Heating

Is Your Furnace Blowing Cold Air? Here’s What’s Likely Going On

Written by Mark Sanger

If you’re standing over a vent wondering why your furnace blowing cold air is happening on one of Denver’s coldest days, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common heating calls we get once temperatures drop along the Front Range.

Sometimes it’s a quick fix. Other times, it’s your furnace telling you it needs professional attention. Below, we’ll help you recognize what’s going on, walk through safe DIY checks, explain when cold air is normal, and show you when it’s time to call Done.

Recognize the Problem: Is Something Actually Wrong?

Not all cold air means a failure – but persistent cold air does. If any of these sound familiar, your system likely needs attention:

Your furnace is blowing cold air from every vent and never warms up
You’re thinking “my heater is blowing cold air” even though the thermostat says Heat
The system runs constantly, but the house stays cold
You’ve reset the furnace, but the problem keeps coming back

When a furnace not blowing hot air lasts longer than a few minutes, it’s usually related to airflow, ignition, or a safety control doing its job to prevent damage.

DIY Troubleshooting Tips to Try First

Before calling for service, there are a few homeowner-safe checks that solve a surprising number of “heater blowing cold air” situations.

Check the thermostat:

Make sure the system is set to Heat
Set the fan to Auto, not On
Replace thermostat batteries if the screen looks dim
Confirm the set temperature is higher than the room temperature

Inspect the air filter:

A clogged filter is one of the top reasons a furnace blowing cold air shuts down
Replace dirty filters with the correct size
Better airflow helps prevent overheating and safety shutoffs

Reset the system:

Turn the furnace off at the breaker or switch for 30–60 seconds
Turn it back on and listen for ignition
Make sure the gas valve is open
Open all supply and return vents and remove airflow blockages

If these steps don’t restore heat and your furnace not blowing hot air continues, it’s time to dig deeper.

When You Should Be Concerned

Some signs mean the issue isn’t just a setting or filter—and ignoring them can lead to bigger problems.

Call for professional help if:

Cold air continues for several minutes every cycle
The furnace repeatedly shuts off and restarts
You hear banging, booming, or grinding sounds
The pilot light won’t stay lit
You notice burning or electrical smells

These symptoms often point to ignition failure, overheating, sensor problems, or fuel supply issues. At this point, DIY stops being helpful, and safe.

When You Shouldn’t Be Concerned

Here’s the part most homeowners don’t realize: brief cold air can be completely normal.

At the start of a heating cycle, many systems push cool or room-temperature air while the burners warm up. That doesn’t automatically mean your heater blowing cold air is broken.

What’s normal:

Cool air for 30–90 seconds after startup
Slight delays in larger homes or longer duct systems

What’s not:

Air that never warms
Repeated cold cycles throughout the day
A system that runs but never produces heat

If you’re unsure, a professional inspection can quickly tell the difference between normal operation and a real problem.

Why This Happens So Often in Denver Winters

Denver’s fast temperature swings put extra stress on furnaces. When the first hard freeze hits Aurora, Parker, Centennial, or Highlands Ranch, small issues suddenly show up.

Filters clog faster. Metal components contract. Ignition parts that worked fine in fall may struggle in sub-zero nights. That’s why many homeowners notice their heater is blowing cold air during cold snaps, even if it worked recently.

Why Calling Done! Heating & Cooling Makes Sense

When your furnace blowing cold air isn’t something you can fix with a filter or reset, you want answers—fast. Since 1999, Done has helped homeowners across Aurora and Greater Denver get reliable heat back without the guesswork.

When you call Done, you can expect:

Same-day service for urgent heating issues
Clear explanations in plain English
Upfront pricing before work begins
Experienced local technicians who understand Denver homes

If your furnace not blowing hot air is disrupting your comfort – or your routine – we’re ready to help. And if you want to reduce the chances of dealing with a heater blowing cold air again, ask about the Care Club for scheduled maintenance and priority service.

Heating

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Does a Furnace Cleaning Cost?

Understanding furnace cleaning costs shouldn’t feel like guesswork — especially when your comfort and energy bills are on the line. Most homeowners just want two things: clear prices and confidence they’re making the right call. That’s exactly what we provide at Done! Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric. Our technicians focus on transparency, reliable workmanship, and practical guidance that helps you take care of your system without unnecessary spend.

In this guide, we’ll explain what’s included in a professional furnace cleaning, typical inspection and tune-up cost ranges, and the factors that influence your final price. We’ll also outline simple, safe steps you can take between visits to keep your system running smoothly. Whether you’re planning ahead or troubleshooting a concern, this breakdown gives you the clarity you need to protect your home, and your wallet, with confidence.

