Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning Blog

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In Colorado, where we have a short cooling season and unpredictable spring weather, scheduling AC tune-ups can be a bit challenging. The demand for tune-ups rises as the heat of summer approaches, making it difficult to get everyone in for maintenance before the scorching temperatures hit. However, it’s still crucial to prioritize having your AC tuned up, even if it means getting it done during the summer months.

Why is an AC tune-up important?

Well, there are several benefits that come with regular maintenance. First and foremost, a tune-up can significantly improve your AC’s efficiency, helping you save on energy bills. By ensuring that your unit is running optimally, it won’t have to work as hard to cool your home, resulting in lower energy consumption.

Another advantage of regular tune-ups is the extended lifespan of your air conditioner. Just like any mechanical system, proper maintenance can help prevent premature wear and tear, increasing the longevity of your AC unit. Investing in annual tune-ups can save you money in the long run by avoiding costly repairs or the need for a replacement unit.

Now that we understand the importance of AC tune-ups, the next question arises: When is the best time to have it done? Ideally, the recommended time is in the spring, before the summer heat waves hit. Spring tune-ups give HVAC technicians the opportunity to clean, inspect, and address any potential issues before your AC is put to the test. However, if you reside in a region with mild winters, you have the flexibility to schedule a tune-up at any time of the year.

Finding a reputable AC technician is crucial for a successful tune-up. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right professional:

  • Seek recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have had positive experiences with AC technicians.

  • Ask for references from the technicians you are considering.

  • Verify that the technician is licensed and insured, ensuring their expertise and protecting you from liability.

  • Check online reviews on platforms like Google to gauge the reputation and customer satisfaction of the technicians you are considering.

  • Once you’ve selected a technician, schedule an appointment for a tune-up as soon as possible. Keep in mind that the cost of a tune-up may vary depending on the size and type of your AC unit. Many AC technicians offer early bird discounts, especially during April and May, so take advantage of these opportunities for additional savings.

During the tune-up, you can also request additional services to maximize your AC’s efficiency. For example, ask your technician to clean your unit’s coils, which helps improve its efficiency and prevents overheating. If you have a programmable thermostat, your technician can set it up to optimize your AC’s performance and energy usage.

By committing to an annual AC tune-up, you ensure that your air conditioning system remains in excellent condition for years to come. Consider joining a maintenance agreement, such as our Ultimate Savings Agreement, which provides even more benefits. With this agreement, you can bundle plumbing and HVAC services together, and become a VIP member, unlocking additional savings.

In conclusion, while the best time for an AC tune-up is in the spring, annual maintenance is the most important factor. Don’t hesitate to schedule your tune-up, regardless of the season, to enjoy improved efficiency, extended lifespan, and reduced chances of costly repairs. Take care of your investment and stay cool and comfortable all summer long!

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smiling hvac technician at work. ventilation, heating system maintenance and repair

As you choose an HVAC system for your home, there are a few things you should consider. The system you choose will significantly impact your comfort and the efficiency of your home as a whole, as well as your budget and available space.

Each system has its unique traits and advantages. While this guide gives a comprehensive look at the many different HVAC systems, it is crucial to get in touch with a trusted and highly experienced company offering heating services in Loveland, CO, such as Fort Collins Heating and Air. Our skilled technicians can help you choose the best system for your home.

Systems for Central Air:

Central HVAC systems are the most common type of heating and cooling system found in homes and businesses. They heat and cool your home with a single unit and distribute the air through a network of ducts. Central HVAC systems are highly efficient, reliable, easy to use, and because they can be easily controlled by a single thermostat, central air systems are ideal for most homes and businesses.

Ductless HVAC Systems:

Ductless HVAC systems are an excellent option for homes or businesses without ductwork, or those that want more control over their heating and cooling zones. They consist of an outdoor unit and one or more indoor units that can be mounted on walls or ceilings. Ductless systems are highly efficient and can provide both heating and cooling, making them a popular choice for homes and businesses seeking a flexible and cost-effective solution.

Heat Pumps

This system is an energy-saving option for heating and cooling your home. In addition, they are an excellent choice for milder climates because they transfer heat between your home’s interior and exterior.

