How Come My Furnace is Blowing Out Cold Air?

As the temperatures drop, you rely on your furnace to keep your home warm and cozy. But what happens when your furnace starts blowing out cold air? Not only is it uncomfortable, but it can also be a sign of a more significant problem with your heating system. Here are some reasons why your furnace might be blowing out cold air, and what you can do to fix it.

1. Thermostat Issues If your thermostat is set to “on” instead of “auto,” it will blow out cold air even when the furnace is not heating. Make sure your thermostat is set correctly, and try adjusting the temperature to see if that resolves the issue. If your thermostat is malfunctioning, it may need to be repaired or replaced.
2. Dirty Air Filters Dirty air filters can block the airflow to your furnace, causing it to overheat and shut off before reaching the desired temperature. Check your air filter and replace it if it’s dirty or clogged. This is a simple fix that can prevent more significant problems down the road.
3. Pilot Light Issues If your furnace is an older model, it may have a pilot light that needs to be lit manually. Check your owner’s manual to see if this is the case for your furnace. If the pilot light is out, you can relight it by following the instructions in your manual. If the pilot light won’t stay lit, it may be time to call a professional HVAC technician.
4. Faulty Ignition System If your furnace is relatively new, it may have an electronic ignition system that could be malfunctioning. A faulty ignition system can prevent your furnace from heating correctly, resulting in cold air blowing out of your vents. Contact a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and repair this issue.
5. Blocked Air Ducts Blocked air ducts can prevent warm air from circulating throughout your home, causing your furnace to blow out cold air. Check your air ducts for any obstructions, such as furniture or debris. If your air ducts are blocked, you may need to call a professional to have them cleaned.

If you’re experiencing issues with your furnace blowing out cold air, don’t hesitate to contact a professional HVAC technician. At Seattle Heating & Cooling, we offer a range of heating and cooling services to keep your furnace running smoothly all winter long. Contact us today to schedule an appointment! 206-848-8080.