What’s Included in a Furnace Cleaning

A thorough cleaning focuses on safety, reliability, and efficiency. Our trained technicians remove dust and debris, inspect critical parts, and confirm that your system is operating the way it should. Here’s how service levels typically break down, and what the furnace cleaning cost and furnace maintenance cost look like:

Basic cleaning and safety check: typically $100–$200. Includes standard filter replacement, vacuuming accessible compartments, burner inspection, and a carbon monoxide safety test. This visit covers the essentials and helps you stay on track with annual maintenance.

Advanced cleaning and tune-up: generally $200–$400. Includes deeper cleaning of the blower assembly, accessible heat exchanger surface cleaning, burner calibration, ignition system service, condensate line cleaning for high-efficiency units, and airflow checks. A heating system tune up at this level is ideal if it’s been more than a year since your last service.

Premium cleaning with full maintenance visit: could be as much as $500. Includes advanced cleaning plus thorough diagnostics, minor adjustments, and priority scheduling. This level is designed to reduce breakdown risks and stabilize comfort all winter.

What affects your price:

Furnace type: High-efficiency condensing units and oil-fired systems take longer and may require specialized steps, impacting oil furnace cleaning cost.
Accessibility: Tight spaces or obstructed units add labor time.
Condition: Heavy dust, pet hair, or soot can bump a basic visit into a deeper clean.
Filter type: Media filters and HEPA upgrades increase materials cost.
Local rates and demand: Prices can rise during peak heating season.

Basic vs. advanced cleaning:

Basic: Best for well-maintained systems; keeps warranty requirements aligned and catches small issues early.
Advanced: Smart when your furnace hasn’t been serviced in over a year, for older units, or if air quality and efficiency have dropped. The added furnace maintenance cost can pay back with smoother, more reliable performance in winter.

Why Professional Furnace Cleaning Is Worth It

Professional service from Done! delivers consistent heat, fewer surprises, and better energy performance. Our certified technicians use specialised tools and calibrated testing to find hidden problems and fine-tune combustion and airflow — work that’s difficult and risky to manage without training. With Done, you get quick responsiveness, a customer-first approach, and work backed by our transparent service guarantee.

Efficiency and longevity benefits:

Optimized airflow reduces strain on motors and prolongs component life.
Precise burner calibration for our high altitude to support steady heat and fewer stop–start cycles.
Preventive checks catch early wear on igniters, sensors, and belts, helping you avoid emergency calls.

Health and safety advantages:

Less dust and allergens circulating through ducts.
Verified carbon monoxide safety with calibrated instruments.
Cleaner heat exchanger surfaces reduce the risk of overheating and shutdowns.

Impact on energy bills:

A tuned furnace can lower heating costs by 5–15% compared to neglected units.
Clean filters and blowers mean shorter run times and more consistent temperatures.
Proper gas pressure and adjustments prevent waste and stabilise utility bills.

How long does it take? A standard visit usually lasts 60–90 minutes. Advanced cleanings and detailed diagnostics can 2 hours depending on your unit and condition. If you’re wondering how often should I have my furnace inspected, most homes benefit from annual maintenance with seasonal check-ins for high-efficiency systems.

How Much DIY Furnace Cleaning Can You Safely Do?

There are a few simple things homeowners can do between professional visits, but it’s important to keep DIY maintenance in the safe zone. Light upkeep helps your system breathe better, but anything involving calibration, burners, or internal components should always be handled by a trained technician. Staying within the right boundaries protects your equipment—and helps you avoid costly repairs.

What you can safely do yourself:

Turn off power to the furnace before you start.
Replace your furnace filter using the correct size and MERV rating.
Vacuum loose dust around the blower compartment and return area without touching wiring or delicate parts.
Gently wipe accessible surfaces with a dry cloth—avoid liquids near electronics or ignition components.
Check vents and registers around your home for blockages so airflow stays consistent.

These quick tasks typically cost $15–$60 in basic supplies and help keep things running smoothly between tune-ups.

When DIY stops being safe: If you see soot, smell something unusual, hear odd noises, or feel uneven heat, it’s time to pause. Cleaning burners, adjusting sensors, handling electrical components, or opening sealed areas can easily lead to damage, safety issues, or voided warranties.

That’s where we come in.

Join the Care Club and enjoy an annual Done! furnace tune-up that includes comprehensive cleaning, testing, and safety checks you can’t — or don’t want to — perform yourself. This membership significantly reduces the risk of breakdowns and helps keep your energy costs consistent. If you notice any issues or want to arrange your yearly maintenance, our dedicated team is ready to assist you. We ensure a straightforward, efficient process that values your time.