Geothermal Systems

Geothermal HVAC systems use the earth’s natural heat to provide heating and cooling, making them incredibly energy efficient and helping you cut costs on your energy bills.

This type of system extracts heat from the ground during the winter months and transfers it to the building. In the summer, the system works in reverse, extracting heat from the building and transferring it to the ground. Geothermal HVAC systems are highly efficient and can significantly reduce energy bills, making them an excellent choice for environmentally conscious homes and businesses.

Hybrid Systems

Hybrid HVAC systems combine the benefits of a central HVAC system and a heat pump. This type of system is highly efficient and can switch between gas or electric heating depending on the outdoor temperature. Hybrid HVAC systems are an excellent choice for homes and businesses seeking a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution.

Packaged HVAC System

Packaged HVAC systems are an all-in-one heating and cooling solution that is ideal for homes and businesses with limited space. This type of system consists of a single unit that is installed outside the building and connected to ductwork inside. Packaged HVAC systems are highly efficient and can provide both heating and cooling, making them an excellent choice for homes and businesses seeking a compact and cost-effective solution.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a System

Size

The size of your home and other factors like insulation, windows, and airflow will determine the size of your HVAC system. Consult a skilled service provider for heating in Loveland, CO. They will help you select the ideal size for your house.

Energy-Efficient

When selecting an HVAC system, energy efficiency is an important consideration. If your current system is outdated, consider upgrading to one that uses less energy and is Energy Star-certified.

Budget

Your financial situation will significantly impact your choice of an HVAC system. However, the price can be somewhat misleading. For example, while some systems may have more upfront costs, they may offer significant energy savings over time.

Space

The available space in your home is another crucial factor to consider. A ductless mini-split system is a good option for homes with limited space.

Finding Expert HVAC Installation in Loveland, CO

Quality installation followed by regular maintenance and repairs are fundamental for ensuring your machine functions properly for a long time. So first, find a reputable company offering heating installation services in Loveland, CO, like Fort Collins Heating and Air. We strive to be a provider that offers a broad range of services to maintain your HVAC system. The right provider can assist you with your heating and cooling needs, from routine repairs to emergency fixes.

Conclusion

Considering the size, energy efficiency, budget, and space constraints is crucial when finding the right HVAC system for your home. Our knowledgeable staff is available to assist you in selecting the ideal option for your residence, whether you require HVAC repair or heating services. For more information or to schedule your HVAC service, call us today at (970) 538-9759.

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Caucasian male removing a square pleated dirty air filter with both hands from a ceiling air duct. Guy taking out an unclean air filter from a home ceiling air vent.

We all know the importance of maintaining a clean living space, but what about the air we breathe? The air ducts in your home play a critical role in circulating air throughout your home, and if they are dirty, they can have a negative impact on your health and your heating and cooling system.

Clean air ducts may seem like an afterthought. However, the truth is that they are responsible for keeping the air in your home clean and maintaining the efficiency and effectiveness of your HVAC system. This guide will help you learn more about the importance of keeping your air ducts clean for both your health and your HVAC system.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

The improved quality of the air inside the house is the clean air ducts’ main benefit. Your air ducts can become clogged with dust, dirt, pet dander, and other contaminants over time. At the point when you turn on your central air framework, these foreign substances are coursed all through your home, which can set off sensitivities and respiratory issues. These contaminants can be removed, and the air quality in your home can be improved with professional duct cleaning.

Increased Energy Efficiency

Dirty air ducts can also impact the energy efficiency of your HVAC system. Believe it or not, dirty air ducts can make your HVAC system work harder. Clogged air ducts require your HVAC system to work harder.

As a result, your system has to work harder to circulate air throughout your home. In addition, because your system uses more power to control the climate in your home, your energy costs can increase drastically. In short, clean air ducts save money on your energy bills by enhancing the efficiency of your HVAC system.

Reduced Allergies and Respiratory Issues

If you or someone in your household deals with respiratory issues or allergies, dirty air ducts can exacerbate these conditions. When your air ducts are clogged with dust and allergens, they constantly circulate throughout your home. Professional duct cleaning can remove these contaminants, reducing the possibility of allergic reactions and respiratory issues.

