Why Isn’t My Furnace Blowing Hot Air?

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why isn't my furnace blowing hot air

Are you having problems with your furnace? Crew Heating & Cooling can solve your issue. Call us today!

Are you wondering, “Why isn’t my furnace blowing hot air?” Even though Texas winters seldom make for unsafe temperatures, you still need a good furnace to live comfortably during the colder months.

As a trusted provider of furnace repair in Spring, TX, and the surrounding areas, Crew Heating & Cooling can help. Keep reading to learn about the most common furnace issues and how we can help solve them for a competitive price.

Thermostat Problems That Can Stop Your Furnace From Working

If you’re Googling, “furnace not blowing hot air,” consider checking the thermostat first. Thermostats can affect your furnace in several ways, but the most common include:

  • Setting change: If other people have access to your thermostat, it’s possible they lowered the setting without you knowing. If the furnace already reached the set temperature, turn up the thermostat and see if it starts blowing warm air again.
  • Battery life: Though you can connect some thermostats to your electrical system, others rely on batteries. When the battery runs low, it can’t adequately communicate with your HVAC system and your furnace might not run when it should.
  • Installation: If you have the wrong thermostat for your HVAC system or installed it incorrectly, your furnace won’t know when to turn on.
  • Affected sensor: Your thermostat needs a clear and open space to adequately sense the temperature. If you place it near windows, behind curtains, or block it with furniture, it might not read the ambient temperature correctly, thus preventing your furnace from activating even in lower temperatures.

Clogged Filter

Checking for a dirty filter is one troubleshooting solution. With a clogged filter, your furnace can’t circulate the air as well, and in some cases might overheat and stop working.

Check your filter at least once every 30 days and replace it or clean it as necessary. If you have pets that shed, smoke indoors, have respiratory issues, or live in a polluted area, you should check your air filter more frequently.

Slow Heating Times

If your furnace isn’t blowing hot hair, wait and see if it improves. It might just take a while to get to the right temperature. Furnaces can take up to 15 minutes to heat up, and while gas and oil furnaces reach the required temperature quickly, electric furnaces take the longest.

Clogged Condensate Line

If you’re wondering, “Why isn’t my furnace blowing hot air?” you may have a clogged condensate line. High-efficiency furnaces produce condensation, which drains through the condensate line to prevent the cold air from blowing back into your home.

Occasionally, the line accumulates dirt and debris, tripping a safety switch in the furnace and preventing it from igniting.

Lack of Fuel

One of the primary causes of malfunction in gas and oil furnaces and boilers is a lack of fuel. If your furnace uses oil, remember to fill the tank before it runs out. If you have a gas furnace, you shouldn’t lose access to fuel unless you have a leak, or someone shuts off the gas line.

If you have an electric furnace, check the circuit breaker to verify it’s still receiving power.

Leaking Ducts

If left unattended, your ductwork can develop leaks that make it difficult for the hot air to circulate through your home. If you’re not feeling hot air coming from your vents, it’s possible your furnace is heating the air adequately and you’re just not receiving it.

To prevent your ducts from developing leaks or blockages, schedule a professional cleaning and inspection at least every three years.

Extinguished Pilot Light

While newer furnaces are getting rid of pilot lights, many old furnaces, especially gas models, still use them. The pilot light ignites the gas, so if it goes out, you’ll have to relight it before your furnace starts heating the air.

Dirty Flame Sensor

A dirty flame sensor is one of the most common reasons for furnace malfunctions. The flame sensor is a safety feature that prevents the furnace from using fuel if it doesn’t sense a flame. Built-up dirt can affect its ability to accurately sense ignition, and it shuts off the furnace to keep you safe.

Contact Crew Heating & Cooling for Furnace Help in Houston, TX

Now that you know the answer to, “Why isn’t my furnace blowing hot air?” you’ll know when to call the experts. Whether you need a furnace replacement or routine maintenance, Crew Heating & Cooling does it all.

Our customers love our professionalism, individualized solutions, and clear communication. To book an appointment, call 832-345-9932 today. See how we can help.