Tips to Lower Furnace Cleaning Cost

Smart planning helps keep your visit affordable while protecting your system. Done offers programmes and deals designed to deliver lasting value with minimal disruption, and our no-hidden-fee pricing keeps every furnace maintenance cost transparent from the start.

Join the Done! Care Club for regular heating and cooling maintenance:

Priority appointments, exclusive discounts, and scheduled tune-ups that reduce emergency repairs.
Consistent service history that supports warranty requirements and future resale value.

Seasonal offers for installations and repairs:

Promotions and special offers help you upgrade or fix issues at competitive rates.
Transparent quotes show scope and price before work begins—no surprises.

Bundle services for savings:

Combine furnace cleaning with AC tune-ups, duct cleaning, or indoor air quality upgrades for multi-service discounts.
One visit, multiple tasks — save on trip fees and keep your whole system in sync.

When you compare furnace inspection cost and furnace cleaning cost across providers, look for measurable results: combustion checks, airflow readings, and safety tests. We document these on every visit so you can see the improvement.

Clear Pricing and Dependable Service

Choosing the right partner matters. With Done, you’re choosing a team that values your comfort and satisfaction as much as you do. We bring technical expertise and a caring, customer-first approach, backed by a transparent service guarantee and 24/7 availability.

Reliability and transparency:

Upfront estimates, no hidden fees, and detailed service reports.
On-time arrivals, respectful service, and careful attention to your home.

Quality you can trust:

Certified technicians who follow proven checklists and best practices.
We measure outcomes—airflow, combustion, and safety—so you see clear improvements.

All-in-one home service:

Heating and cooling, plumbing, and electrical—coordinate multiple needs with one trusted provider.
Simplified scheduling keeps maintenance fast and convenient.

If you’re weighing furnace maintenance cost against long-term reliability, our approach keeps your system efficient and safe without surprises. For oil-fired equipment, we’ll explain oil furnace cleaning cost and outline any soot-related steps before work begins.

Get a Fast, Accurate Furnace Cleaning Quote

Ready for a smoother heating season? Tell us your furnace type and any issues you’ve noticed, hot and cold spots, higher bills, unusual sounds, and we’ll provide a clear estimate. If you need service right away, we offer same-day appointments whenever possible. One call, and it’s Done.

Serving Denver and Aurora homeowners since 1999, we understand busy schedules and unpredictable weather. We keep communication simple, pricing upfront, and work efficient so you can get back to normal quickly. Whether you’re comparing furnace cleaning cost, furnace inspection cost, or planning annual maintenance, our team is ready to help with urgency, care, and results you can feel.

How Much Does a New Furnace Cost?

Thinking about upgrading your furnace? You’re probably wondering what the furnace installation cost Denver homeowners can expect—and what factors truly drive those numbers. It’s an important decision. A well-chosen, professionally installed furnace can lower energy bills, improve comfort, and provide dependable heat for years to come.

Modern systems also bring efficiency advantages that pay off long-term. While the initial investment matters, performance, reliability, and operating costs make all the difference. That’s where expert guidance helps.

At Done! Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric, we make furnace replacement simple and transparent. From equipment selection to installation and maintenance, our team walks you through every cost consideration to help you make an informed choice.

Choosing the Right Furnace

Finding the right furnace is the first step toward a smart investment. The goal isn’t just to stay warm, it’s to ensure efficiency, reliability, and value season after season.

Our certified HVAC experts evaluate your home’s fuel type, layout, and energy goals to recommend the ideal system. Whether you’re considering a gas, electric, or oil furnace, we make sure it’s properly sized and installed for lasting performance.

Every Done! installation comes backed by our Home Comfort Guarantee, trusted brands, and transparent pricing, so you can feel confident before you even see the final quote.

Furnace Installation Costs

As you explore your options, it’s helpful to understand how pricing works. The total cost of a furnace depends on the fuel type, size, and efficiency rating—each playing a role in your system’s performance and long-term savings. While a lower upfront price might seem appealing, investing in energy-efficient equipment with dependable features and strong warranties often pays off over time.

At Done, we guide you through these choices with clear, upfront recommendations, helping you balance cost, efficiency, and comfort for the best overall value.

How Much is a New Furnace?

The expense of installing a furnace extends beyond the purchase price of the unit. Factors such as your home’s design, existing systems, and the complexity of installation all contribute to the overall cost. We provide transparent evaluations to ensure precise estimates.