Extended HVAC Lifespan

Regular duct cleaning can also help keep your HVAC system functioning longer. Essentially, clean ducts extend the lifespan of your HVAC system. When your air ducts are blocked by dirt and debris, it can cause your system to work harder to circulate air.

This can put unnecessary strain on your system, leading to breakdowns and costly repairs. With regular air duct cleanings, you can decrease the pressure on your HVAC system and extend its lifespan.

Conclusion

Maintaining clean air ducts is essential for maintaining a healthy living space. Contact a reputable heating and HVAC service provider at Fort Collins Heating and Air if you’re looking for professional duct cleaning and heating services in Loveland, CO.

A reliable company offering maintenance and HVAC repair in Loveland, CO, can provide routine maintenance on your ducts and the rest of your system to ensure it’s functioning correctly. Routine check-ins also ensure you catch any issues before they become an expensive emergency fix. Call us today at (970) 538-9759.

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Technician from the AC Maintenance and Repair Service climbs a ladder with his toolbox in order to check or fix troubles with a modern white wall mounted air conditioner in a young lady’s home

Your HVAC system can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency. Your heating system keeps you warm in the winter and impacts how much energy your home uses throughout the year. In this blog, we’ll talk about how heating services in Loveland, CO, can help you achieve these goals and how your HVAC system can help improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Upgrade to a High-Efficiency HVAC System

Upgrading to a high-efficiency HVAC system is one of the best ways to increase your home’s energy efficiency. In the long run, high-efficiency systems save you money on utility bills because they use less energy to heat your home. Additionally, because they produce fewer emissions than older, less efficient systems, these systems typically have a lower impact on the environment.

Schedule Regular Maintenance

Routine air conditioning maintenance guarantees your system runs at maximum effectiveness. In addition, a well-maintained system is less likely to break down or have other problems and can help you control your energy costs. Search for a reputable Heating company in Loveland, CO, that offers routine upkeep to assist with maintaining your home’s HVAC system.

Upgrade Your Insulation

Proper insulation is essential to keeping your home warm throughout the cold weather months. If your home is not well-insulated, your heating system will have to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature, which can result in higher energy bills. Upgrading your insulation can decrease energy utilization and save more money over the long haul.

Seal Air Leaks

Unfortunately, air leaks are another common cause of wasted energy in your home. Your heating system will have to work much harder to maintain a comfortable temperature if leaks in your doors and windows allow warm air to escape. If you suspect air leaks in your home, contact a company offering HVAC repair in Loveland, CO. They can assist with preventing air leaks and maximizing your home’s energy efficiency.

Use a Programmable Thermostat

A programmable thermostat is a great way to control how much energy your home uses. You can schedule these thermostats only to run your heating system when necessary. By diminishing the time your heating system runs unnecessarily, you can save more on your energy bills and decrease your overall energy use.

Consult a Professional

Finding reliable support for your heating in Loveland, CO, is essential to ensuring your system runs efficiently and doesn’t cause you to waste money or resources. Use online reviews and references from family and friends to learn more about local HVAC companies and the proficiency of their work.

Final Thoughts

Your HVAC system can increase your home’s energy efficiency in several ways. You can reduce energy use and save money on utility bills by using a programmable thermostat, scheduling routine maintenance, checking your insulation, sealing air leaks, or even upgrading to a high-efficiency system.

Most importantly, if you are looking for the most trusted HVAC repair or heating services in Loveland, CO, be sure to work with Fort Collins Heating & Air Conditioning. Our technicians are highly skilled and prepared to assist you in achieving your objectives regarding energy efficiency.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call us today at (970) 538-9759.

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Heat Pump Loveland CO

A heat pump could be an excellent investment if you’re looking to save money on energy bills. Heat pumps are an efficient way to control your home’s temperature and ensure you’re comfortable no matter the season. Not only are they good for the environment, but they can also save you money over time. Learn more about the pros and cons of investing in a heat pump in Loveland CO so that you can make an informed decision on whether or not it’s right for you.

