Why is My Furnace Blowing Cold Air?

Have you found yourself in the frustrating situation of your furnace suddenly blowing cold air? If so, you’re certainly not alone. This common issue can be highly inconvenient and uncomfortable, especially when you rely on your furnace to keep you warm during Murphysboro’s chilly winter months. 

The good news is that you don’t need to endure this discomfort for long. Heartland Heating, Air & Plumbing is here to provide you with answers – and solutions. In this blog, we’ll look at the possible reasons why your furnace is blowing cold air and how our team of NATE-certified HVAC technicians can handle your furnace repair in Murphysboro, IL, and restore your home’s warmth.

Why Does a Furnace Blow Cold Air?

Several factors can cause this issue, and understanding them is crucial for resolving the problem effectively. 

Thermostat Settings

Sometimes, the issue isn’t with your furnace but with the thermostat settings. Ensure that your thermostat is set to the heating mode and the desired temperature. It’s possible that someone accidentally switched your HVAC system to cooling mode or lowered the temperature setting.

Dirty Air Filter

A clogged or dirty air filter can restrict airflow, causing your furnace to overheat and shut off its burners as a safety measure. When this happens, the blower may continue to run, circulating cold air throughout your home. Regularly replacing or cleaning your air filter can prevent this issue.

Pilot Light or Ignition Problems

For gas HVAC systems, the pilot light or ignition system is crucial for heating the air. If the pilot light is out or the ignition system is malfunctioning, your furnace won’t be able to produce warm air. A professional technician can inspect and repair these components.

Thermocouple Issues

The thermocouple is a safety device that detects the pilot light’s presence. If it’s faulty or dirty, it might shut off the gas supply, causing your furnace to blow cold air. A technician can clean or replace the thermocouple as needed.

Fuel Supply Problems

If you have a gas furnace, ensure your home’s gas supply is uninterrupted. A disruption in the gas supply will prevent your furnace from producing heat.

Clogged or Blocked Vents

Obstructed vents or ductwork can impede the flow of warm air from your furnace to the rooms in your home. Check for any obstructions and ensure that vents and ducts are clean and free of debris.

Heat Exchanger Issues

A cracked or damaged heat exchanger can cause HVAC units to blow cold air. This is a serious issue as it can also release carbon monoxide into your home. If you suspect a heat exchanger problem in your Murphysboro area home, shut off your furnace immediately and contact a professional for repairs.

Incorrect Sizing

If your furnace is too small for your home’s heating needs, it may struggle to provide sufficient warmth, leading to cold air blowing from the vents. Conversely, an oversized furnace can short-cycle and result in inefficient heating. (The same problem applies to your air conditioner – proper sizing is incredibly important!)

Electrical or Control Board Problems

Faulty electrical components or a malfunctioning control board can disrupt the heating process. Only a qualified technician should handle electrical issues to avoid further complications.

Lack of Maintenance

Regular furnace maintenance is essential to prevent breakdowns and ensure efficient operation. Neglecting maintenance can lead to various problems, including cold air blowing from your furnace.

When to Call an HVAC Professional for Assistance

When your furnace is blowing cold air, several potential causes need to be considered. While some issues can be resolved through simple troubleshooting, others require the expertise of professional HVAC contractors. 

If you’ve checked your thermostat settings, replaced or cleaned the air filter, and ensured there are no obstructions in vents or ducts, but the furnace still blows cold air, it’s time to call a qualified HVAC company for help.

Trust Heartland to Solve Your Furnace Problem

When you call Heartland Heating, Air & Plumbing for furnace repair in Murphysboro, IL, our technicians will follow a structured process to diagnose and resolve your cold air issue as quickly as possible. 

First, we’ll check your thermostat settings and replace any dirty air filters for improved airflow. For gas furnaces, we’ll inspect the pilot light, gas supply, and electrical components. The heat exchanger, blower motor, ductwork, gas valve, and ignition system will also be examined.

In some cases, we may perform pressure and gas flow testing to ensure the furnace is receiving the right gas supply.

After identifying the exact problem, our team will discuss its findings with you and recommend the appropriate repairs. With your approval, we’ll get right to work fixing the issue in order to restore your home’s warmth. 

In cases where repairs are not cost-effective or your HVAC unit has outlived its useful life, our knowledgeable team can provide valuable guidance on the next steps to take. This may involve installing a new unit tailored to your specific needs and budget. We offer a range of high-efficiency heating systems for you to choose from, and our experts can help you select the right one for your home. Whether it’s a new furnace installation or an alternative heating system, we’re here to ensure your comfort and satisfaction through excellent service and top-notch workmanship.

Schedule Your Furnace Repair in Murphysboro, IL Today

When you encounter furnace problems, you can trust Heartland Heating, Air & Plumbing to provide prompt and reliable solutions. Our team of NATE-certified technicians is highly trained and experienced, capable of diagnosing and repairing furnace issues for all makes and models.

We understand the urgency of heating problems, especially during the cold season. That’s why we prioritize timely repairs, ensuring that your home is warm and cozy when you need it most. To ensure the safety, efficiency, and comfort of your home, it’s strongly recommended to have your furnace regularly inspected and maintained by a qualified HVAC technician. Make sure to ask about our convenient maintenance agreement that can prolong the life of your system, reduce the frequency of repairs, and cut down on energy costs!

Don’t hesitate to contact us for professional furnace repair in Murphysboro, IL, and Southern Illinois. Outside of our heating services, you can also count on us for air conditioning, indoor air quality, and plumbing solutions! We’re here to keep you and your family safe and comfortable no matter what.