Home size and layout influences:

Larger homes often require greater heating capacity due to their square footage and multiple levels. Homes with poor insulation or drafty windows may need more robust systems, while inefficient ductwork might call for design modifications to enhance performance.

Home Size / Capacity	Recommended Furnace Size (BTU)	Notes
Small to mid-sized homes	40,000–80,000 BTU	Suitable for most single-story or compact homes.
Larger homes	90,000–120,000 BTU	Needed for bigger homes or those with high ceilings.
Multi-level / open layouts	Varies	May require advanced airflow features for even heating.

Fuel type and local costs impact expenses:

Gas is economical in areas where it’s available, with modern gas furnaces providing dependable service. Electric systems are easy to install and suitable for milder climates, though costs vary with electricity rates. Oil is an option where gas is unavailable, but it necessitates proper tank maintenance.

Furnace Type	Typical Installation Notes	Estimated Cost Range
Gas Furnace	Most common in Denver. Pricing varies based on efficiency (80–99% AFUE), venting requirements, and existing gas line condition. High-efficiency models may need new PVC flues or condensate drains.	$8,000–$14,000
Electric Furnace	Easier to install if the home’s electrical panel can support it. Best for smaller homes or where gas lines aren’t available, though higher electricity rates can increase long-term costs.	$7,000–$12,000
Oil Furnace	Less common in the Denver area. Requires an oil tank, venting, and regular maintenance. Installations are typically more complex and costly.	$9,000–$15,000+

High-efficiency models demand specialized venting and flues, while electrical upgrades might require new circuits or panel improvements. Limited installation spaces can lead to additional labor, and obtaining necessary permits and inspections is crucial for safety compliance.

Efficiency Level (AFUE)	Description	Upfront Cost Impact
80–85% (Standard Efficiency)	Converts 80–85% of fuel into heat.	Lower
90–99% (High Efficiency)	Converts up to 99% of fuel into heat.	Higher

How Much is a Furnace Replacement?

A new furnace is more than just a piece of equipment—it’s an investment in your home’s comfort and efficiency. At Done Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric, we handle every detail with precision and transparency to help you get the most value for your money.

Expert Installation & Setup

Our licensed technicians install every furnace to code and optimize it for peak efficiency. Most replacements are completed in a single day, and we take care of all permits and inspections—so you can relax knowing everything’s done right.

Efficiency Upgrades & Airflow Improvements

Proper ductwork and balanced airflow make all the difference. We seal leaks, fine-tune your system, and can add upgrades like smart thermostats, air purifiers, or humidifiers to boost performance and comfort.

Protection & Long-Term Savings

Every installation is backed by our Home Comfort Guarantee and strong manufacturer warranties. Join our Care Club for regular maintenance, priority scheduling, and exclusive savings that keep your system running efficiently year after year.

Simple Steps for Lasting Results

Choose the right size furnace to avoid wasted energy.
Keep filters clean to protect airflow.
Schedule annual tune-ups to maintain efficiency.
Use smart controls to lower monthly costs.

With Done, you get expert craftsmanship, honest pricing, and a system built to last—no hidden fees, no surprises, just dependable warmth when you need it most.

Financing Options for Your New Furnace

Replacing your furnace is a big step toward a warmer, more efficient home—and with flexible financing, you don’t have to put it off. At Done Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric, we make it easy to upgrade now and pay over time, so you can get the right system without straining your budget.

Our financing options are designed for real homeowners and real budgets:

Low monthly payments: Spread the cost of your new furnace with simple, fixed-rate plans.
Promotional terms: Ask about special offers like reduced or deferred interest.
Bundle savings: Combine your furnace install with upgrades like smart thermostats or air quality add-ons.

Most homeowners qualify quickly, with straightforward applications and flexible terms. You’ll always get clear details—no surprises, no hidden fees.

Financing also lets you choose what’s best for your home right now:

Upgrade to a high-efficiency system that saves energy (and money) over time.
Keep your cash flow steady for other household projects.
Enjoy immediate comfort while protecting your long-term investment.

Our experts will guide you through all available options to find a plan tailored to your requirements—because at Done, your comfort is our priority.

Ready to Upgrade? See How Much a New Furnace Really Costs in Denver

Your furnace installation cost depends on several factors—fuel type, size, efficiency, and the details of your home. While high-efficiency models can cost more upfront, they often save you money for years through lower energy bills and better performance.

At Done Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electric, we make the process simple and transparent. Our experts evaluate your home, explain your options, and give you a clear, no-surprise estimate before any work begins.

Call us now to get started with your furnace estimate and find out exactly how much a new furnace costs in Denver—with expert guidance, upfront pricing, and guaranteed quality from Done.

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