The Benefits of a Heat Pump

A heat pump transfers heat energy from a heat source to a “heat sink.” They are designed to work in both heating and cooling modes. In the heating mode, the heat pump moves heat from the lower temperature to the higher temperature. In the cooling mode, the heat pump moves heat from the higher temperature to the lower temperature.

If you’re considering whether or not to invest in a heat pump, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. On the plus side, heat pumps are very efficient, can save money on energy bills, and are much better for the environment than traditional heating and cooling systems. Here are some of the other benefits of heat pumps:

  • They can heat and cool your home: A heat pump can be used for heating and cooling, which means you only need one system to keep your home comfortable all year round.
  • They’re very efficient: Heat pumps are much more efficient than traditional heating and cooling systems because they move heat rather than generate it. It means that they use less energy, which saves you money on your energy bills.
  • They’re good for the environment: Heat pumps don’t release harmful emissions into the atmosphere, so they’re much better for the environment than traditional systems.
  • They last long: With proper heat pump installation and maintenance, a heat pump can last for many years – up to 20 years or more. It makes them a wise investment for your home.

The Disadvantages of a Heat Pump

The most significant disadvantage of a heat pump is that it doesn’t work as efficiently at cooling your home as a traditional air conditioner does. That’s because it is designed to work best when heating rather than cooling. A heat pump will cycle on and off to maintain room temperature, but it won’t blow cold air into your home like an AC. However, if you live in a multi-level or detached home without central air, this may not be such an issue.

Are heat pumps worth it?

Heat pumps are an excellent choice for anyone looking to save on energy bills. But before you decide to invest in a heat pump, you should know what exactly makes them so cost-effective.

A heat pump will reduce your heating bills, decrease your carbon footprint and help contribute to a greener environment. The heat pump technology will save you money and do something good for the environment.

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Gas Furnace Loveland CO

Heating systems are essential to your home, yet many people don’t know the difference between a heat pump and a gas furnace. Making the right decision for your home depends on several factors, from budget to energy efficiency. Learn more about the differences between gas furnaces and heat pumps, and explore which is better for your home.

What Is A Heat Pump?

This device transfers heat from one place to another such as from inside a building to the outside or vice versa. In the summer, a heat pump can be used by you to cool a building by moving heat from the inside to the outside. In the winter, a heat pump can be used by you to heat a building by moving heat from the outside to the inside.

What Is A Gas Furnace?

A gas furnace is a system that uses natural gas to heat your home. Furnaces are typically used in areas where natural gas is readily available. Gas furnaces are also generally more efficient than other heating systems, making them a popular choice for many homeowners in Loveland, CO.

Pros and Cons of a Heat Pump or a Gas Furnace

There are pros and cons to both gas furnaces and heat pumps. Gas furnaces are typically less expensive to operate than heat pumps, but heat pumps are more efficient and can be used in all climates.

Gas furnaces require a constant supply of natural gas or propane, which can be expensive in some areas. Heat pumps can use electricity or fossil fuels, making them more versatile. Heat pumps can provide cooling and heating in warm climates, making them a more versatile option overall.

A heat pump is considered to be the more technologically advanced option. In addition to providing better efficiency and cost savings, they can also help with your energy bill if you want to go green. They are more expensive than gas furnaces but tend to last longer and require less heat pump repair.

A gas furnace is a traditional option that is still popular today. You can get a good deal on furniture when you shop for the best prices. Gas furnaces also have a longer lifespan than heat pumps, so you won’t have to call the Gas Furnace Service to replace them as often. They are easy to install and use, but they have some disadvantages as well:

They are typically less efficient than a heat pump, so you’ll have to keep up with replacing the filters more often.

They do not work very well in cold climates, so if you live in an area where it gets icy during the winter, this will be a problem for you.

Which is better?

There is no definitive answer to the question of which type of heating system is better for specific situations. Some factors that may influence your decision include the climate in your region, the efficiency of the unit, and the upfront cost.

A heat pump may be the best choice if you live in the Loveland, CO, region with a mild climate. Heat pumps are very efficient and can save you money on your energy bills in the long run. However, they can be more expensive to purchase and install than a gas furnace.

