Heating Repair FAQs
Furnaces blowing cold air, burning smells, and short-cycling — answers to the heating repair questions we hear most across the Highland Lakes and Burnet County.
Heating repair questions we hear most
Find answers to common plumbing and HVAC questions from our expert team.
A furnace blowing cold air is typically caused by a faulty ignitor, a bad flame sensor, a tripped high-limit switch, or a thermostat issue. The high-limit switch is a safety device that shuts off the burner if the heat exchanger overheats, often due to restricted airflow from a dirty filter. We diagnose the root cause and fix it properly so you're not dealing with the same problem again next week.
A brief burning smell when you first turn on your heater after months of not using it is usually just dust burning off the heat exchanger and is normal. However, if the smell persists, smells like plastic or electrical burning, or is accompanied by unusual noises, shut the system off and call us immediately. These could indicate a serious issue like an overheating motor or electrical problem.
We recommend annual maintenance before the heating season begins, ideally in the fall. A tune-up includes cleaning the burners, checking the heat exchanger for cracks, testing the ignition system, verifying gas pressure, inspecting the flue, and checking all safety controls. Regular maintenance prevents breakdowns, catches carbon monoxide risks early, and keeps your manufacturer warranty valid.
Short-cycling—where your heater repeatedly starts and stops—is usually caused by an overheating heat exchanger (often from a dirty filter), a malfunctioning flame sensor, or a thermostat issue. It wastes energy, puts excessive wear on your system, and can lead to premature failure. This should be addressed promptly, as it can also indicate a cracked heat exchanger, which is a carbon monoxide safety concern.
Yes, our technicians are trained and experienced with all types of residential heating systems, including gas furnaces, electric furnaces, heat pumps, and dual-fuel hybrid systems. We work on all major brands and carry common replacement parts on our trucks for faster repairs.
Have a question that's not listed here? Give us a call and we'll be happy to help.
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