Nov 14, 2024 | Michael Jestadt

Why is My Furnace Not Blowing Hot Air?

Waking up in the middle of the winter nights due to the temperature issues can be scary for most of us. We assume that the device is running smoothly, but it is not! On in-depth observation, we find that the furnace is not pumping any heat. It is the most common problem we all face, and we need immediate backup to enjoy a cozy environment inside our home. However, the technician’s approach could be late sometimes due to the weather conditions or the odd times. Meanwhile, you can troubleshoot the reason for “Why is my furnace not blowing hot air?” Let’s get started!

Reasons for a Furnace Not Blowing Hot Air

1. Check for Thermostat

Thermostat issues are the most common ones in heating systems. Check your thermostat for any underlying issues. The following can be one of them:

  • Temperature is set low: Most of us unknowingly set it to lower temperatures, or a child touching the wrong buttons can cause the temperature to change. Incorrect temperature settings can also cause your furnace not to blow hot air.
  • Fan set to “on” instead of “auto”: Adjust the fan to auto so that it pumps hot air when the furnace is heating and cold air when it’s not. It also turns off the fan automatically when not in use.
  • Check for Battery Level: The thermostat works on its own battery. So, check for the battery, whether it is low or dead, and replace it if needed.

2. Patience is the Key

If you have a large home, it takes longer to send cold air outside and warm up the living space. It is also normal for a furnace to blow cold air in the beginning. So, you have to wait a bit to experience a comfortable environment.

3. Dirty Filters

Your furnace accumulates dirt, dust, and allergens over time. It needs clean air to circulate hot air efficiently. Check the filters; if they are dirty and clogged, replace them. Make sure to change the filters every six months for better heating.

4. Check the High Limit Switch

A dirty filter can cause some parts of your HVAC system to break down. If your system overheats frequently, it damages the high-limit switch. This is important because if it stops working, your HVAC system will assume that the furnace is too hot. So, the fan runs continuously to cool it down, blowing cold air. It can be difficult to locate the high-limit switch, so it is advisable to call an HVAC expert for help.

5. Check the Condensate Line

Condensate lines are key parts of an HVAC system that need regular maintenance. During hot months, these lines can eventually accumulate dirt and dust if they are not regularly maintained. If they are clogged, the float switch will trip, shutting down the system. Make sure that they are clean for better heating.

6. Clean the Flame Sensor

If you are not getting enough heat, also check whether the flame sensor is dirty. If it is dirty, it shows false readings and sends out cold air. It is very easy to clean a flame sensor by yourself. Just turn off the power, remove it, clean it with a cloth, and put it back in the same place. If done regularly, it can keep your HVAC in better running condition.

7. Check the Ductwork

Sometimes, faulty ductwork can also result in poor heating. Check the ductwork and make sure that it does not have any holes in it. Dust and debris can also cause the system to overheat and pump out cold air.

8. Check the Energy Sources

There are different furnace systems that run on different energy sources. Many of us fail to notice, but they are easy to fix.

  • Oil-powered Furnaces: Check for the oil level in the tank.
  • Electric Furnaces: If it is an electric one, check for the breaker panel switch.
  • Gas-powered Furnaces: Check whether the gas valve is open or not and the gas level.

9. Mix of Outside Air

The ducts that carry warm air through your house can wear out over time. They are often placed outside the heated areas of your home and are exposed to temperature changes throughout the year. These changes can create weak duct spots, eventually leading to leaks. So, cold air from outside can enter the ducts. This outside air cools down the warm air coming from your furnace, so cooler air ends up blowing into your living spaces.

10. Pilot Light Issues

If your gas company has recently maintained the lines, it might cause your pilot light to go out. If you have a gas furnace, it has a pilot light. Older furnaces are more likely to have this issue of pilot light being blown out. Even someone walking quickly near the furnace can cause the issue.

11. Burner Issues

When the gas burner is clogged, it doesn’t let any fuel burn. So, there will be no heat, and your unit’s fan will run, which results in cold air inside the house. So, check the burner and clean it for better heating. Replace it if required.

12. Wrong Sized Furnace

Having the right furnace size is important, especially as the colder months arrive. If your new furnace isn’t blowing hot air, it might be too small for your home. A furnace that’s not the right size can also blow cold air. If it’s too small or too large, you may also have issues with how well it heats and how efficiently it works.

Troubleshooting Tips

Below, we have mentioned some troubleshooting tips if you are experiencing common furnace problems:

  • Check the fan settings to ensure they are in auto mode.
  • Ensure proper temperature setting in the thermostat
  • Check the batteries in the thermostat and replace them if needed
  • Hire an HVAC expert to clean the parts susceptible to dust and dirt.
  • Check the gas valve and ensure it is clean.
  • Turn off the blower motor panel after maintenance.

Conclusion

Be careful when repairing any complicated appliance, especially your HVAC system. HVAC systems have many important parts that control fuel burning in your home. DIY is not recommended to handle furnace problems beyond basic maintenance. These units use a lot of electricity and gas and can be dangerous. If you are unsure of yourself or need help regarding furnace maintenance, please contact Smart Heating and Air Conditioning. Our team is trained and equipped to deal with problems in your HVAC system. Book an appointment with us now.

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