If you live in a region with a colder climate, a gas furnace may be the better option for you. Gas furnaces are less efficient than heat pumps but are less expensive to purchase and install.

Whether to install a heat pump or gas furnace is ultimately up to the homeowner’s individual needs and budget. Heat pumps are more efficient than gas furnaces but may not be suitable for cold climates. Gas furnaces can provide reliable heating in colder temperatures at an affordable price, but they come with higher operating costs. Ultimately, it comes down to what works best for you and your home, given your climate and budget restrictions.

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Furnace Loveland CO

A furnace is essential for providing comfortable temperatures in any home or office. But, as with any other appliance, it needs regular servicing to ensure it runs smoothly and efficiently. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t know how often they should be servicing their furnaces. Learn the importance of furnace maintenance and answer the question: How often should you service a furnace?

How Often Should the Furnace be serviced?

Your furnace is one of the essential appliances in your home, and it’s important to keep it running efficiently. One way to do that is to have it serviced regularly. Most furnaces only need to be serviced once a year. Of course, if you live in an area with freezing winters or hot summers, you may want to have it serviced more frequently.

If you’re unsure how often to service your furnace, ask your heating and cooling contractor in Loveland, CO, for their recommendation. They can help you determine a schedule that will keep your furnace running smoothly and efficiently for years to come.

Why Should I Get My Furnace Serviced?

Getting your furnace serviced regularly is essential to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. A well-maintained furnace will last longer and perform better than one that isn’t serviced, so it’s worth doing for financial and practical reasons.

During a service, a technician will clean the burner assembly and inspect the heat exchanger for any signs of damage. They’ll also check the blower motor, belts, and oil level if you have an oil-fired furnace. It helps to prevent problems before they start and can save you money on repairs in the long run.

It’s generally recommended that you get your furnace serviced once a year before winter starts. So that you can be sure it’s in good working order before you need it most. However, if you haven’t had it serviced in a while or are unsure of its history, it’s worth getting it checked out sooner rather than later.

What Does Furnace Servicing Involve?

Furnace servicing generally involves thoroughly inspecting the entire unit, including the burner assembly, heat exchanger, and flue pipes. The furnace servicer will also clean any dirt and debris from the unit that could cause problems.

To ensure your furnace is running efficiently, it is essential to service it regularly. Depending on the type of system you have and its age, servicing should be done by furnace service companies at least once a year. Taking the time to maintain your furnace properly can help detect any problems before they become costly repairs and will also extend the life of your unit. If you are unsure how often you should service your furnace or what specific maintenance tasks need to be completed, contact a professional furnace service company that can provide advice and assistance.

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Spending too much money on frequent repairs isn’t ideal. That could take big bites out of your budget. You’re better off buying a new unit instead of throwing money down the drain. Are you wondering when the best time to shop for an HVAC system is? Here’s a brief guide to help you.

Spring is Your Best Bet

Spring is your best bet if you’re planning to buy an HVAC system in Loveland, CO. When purchasing a system, you also need to consider the installation service. Spring is when contractors aren’t as busy. You’ll want to hire a professional to install your HVAC unit. While many homeowners try a DIY approach, we recommend hiring an expert. They have the skills, experience, and tools. They can also get the installation done without any mistakes, so you can look forward to a problem-free process.

Fall Works Too

Like spring, contractors aren’t as busy during this season. If you want to hire an HVAC service in Loveland, CO, to install a new unit, you’ll run into fewer problems. Contractors aren’t as in demand for their services, so you can book a technician easily.

Avoid Winter or Summer

You may think winter or summer are the best times to go out and buy an HVAC system. But when it’s time to install the unit, booking a technician may be more than a tad difficult. Winter and summer are their busiest months. Your plans of finding an experienced technician to handle the installation may run into a few snags, especially if those technicians are busy and have all their slots booked.

Get a New One When Changing Homes

Are you relocating to a new home? That’s also the best time to buy a new HVAC system that’s customized and tailored to your new space. If you’re moving into a bigger home, your old HVAC unit won’t be able to keep up. You’ll be looking for a replacement in no time. Instead of going through the trouble of installing an old unit in your new home, start fresh. Get a new one. That way, it’s a better match for your new home. You can also choose a unit capable of keeping the room cooled evenly.

