Why Is My Furnace Blowing Cold Air?
- Air 1 Cooling & Heating
- Oct 29
- 3 min read
When the temperature drops in Gettysburg, PA, the last thing you want is a furnace that’s blowing cold air instead of warm, cozy heat. It’s a common issue during the winter months, but it doesn’t always mean your furnace is broken beyond repair. Before you panic, there are a few possible reasons why this might be happening — and some may even have simple fixes.
Let’s break down the most common causes of a furnace blowing cold air, and what you can do to fix it.
1. Your Thermostat Is Set Incorrectly
It might sound obvious, but thermostat settings are often the first culprit. If your fan is set to “On” instead of “Auto,” your furnace blower runs constantly, even when the furnace isn’t actively heating. That means you’ll feel cool air between heating cycles.
Quick Fix: Set your thermostat fan to “Auto.” This ensures the blower only runs when the furnace is producing heat.
2. The Pilot Light or Ignition System Has Failed
Older furnaces rely on a pilot light, while newer models use an electronic ignition system. If either fails, your burners won’t ignite, and the air coming from your vents will stay cold.
Solution: Check to see if your pilot light is out (if applicable) and relight it according to your manufacturer’s instructions. If you have an electronic ignition system, it’s best to call a heating repair technician to safely inspect and fix it.
3. Your Furnace Is Overheating and Shutting Down
If your furnace overheats, it can trigger a safety limit switch that shuts off the burners, leaving only the fan running (which blows cool air). This often happens because of restricted airflow, usually caused by dirty filters.
What to Do:
Replace your air filter if it’s dirty or clogged.
Check vents and registers to ensure nothing is blocking airflow.If the problem continues, a professional heating repair service can inspect for deeper airflow or motor issues.
4. The Flame Sensor Needs Cleaning
The flame sensor detects whether the burner flame is present. If it’s dirty, it might incorrectly signal the system to shut off the gas even though ignition occurred. You’ll get cold air as a result.
Fix: Cleaning or replacing a flame sensor is a quick job for a licensed HVAC technician — it’s one of the most common furnace repairs in Gettysburg homes.
5. Ductwork Leaks Are Letting Heat Escape
If your ducts are leaking, warm air may be escaping before it reaches your vents, especially in older homes around Adams County and the Gettysburg area. That can make it seem like your furnace is blowing cold air even though it’s producing heat.
Solution: Have your ducts inspected for leaks or poor insulation. Sealing ducts is an affordable heating repair service that can also improve energy efficiency.
6. The Furnace Needs a Professional Tune-Up
Sometimes, cold air is a symptom of multiple small issues — a weak blower motor, dirty burners, or poor calibration. A seasonal heating tune-up can restore efficiency, prevent breakdowns, and catch small problems before they become major repairs.
A well-maintained furnace not only keeps you warm but also helps reduce heating costs.
When to Call for Heating Repair in Gettysburg, PA
If your furnace continues to blow cold air after checking the basics, it’s time to call the experts. Furnace issues can worsen quickly if left unchecked — especially during freezing Gettysburg winters.
At Air 1 Cooling & Heating, we specialize in heating repair services in Gettysburg, PA and nearby areas. Our certified HVAC technicians can diagnose your system, restore your heat, and make sure your home stays comfortable all season long.
✅ Fast and reliable heating repair
✅ Furnace tune-ups and maintenance
✅ Emergency HVAC service available in Gettysburg, PA
Don’t Freeze This Winter — Get Your Heat Back Fast
If your furnace is blowing cold air, don’t wait for it to fix itself. Contact Air 1 Cooling & Heating today for trusted, local heating repair in Gettysburg, PA.
📞 Call now (717) 680-1850 or schedule service online to get your furnace running right again.
Need HVAC Service? We serve Gettysburg and these surrounding areas:
Hunterstown HVAC Service
LIttlestown HVAC Service
McSherrystown HVAC Service
New Oxford HVAC Service
Ortanna HVAC Service
