Have A Furnace That's Not Making Very Hot Air? Try These Simple Fixes

Has your furnace run into a problem where it's not blowing hot air like it used to? If so, you may not be completely out of luck. This is a problem that you can try fixing on your own by cleaning out the blower system. Here are some helpful tips to get this job done.

Swap Out The Furnace's Filter

The very first thing you should do is swap out the furnace's air filter, since it's the easiest solution that could fix the problem. If you can't remember when the air filter was last changed, chances are that it is filthy and completely covered in debris. Put in a brand new filter, and the air will not have any obstruction going through your air ducts. This could actually make the difference between feeling hot air and warm air.

Clean The Furnace's Blower Cage

There is a portion of your furnace located before the air filter known as the furnace's blower cage. This is where the motor and fan blades are located that push all that warm air into your home. It's possible that the blower cage is so dirty that it is causing a problem with the furnace, such as overheating that causes the fan to not stay on.

What you'll want to do to clean the furnace's blower cage is start by shutting down the furnace, then access the inside of the cage to clean off the fan. You can remove all the debris on the blades by using rags, a bucket of water, and a small scrub brush. It will help to dampen the rags in the water, and then wipe off the fan blades and the sides of your furnace's blower cage. Then dry off the surface using clean rags that are dry. Use a small scrub brush to get within parts of the fan blade that are hard to reach with your hands. Close the access panel, and you'll be good to go.

Clean The Furnace's Air Vent Covers

It's also possible that you have a problem with colder air due to blockages in your ductwork. Look at the vent covers over the ductwork, including the return air vents. If these vents are covered in dust, there may be a problem with air being able to find its way into your room or back into the HVAC system to be heated again. Try cleaning the vent covers and see if that makes a difference.

To learn more, talk with a professional who specializes in furnace services.