Why Is My Furnace Blowing Cold Air?

As fall and winter approach, the last thing we want is for our furnace to start blowing cold air. Especially here in Cloquet and Northeastern Minnesota where lows reach a frigid 4 degrees F. 

It’s not only uncomfortable, but it can also be a sign of a more serious issue. Don’t panic, though. In this blog post, we’ll discuss why your furnace may be blowing cold air and how you can fix i.

Thermostat Setting

The first thing you want to check is your thermostat setting. If your thermostat is set to “cool” instead of “heat,” you’ll want to switch it back to heat mode. Check the temperature setting as well, and make sure it’s higher than the current temperature in your home.

Dirty Air Filters

Dirty air filters can cause a variety of problems for your furnace, including blowing cold air. When the air filter becomes clogged with dirt and debris, it restricts airflow, causing your furnace to work harder than it should. This can lead to the furnace overheating and shutting off. Make sure to change your air filter regularly, ideally every three months.

The Pilot Light Won’t Turn On

If you have a gas furnace, a common reason for blowing cold air is a faulty pilot light. The pilot light is the small flame that ignites the gas burner. If the pilot light is out or not working efficiently, it won’t be able to ignite the gas burner, resulting in cold airflow. If you’re not comfortable with turning on your pilot light, give us a call and we can help.

Faulty Ignition Sensor

The ignition sensor, or flame sensor, is a safety device that ensures the gas burner ignites correctly. If the ignition sensor is dirty, damaged, or not working, it won’t be able to detect the flame and will shut off the gas supply. This will stop the furnace from producing heat. In most cases, it’ll need to be professionally cleaned or replaced.

Ductwork Leaks

Air duct leaks can cause cold air to circulate throughout your home. The furnace will continue to run and produce hot air, but it won’t be able to reach your living spaces. You can visually inspect your ductwork for signs of wear and tear. Alternatively, you can call us for air duct repair.

Need Help to Fix Your Furnace? Call Us!

A furnace blowing cold air can be an indication of various issues, many of which can be resolved with basic maintenance. Checking your thermostat setting and replacing your air filters regularly can help. You can also inspect the pilot light, clean the ignition sensor, and check for ductwork leaks.

If you’ve done everything you can and still experience issues, contact us for professional, courteous furnace repair. We back our furnace services with a 60-day Done Right Promise™. With a little effort and regular maintenance, you can make sure your furnace doesn’t leave you in the cold during the colder months.