Heating sources in the Dallas area mainly consist of electric and natural gas systems, although a small percentage are using oil furnaces, propane tanks, or geothermal systems. The majority who use electrical systems use a heat pump, which typically produces cooler warm air than oil or gas furnaces. Why your heater would blow cold air depends on the type of heating system you have.
Before calling for a heater repair, read through the possible reasons below to determine if your issue just requires a quick fix you can resolve on your own. After trying these simple checks, call the professionals if your heating system still isn’t working in your Carrollton home.
Thermostat Issues
Look at your thermostat to see if it is set to “on” or “auto.” If your furnace fan is set to “on,” the furnace will continually blow air close to room temperature when the heat is not running, making the air you feel from the vents much cooler. Check to make sure that the thermostat fan is set to “auto.”
You’ll also want to evaluate where your thermostat is located. If the thermostat is near or in an area of the home that is warmer, such as a room with a fireplace, the thermostat will read the ambient temperature of that room.
It will assume the entire house is warm enough, leaving other areas of the home too cold when it doesn’t run. A professional may recommend moving your thermostat to a hallway or different area of the home to ensure it is reading temperature properly so that it will kick on when needed. Sometimes, thermostats are worn or faulty and need replacement altogether. Give us a call if you think you may need a new thermostat and we’ll help you pick out one perfect for your home.
Dirty Air Filter
Filters should frequently be changed. A dirty filter will restrict airflow through your heat pump system or cause a furnace to overheat, triggering safety features that turn off furnace burners. Changing the air filter and restarting the system may resolve the issue.
No Pilot Light
The buildup of dirt or grunge around the intake valve may be restricting oxygen flow. Clean around the intake valve and the pilot light to ensure oxygen and gas can pass efficiently, and try lighting the pilot again. If none of these solutions work, your thermocouple may need adjustment. This is often best handled by a professional.
Tripped Breaker
Most modern home heating systems require some electricity. If you are noticing cold air where it should be warm, one of the first things you can check is to look for a tripped breaker. A tripped breaker could be why your heater would blow cold air, as the fan continues to blow even though no air is being heated.
Unplug appliances and system units that share the same circuit, and flip the breaker back to its proper position. Next, turn your heat back on, and see if it blows warm air. If the heating system still acts up, give Lex Air Conditioning and Heating a call, and we will come out to determine the issue.
Duct Issues
Warm air starts at a furnace but must travel through a system of air ducts to reach you. Ducts experience wear and tear just like any other part of the home with the strain and stress of continually changing air temperatures and frequent use.
Warm air may escape or become cooler through broken or damaged ducts or ducts that have not been adequately maintained. Cold air from crawlspaces and attics will enter air ducts through holes, cracks, or leaks in the seals.
Dirty ducts can also sometimes cause heating issues. An HVAC professional technician can check your ducts for you. If their company does not offer duct cleaning and repair, they often can refer you to a reputable service professional who does.
Other Reasons Your Heater Would Blow Cold Air
Other causes of malfunctioning heat systems are drain line clogs, the need for a heater tune-up, or snow and debris piled against or on top of an outdoor unit. Compressor valves could also be an issue, or your unit could be going completely haywire and functioning in air conditioner mode.
Most HVAC issues can be resolved with a few simple checks, or call a professional if you are the least bit uncomfortable checking anything yourself. For more information on heater repair, check out Lex Air Conditioning and Heating’s solutions or simply give us a call.
