As the crisp autumn air rolls into Madison, WI, and surrounding areas like Fitchburg, Middleton, Waunakee, Verona, and Monona, it’s a clear sign that winter isn’t far behind. Before the temperatures dip below freezing, now is the perfect time to check your furnace and ensure it’s ready for the cold months ahead. At Shackelford Heating & Cooling, we always recommend scheduling a furnace inspection in the fall to avoid unexpected breakdowns and cold, uncomfortable nights.
If your furnace isn’t blowing hot air, or if it’s showing signs of inefficiency, taking care of it before winter can save you from dealing with an emergency call when temperatures are well below zero. Here’s why it’s crucial to check your furnace now and some troubleshooting tips if it’s not performing at its best.
Why Fall Is the Best Time for Furnace Maintenance
As fall temperatures start to drop, your furnace will soon become your home’s most important appliance. Ensuring it’s functioning properly before winter hits means you’ll be prepared when the cold settles in for good.
Here’s why early furnace checks are essential:
- Avoid Emergency Repairs in Winter: One of the worst situations is having your furnace quit on the coldest day of the year. By taking proactive steps now, you’ll prevent emergencies when HVAC companies are the busiest.
- Energy Efficiency: A well-maintained furnace runs more efficiently, keeping your energy bills lower throughout the winter. If your furnace isn’t working efficiently, it could be working overtime to heat your home, costing you more money each month.
- Extend Furnace Lifespan: Regular maintenance ensures that your furnace continues to operate smoothly for years to come. Ignoring small issues can lead to major repairs or even a complete furnace replacement down the road.
- Safety: Furnaces that aren’t working properly can lead to safety concerns like gas leaks or carbon monoxide poisoning. An annual check will help ensure that your system is operating safely.
Common Reasons Your Furnace Isn’t Blowing Hot Air
If you’ve noticed that your furnace isn’t blowing hot air or isn’t performing as it should, it’s important to troubleshoot the issue before the winter freeze sets in. Here are some of the most common causes for a furnace to stop producing warm air:
1. Thermostat Settings
This may seem basic, but your thermostat settings could be the reason your furnace isn’t blowing hot air. Make sure your thermostat is set to “HEAT” mode and that the temperature is set higher than the current room temperature. If your thermostat is battery-operated, check that the batteries aren’t dead.
For those who have programmable or smart thermostats, ensure that the programming hasn’t been altered and that the schedule is correctly set for the fall and winter months.
2. Clogged Air Filters
One of the most common causes of a furnace blowing cold air is a dirty or clogged air filter. When the filter is full of dust and debris, it restricts airflow, which can cause your furnace to overheat and shut down as a safety precaution.
To avoid this, change your air filter regularly, especially before the heating season begins. A clean filter helps your furnace run efficiently and ensures warm air is properly circulated throughout your home.
3. Pilot Light or Ignition Issues
If your furnace isn’t blowing hot air, it could be due to a problem with the pilot light (in older furnaces) or the ignition system (in newer models). For furnaces with a pilot light, ensure it’s lit. If it’s gone out, you can try to relight it following the manufacturer’s instructions. However, if it doesn’t stay lit, it may indicate a larger issue that requires professional attention.
For newer furnaces with an electronic ignition, an issue with the ignition system may prevent the furnace from generating heat, and this will need to be addressed by a technician.
4. Tripped Circuit Breaker
Sometimes, the problem can be as simple as a tripped circuit breaker. If your furnace won’t turn on or isn’t blowing hot air, check your breaker box to ensure the furnace’s breaker is in the “ON” position. If it’s tripped, reset it and see if the furnace begins to function normally.
If the breaker continues to trip, it’s a sign of an underlying electrical issue, and you should contact a professional for furnace repair.
5. Blower Motor Issues
The blower motor is responsible for distributing the warm air throughout your home. If the blower motor isn’t working correctly, your furnace may be producing heat, but it won’t be able to push the warm air through the ducts. This could be due to a malfunction in the motor, or it may indicate that the motor needs cleaning or lubrication.
6. Leaky Ductwork
If your furnace is running but your home still feels cold, the issue could be with your ductwork. Leaky or damaged ducts can allow the hot air to escape before it reaches your living spaces, causing your furnace to work harder without keeping your home warm. Having your ductwork inspected and sealed can greatly improve your heating system’s efficiency.
How Shackelford Heating & Cooling Can Help
At Shackelford Heating & Cooling, we understand how important it is for Madison-area homeowners to have a reliable and efficient furnace during the long winter months. That’s why we offer comprehensive furnace maintenance and repair services to keep your heating system in top shape.
Why Choose Shackelford Heating & Cooling?
- Expert Technicians: Our licensed and experienced technicians have the knowledge and skills to diagnose and repair all types of furnace issues. Whether it’s a minor repair or a complete furnace replacement, we’ve got you covered.
- Prompt Service: We pride ourselves on offering quick, reliable service to keep your home warm and comfortable. Don’t wait for an emergency—schedule your furnace check today.
- Preventative Maintenance: Routine maintenance is key to preventing breakdowns and ensuring your furnace runs efficiently all winter long. Our technicians will thoroughly inspect your system, clean components, and address any potential issues before they turn into costly repairs.
- Energy Efficiency: A well-maintained furnace not only keeps you warm but also helps lower your energy bills. We’ll help optimize your system’s performance so you can stay comfortable without overspending.
Don’t Wait for a Winter Breakdown
As the temperatures continue to drop this fall, now is the time to ensure your furnace is ready to tackle the winter months ahead. Whether you need routine maintenance, furnace repair, or a complete furnace replacement, Shackelford Heating & Cooling is your go-to HVAC provider in Madison, WI, and surrounding areas.
Contact us today to schedule your furnace check and avoid the stress of a mid-winter emergency. Stay warm, stay safe, and trust the local experts at Shackelford Heating & Cooling!
