Ross and Witmer From time to time, a furnace can blow cold air. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you have a serious problem. There are many reasons a furnace can blow cold air. Several of the fixes are quite simple. Others might require the help of an HVAC-system professional.
Nothing to Worry About
Cold air coming out of the registers can be quite normal if you haven’t used your furnace in awhile. Warm air should begin coming out of the registers a minute or two after you’ve turned on the furnace. While your furnace hasn’t been used, cool air has settled in the ducts. The furnace has to push the cold air out of the ducts before it can start delivering heated air.
What About the Thermostat?
Sometimes the furnace itself isn’t the culprit. It’s the thermostat. Is thermostat set on “on” rather than “auto”? Also check the temperature setting. Is it higher than the room temperature? Make adjustments as needed.
Trouble With the Pilot Light?
If you have an older gas furnace, the pilot light may have gone out. Most furnaces manufactured today have electronic ignition, so this isn’t a problem with newer furnaces. But if your furnace does, indeed, have a pilot lite, make sure it isn’t out. If it is, relight it. If it goes out again, call your heating professional. A draft may be the issue, or the assembly may need to be cleaned.
The easiest way to ensure that your furnace goes on and heats your home the way it’s intended to is by making sure you get regular maintenance. A fall tune-up is essential. If you haven’t gotten yours yet, now’s the time. Contact Ross & Witmer. We serve clients throughout the Charlotte area.