Common Late-Winter Furnace Problems and How to Fix Them
Winter in Ankeny can feel like it lasts forever, and by the time February rolls around, your furnace has already worked hard for months. With this extended use comes increased wear and tear, which can lead to common furnace problems that many homeowners experience during the final stretch of winter.
At Obsidian Heating & Cooling, we’ve seen it all—strange noises, weak airflow, and even complete breakdowns. The good news? Many of these issues can be fixed with a little maintenance or professional help. Here are the most common late-winter furnace problems and how to address them before they turn into a bigger headache.
1. Weak or Uneven Heating
The Problem:
You set the thermostat, but some rooms feel like a sauna while others feel like a freezer. Uneven heating is one of the most frustrating furnace issues and often becomes more noticeable as the season drags on.
The Fix:
Check and replace your air filter – A clogged filter can block airflow, making it harder for warm air to reach every room.
Ensure vents are open and unobstructed – Furniture, rugs, or curtains blocking vents can cause heat distribution issues.
Inspect your ductwork – Leaky or dirty ducts can reduce airflow and cause uneven heating. A professional duct inspection can help identify and fix the issue.
If the problem persists, it could be a sign of a failing blower motor or a system that’s struggling to keep up with demand. Our team at Obsidian Heating & Cooling can diagnose the issue and recommend the best solution.
2. Short Cycling (Furnace Turning On and Off Frequently)
The Problem:
Your furnace kicks on, runs for a few minutes, then shuts off—only to repeat the cycle again minutes later. This frequent on-and-off behavior, known as short cycling, can put unnecessary stress on your furnace and lead to higher energy bills.
The Fix:
Check the air filter – A dirty filter restricts airflow and can cause the system to overheat, triggering a safety shutdown.
Inspect the thermostat placement – If your thermostat is too close to a heat source (like a sunny window), it may signal the furnace to turn off too soon.
Have a professional inspect the system – Short cycling could be caused by a malfunctioning flame sensor, overheating issues, or an improperly sized furnace. If you’re unsure, it’s best to call an HVAC expert.
3. Strange Noises (Banging, Rattling, Whistling, or Grinding)
The Problem:
Your furnace has started making noises that sound like something out of a horror movie. While some sounds are normal, loud or unusual noises often indicate a mechanical issue.
The Fix:
Banging or booming noise? This could be a delayed ignition issue, where gas builds up before igniting. This needs professional attention immediately.
Rattling? Loose components or a failing blower motor could be the culprit. Tightening connections or lubricating moving parts may help.
Whistling or high-pitched screeching? This often points to an airflow issue or a worn-out blower belt. Replacing the belt or cleaning out blockages in ductwork can help.
If your furnace is making noises you’ve never heard before, it’s time to schedule an inspection with Obsidian Heating & Cooling to prevent further damage.
4. Furnace Blowing Cold Air
The Problem:
You expect warm air, but instead, your furnace is blowing out cold or lukewarm air. Not exactly what you want during an Iowa winter!
The Fix:
Check the thermostat settings – Make sure it’s set to “heat” and not accidentally switched to “fan” mode.
Replace the air filter – A clogged filter can cause overheating, forcing the furnace to shut down the burner while still running the fan.
Inspect the pilot light – If your furnace has a pilot light, ensure it’s lit. If it won’t stay lit, you may have a faulty thermocouple.
Call for professional service – If none of the above fixes work, there could be a bigger issue with your gas supply, burner, or heat exchanger. A professional diagnosis is the safest option.
5. Rising Energy Bills Without Explanation
The Problem:
Your heating bill has been climbing, even though you haven’t changed the thermostat settings. This is often a sign that your furnace is working harder than necessary due to inefficiency.
The Fix:
Schedule a furnace tune-up – A mid-winter maintenance check can improve efficiency, catch minor issues, and keep your system running smoothly.
Seal drafts in your home – Cold air sneaking in through doors and windows makes your furnace work harder. Adding weather stripping or caulking leaks can help.
Consider upgrading your system – If your furnace is more than 15 years old and struggling to keep up, replacing it with a more energy-efficient model may save you money in the long run.
Don’t Wait for a Breakdown—Call Obsidian Heating & Cooling Today!
Late-winter furnace issues can be frustrating, but they don’t have to leave you in the cold. Many common problems have simple solutions, and catching them early can prevent costly repairs or system failures.
At Obsidian Heating & Cooling, we’re here to help Ankeny homeowners keep their homes warm and comfortable all winter long. Whether you need a routine tune-up, a repair, or a full system replacement, our expert technicians have you covered.
Don’t wait until your furnace quits—contact us today to schedule your mid-winter maintenance check and keep your home cozy through the rest of the season!
