# Why Is My Electric Heater Blowing Cold Air?
Enjoying the cozy winter atmosphere can quickly turn into a chilly nightmare if your electric heater starts blowing cold air instead of providing the warmth you need. But before you rush to buy a new one, let’s explore why this happens and how you can fix it yourself without breaking the bank.
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Why is my electric heater blowing cold air?
While a heater that blows cold air might seem useless, it doesn’t necessarily mean it needs to be replaced. In fact, most cases can be easily resolved with a few simple adjustments. However, if you’re unsure or uncomfortable handling the issue yourself, it’s best to call a professional.
In most situations, your heating system simply requires some troubleshooting. Before you consider alternatives, here are a few things you can check to get your heater back on track.
1. Dirty Air Filters
Cleaning your heater might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it’s essential for its proper functioning. Oftentimes, electric heaters blow cold air when their filters are clogged. Start by turning off your heater and inspecting the filters. If you notice a thick layer of dust, it’s likely the cause of the problem. Clogged vents restrict ventilation and freeze the coils, which further inhibits airflow, resulting in cold air emission. Try replacing the filters, and if that doesn’t work, explore the alternatives discussed below.
2. Thermostat Settings
If your electric heater blows both cold and warm air at different times, take a look at your thermostat settings. Most heaters have dual settings, and leaving the fan setting to ‘on’ throughout the day can lead to malfunctions. The furnace inside the equipment needs to heat up before the fan can emit warm air. If the furnace is cold, it won’t be able to generate warm air. To resolve this issue, set your blower to ‘auto’ so that the fan only operates when the furnace is hot. The instruction manual usually provides details on adjusting the fan speed without affecting other settings. Additionally, give your electric furnace a few minutes to heat up before determining if it’s still emitting cold air.
3. Furnace Problems
Similar to any other machinery, an electric heater operates according to certain principles. Just as an overheated smartphone battery can cause problems, an overheated furnace can also lead to issues. If your heater stops blowing air after a short period or only emits cold air, it’s wise to check the furnace. Automatic limit switches are integrated into heaters to protect them from malfunctioning due to overheating. If you feel that your heater isn’t generating any warmth at all, it’s best to have it serviced by professionals, especially if replacing the filters doesn’t solve the problem.
4. Ductwork
Ductwork issues don’t require disassembling your heater or its electric panel. If there are leaks in the ducts, your indoor space may not receive proper heating. Openings in the vents can allow cold air to flow out, making the room colder despite the heater being turned on. Make sure there are no openings in the vents throughout your house to prevent this from happening.
If your heater is turning your winter nights into shiver fests, try checking it for the aforementioned problems. In most cases, heaters blowing cold air don’t require costly repairs. Hiring a technician should be your last resort. However, if you’ve tried everything and the issue persists, it’s time to call a professional. Remember, working with electrical equipment can be dangerous, especially when it involves hardware issues. Always take the necessary precautions, such as turning off the current at the fusebox, before attempting any repairs.
For more information on troubleshooting and resolving common issues, visit 5 WS. Stay warm!
