Why is My Space Heater Blowing Cold Air?
If you have a space heater that is blowing cold air, there are many ways to fix it. First, check to make sure that there is not a faulty circuit breaker or infrared heating element. Also, look for a leak or tear in the ductwork. Another possible problem is a faulty flame sensor.
Clean the flame sensor
The flame sensor on your furnace or space heater is a key component in keeping your home comfortable and toasty. However, it can get dusty and dirty. This can cause your unit to miss the mark. Luckily, there are many ways to keep your furnace or space heater working at its best.
First, make sure your gas supply is on. If it is not, you’ll be unable to turn on the big boy. Additionally, the furnace might just shut down. A qualified technician can help you check out your fuel line and make sure you’re getting the most efficient fuel for your buck.
Next, take a good look at the flame sensor. Typically, the flame sensor is located in a compartment near the rear of the furnace. While you’re there, you might as well check out the condensate lines. They are often clogged with debris and can impede airflow.
You should also consider replacing the flame sensor with a new one. To do this, you’ll need to access the back of your unit and remove the mounting screw. Once that’s done, you’re ready to install the new thing.
Check the infrared heating element
If you turn on your space heater and the air coming out of it is cold, it is time to check the infrared heating element. It may be faulty, so make sure it is in good working condition.
Usually, the first thing to check is the power source. This is because the problem is likely to be a simple electronic fault.
Another problem is a faulty heater control switch. Make sure you unplug your heater from the electrical outlet. After this, you should wait for about 5 to 10 minutes for it to cool down.
You should also check the wiring. If there is a loose connection, it can cause heat buildup and eventually lead to a blown circuit breaker.
If the heating element is faulty, you will need to replace it. Often, you can find replacement parts online. Be careful not to use parts that are not the right size. They should match the color bands on the unit.
Check the circuit breaker
If your space heater is blowing cold air, it’s time to check the circuit breaker. This is a simple procedure that can help prevent a malfunction or worse.
The circuit breaker is a safety device that cuts off power to your system if it detects too much load on it. Besides being a safety measure, it also serves as a way to protect you from a fire.
Most circuit breakers are meant to handle the electrical load of a single wall outlet, but some larger appliances can overload the circuit and cause it to trip. To keep you safe, make sure that your breaker has the proper amperage rating.
When you do find that the tripping breaker is the culprit, you may need to switch it out for a new one. Be sure to check the wattage and temperature of the heater in question. A space heater that’s too powerful can be a fire hazard.
Fix a leak or tear in the ductwork
If you have noticed that the heating or cooling system in your home is not working properly, or that your heater is blowing cold air, you may need to fix a leak or tear in your ductwork. Ductwork is important to keep your home comfortable, and it must be kept in good condition.
A professional can help repair any ductwork problems that you might have. They can check for any gaps or holes, as well as seal any areas that need attention. You should have your ducts inspected by a professional at least once a year.
If your ducts are made of sheet metal, you might need to have them repaired. Sheet metal is a durable material, but it can also be prone to holes and tears. These are caused by rust, corrosion, or impacts.
To fix a leak or tear in your ducted work, you need to use a mastic. Mastic is a gap-filling sealant that adheres to most surfaces. It is a brush-on product, which is applied to any hole or crack that needs to be sealed.