Picture this: It’s a freezing cold day, the chill seeps into your bones, and you eagerly reach for the thermostat to summon the soothing warmth of your furnace. Much to your dismay… the gentle hug of heat you expected gives way to a blast of frigid air.
In a moment like this, when outside is a snowy canvas and inside feels just as cold, you want (no, you NEED) to get your furnace back to doing its job as quickly as possible.
Well, Brad has some helpful hints that can help you reclaim the cozy sanctuary of your home.
A Likely Culprit
Thermostats are the brain of your heating system. We recommend checking here first because something as simple as an incorrect setting can make the problem appear much worse than it is.
Often, we discover that a customer’s thermostat is still on the summer setting of “cool” … or the fan has been moved to “on” instead of “auto”. These simple mistakes can lead to your furnace blowing unheated air.
Remember, setting your thermostat to “auto” ensures that the fan and furnace are in perfect sync, which will help the system warm the air when needed.
When In Doubt, Change The Filter
Air filters, when old, dirty, and clogged, can be the source of so many problems. When your air filter is choked with dust and debris, you basically have a dam in your river of air.
When the flow of air is blocked, your furnace can begin to overheat and shut down prematurely. No furnace means no heat.
Regular air filter checks and changes (every 30 to 90 days) can keep the warm air flowing unimpeded.
Out of Sight, Out of Mind
Your home’s ductwork is hidden from view and, therefore, can sometimes be forgotten when troubleshooting HVAC issues. However, they tend to be a common source of furnace issues since they can harbor leaks or blockages that lead to loss of warm air.
Similarly, the condensate lines of high-efficiency furnaces, responsible for whisking away moisture, can clog and prevent the furnace from igniting. Regular inspections are the best way to ensure you don’t fall victim to a leak.
Keeping the Flame Alive
The pilot light and flame sensors play pivotal roles in the intricate balance of a furnace’s operation.
Older furnaces rely on a pilot light, a small flame that must remain continuously lit. Pilot lights can be finicky and require re-lighting following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Modern units depend on flame sensors instead of pilot lights. If one of these sensors gets cloaked in dust, it will fail to detect the flame and thus lead to an absence of warm air. A gentle cleaning can restore them to good working order.
Passing Gas
For those with gas furnaces, a hiccup in the gas supply can be a significant concern. If the pilot light flickers out or refuses to light, it could indicate a deeper issue with the gas supply.
It’s important to remember that this is NOT a do-it-yourself fix. You need to call Brad immediately so we can ensure your family’s safety!
Electric Avenue
For those with electric furnaces, the issues can be slightly different. Electric systems rely on heat strips, which can fail and lead to the furnace blowing cold air.
These modern systems are more complex to troubleshoot and usually require a more trained, professional eye. Call us and Brad will check the unit’s board, heat strips, and other components to figure out the issue.
Heat Pump Challenges
Heat pumps operate efficiently in moderate climates but can struggle in colder temperatures. When the mercury dips below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, heat pumps may not provide sufficient warmth.
When this occurs, the best option is to employ some form of emergency heat. Depending on various variables inside your home, we recommend an air handler with heat strips or a supplemental gas furnace. Understanding and setting your thermostat to manage this switch is crucial for maintaining consistent warmth.
When Furnaces Feel Their Years
As with all things, age takes its toll on furnaces. A furnace nearing or beyond its 15th birthday might start showing signs of wear and tear, leading to overheating and inefficiencies.
Regular maintenance can prolong any HVAC system’s life, so Brad highly recommends an ongoing maintenance plan.
Eventually, even the most well-cared-for furnace may need to bid farewell. If that is the situation you find yourself in, give us a call. Brad will determine your needs and find options to restore your comfort without breaking your budget.
The Annual Tune-Up: Preventative Magic
The most conscientious homeowners know the value of annual furnace maintenance. Skipping this ritual can leave your furnace vulnerable to surprises come the first cold snap.
Brad’s Heating & Air will thoroughly check all pertinent components of your HVAC system and identify any issues. By addressing these problems sooner than later, we can help you avoid a frigid disaster.
Better to pay a small fee for maintenance than be faced with the hefty costs of replacing an entire HVAC system prematurely.
Know Your Limits
Some furnace issues, like thermostat settings and dirty filters, fall within the realm of DIY. When you face more significant issues, you should turn on the “bat signal” and let your trusty friend Brad step in.
Gas supply issues, complex mechanical failures, or problems with intricate parts of your HVAC system require a trained professional. Ensuring the safety of your home and family is the top priority, and we take that responsibility very seriously at Brad’s Heating & Air.
Final Thoughts
Ensuring your furnace is in good working condition is as important as stocking up on firewood or warm winter sweaters. A well-maintained furnace not only guarantees warmth but also peace of mind.
If the air blowing from your vents this winter is not as warm as you’d like, there’s no need to fret. Just call on Brad’s Heating & Air, and let our team of experts return the cozy to your home. Call (501) 330-8066 for prompt, reliable furnace care today!