

Your thermostat acts as the brain of your HVAC system. If it’s malfunctioning or improperly set, your furnace may blow cold air. The first step is to check your thermostat to ensure it’s set to the proper heating mode. If it’s and you still aren’t getting any warmth from your furnace, you may need thermostat repairs or replacement. Call a licensed HVAC professional to diagnose the issue and provide repairs. 

You can even take this opportunity to upgrade to a programmable or smart thermostat which will give you improved comfort, convenience, and energy efficiency. 

2. Dirty or damaged air filter

Restricted airflow is often at the heart of many HVAC issues. If the filter in your furnace is clogged, air can’t move through the system, causing it to overheat and shut down. If you’re struggling with cold air from your vents, check your filters to see if they’re dirty or filled with debris. If they are, you can replace them by locating the filter compartment on your furnace. 

Prevent these issues in the first place by replacing filters every one to three months and scheduling your annual furnace maintenance.

3. Clogged condensate line or pump

Condensation is a byproduct of any combustion. Furnaces use a line or pump to remove this water from the system to keep it working properly. However, over time, these lines can become clogged with things like debris or mold. When this happens, you may notice puddles at the base of your unit and your furnace may shut off to prevent water damage. 

If you experience standing water, mildew smells, or increased humidity, call a professional to clear your condensate line.

4. Leaking air duct

If the ductwork in your home isn’t well sealed and has multiple cracks or gaps, the warm air that your furnace produces may be escaping before it can get to you. Instead, you’ll only feel cool air blowing through your vents. 

If you suspect this is the issue in your home, contact a professional for ductwork repairs and sealing. This will ensure that your heated air can be distributed into your home and prevent dirt and dust from getting into your ducts, resulting in improved indoor air quality. 

5. Clogged coils

The evaporator coils in your furnace that are responsible for absorbing heat from inside your home can get clogged with dust, pet dander, debris, and more. When this occurs, the airflow to the system is restricted and can cause your system to malfunction as it can no longer exchange heat effectively. If you notice leaks or see frost on your refrigerant lines, trust a professional to inspect and clean the coils to restore your heating and your comfort. 

6. Pilot light or gas supply issues for gas furnaces

A healthy pilot light on a gas furnace should be blue. This vibrant color is an indicator that fuel combustion is occurring properly. If the light is out or is a yellow color, you likely have a combustion issue, which will not only impact your comfort but can also be a carbon monoxide hazard. 

Homeowners can attempt to relight their pilot light to restore their heating. However, if this is unsuccessful, you likely need to call for professional furnace repairs. 

Schedule an Inspection With National!

If your furnace is blowing cold air, don’t suffer in the cold. Instead, call National Heating and Air Conditioning for a professional inspection. Our NATE-certified technicians have the skills and training to provide you with an accurate diagnosis. Plus, with 24/7 emergency services, we’re here for you even on the coldest day of the year. Since 1931, we’ve been Cincinnati’s top choice for HVAC care thanks to our 100% satisfaction guarantee. Experience the National Difference today!

Keep your home at the perfect temperature with comprehensive furnace services from National Heating and Air Conditioning. Call now to schedule with our team of experts!