When cold weather arrives, your furnace becomes the most important appliance in your home. But winter is also the time when heating systems work the hardest making breakdowns, strange noises, and heating issues more likely. Knowing how to handle common furnace problems can help you stay warm, prevent major damage, and save money on unexpected repair bills. AirForce One Heating & Cooling would like to cover some of the common winter furnace issues and how to address them safely and effectively.
Furnace Won’t Turn On
Few things are more frustrating than a furnace that won’t start on a freezing day. Before assuming the worst, check the basics. Ensure it is set to heat and the temperature is above room temp. Replace batteries if needed. Or a tripped circuit breaker can shut down your furnace. Some furnaces have panels that must be fully closed for the system to run. If none of these quick fixes work, a professional should inspect the system for ignition issues, control board failures, or wiring problems.
Weak or No Airflow
If warm air isn’t coming from the vents, your home will never reach a comfortable temperature. Check and replace the air filter. Clogged filters are the primary cause of poor airflow in winter. Make sure vents are open as closed or blocked vents restrict circulation. Inspect the blower motor if the motor is running weakly or not at all, it may require professional repair or replacement. If airflow remains low, you may have duct leaks or blower assembly problems that require technician service.
Furnace Blowing Cold Air
When warm air turns cold, the cause can vary from minor to serious. Check the thermostat fan setting and make sure it’s set to AUTO, not ON. Inspect the flame if the burner doesn’t ignite, the furnace will only push unheated air. Look for a dirty flame sensor. This common issue causes the burner to shut off quickly. A technician can clean sensors, inspect burners, and diagnose ignition problems safely.
Strange Noises Coming from the Furnace
Winter often brings new noises, but not all are harmless. Some of the common noises that furnaces can develop are:
• Banging/booming: Delayed ignition or dirty burners
• Whistling: Airflow blockage or duct leaks
• Grinding or scraping: Worn-out blower bearings
• Squealing: Loose or damaged belt
Turn the furnace off and schedule repairs quickly. Loud mechanical noises can lead to bigger damage if ignored.
Furnace Short Cycling
Short cycling wastes energy and puts stress on your furnace. When a furnace is short cycling you will want to replace the air filter, ensure the thermostat is working correctly and check for overheating. If the problem persists, you may have a failing blower motor, incorrect furnace sizing or a flame sensor problem. A technician should diagnose and correct the underlying cause.
Burning Smells or Odd Odors
Winter is prime time for furnace smells. Some are normal others are not.
• Dusty smell: Normal for the first cycle of the season
• Electrical or burning rubber smells: Turn off immediately, possible wiring or motor issues
• Rotten egg smell: Possible gas leak. Leave the home and call the gas company
• Musty smell: Moisture or mold in ducts
When in doubt, shut the system off and call a professional.
When to Call a Professional HVAC Contractor
DIY troubleshooting helps with minor issues, but winter furnace problems often require expert attention. Call an HVAC technician if you notice:
• Repeated Cycling
• Water Leaks
• Gas Odors
• Loud Mechanical Noises
• Weak or Uneven Heating
• Persistent Cold Air
Fast repairs help prevent total system breakdowns during the coldest days of the year.
Furnace Maintenance, Repair & Replacements in Liberty Lake, Cheney, Airway Heights, and Medical Lake & Greater Spokane, Washington
Taking quick action when furnace problems arise will keep your home safe, efficient, and comfortable all season long. A well-maintained furnace not only avoids emergency breakdowns it also saves money and extends your system’s lifespan. When you need furnace repairs, contact AirForce One Heating & Cooling today.