Buying a New HVAC System

When you buy a new HVAC system, consider the following:

  • Is the unit big enough to handle your home?
  • What features do you want in your HVAC system?
  • Is the new HVAC system energy-efficient?
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Furnace Replacement Loveland CO

Is it time to replace your furnace? Know the signs. While the average service life of a furnace is about 15 to 20 years, you’ll need to consider several factors to determine if it’s time for your furnace to go or if it still has a few more years left in it. Let’s tackle them one by one.

Age

If your system is about 15 to 20 years and already showing its age, that’s a good sign that you need to start looking for a furnace replacement in Loveland, CO. With proper installation and maintenance, your next furnace could last just as long as that or even longer.

Usage

If you often use the furnace, that could speed up the process. System parts and components will wear down quicker, so that unit may not last for as long as 15 to 20 years.

High Energy Bills

If your energy consumption bills keep skyrocketing and you’ve checked for air leaks and found none, your furnace could be the problem. If it’s been around for about 15 years or longer, that means your unit likely isn’t energy efficient. It’s high time you replaced it if you want to start seeing significant cost-savings in your bills. Many say the difference isn’t huge but if you use your furnace often, you’ll notice the difference. Those cost-savings, no matter how small, all add up at the year’s end, and can lead to tremendous savings.

Uneven Heating

Is your home unevenly heated? For instance, your bedroom is warm, but the floor is icy cold once you step into the kitchen. That’s an example of a home where the heat distribution is uneven. A faulty furnace is often the culprit. If that starts happening, you’ll want to ask pros to fix it. That or you may need to consider buying a new one.

Noisy, Rattling, Humming Furnace

Is your furnace noisy? Do sounds issue from the unit, like rattling noises? You’ll want to have that inspected by a technician. That problem won’t go away on its own so find an expert to fix it. Waiting too long to get that fixed may also be too late. As soon as you recognize the signs and know what they mean, look for a technician.

Frequent Repairs

Repairs are part of routine maintenance. But if you keep spending money on repairs, and they happen nearly one after another, that’s an indication that your furnace is a bucket with a hole. You’re only throwing money out the window with repairs, so buy a new unit instead.

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Cold air is a sign that there’s a problem with your furnace. There could be several reasons behind this. Find out what’s causing the issue before things get worse. Once you know the source of the problem, you can determine if DIY solutions will work or if you need to hire pros to fix it.

Incorrect Fan Settings

Believe it or not, something like this often happens. Always check if the thermostat settings are on right. Sometimes, people change the settings by accident. It’s always a good idea to check that before you move on to more complicated fixes. If tinkering with the settings resolves the issue, then you’re in luck. If it doesn’t, the problem is something else.

Faulty Installation

Mistakes during the installation process could result in long-term system problems. One way to prevent that is to hire pros for furnace installation in Loveland, CO. They have the skills, knowledge, and tools to install your furnace properly, without making any mistakes. That way, you won’t have to worry about your unit’s functions being compromised.

Dirty Filter

Is your air filter clogged? A dirty air filter could be one of the reasons why you’ve got cold air blowing from your furnace. How long has it been since the air filter was replaced or cleaned? If you can’t remember, repairing or replacing that filter is long overdue. In some cases, a clogged filter also places additional burden on the system and the other furnace components. Those parts need to work harder because of the clogged filter, which shortens the overall service life of your furnace. You can prevent all those problems just by replacing or cleaning the filter.

Pilot Light

Pilot lights or igniters are used in gas furnaces. They trigger the transformation of natural gas into flame. If your furnace is blowing cold air, the heat may not have kicked on. That’s usually what happens when the pilot light or igniter goes out. Check if that’s the cause of your furnace problems so you can look for the best possible solution as soon as possible.

Fuel Issues

If your gas furnace isn’t getting enough gas supply, that’s another reason why it’s blowing cold air when it should be blowing hot air. If that happens, it’s a fuel problem. Often, once the furnace blows cold air, it shuts down soon after. If you have an electric furnace, replacing any of the faulty components requires the help of a skilled technician. Call a pro.

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