Common HVAC Problems in the Winter

Winter in Dayton means chilly mornings, frosty evenings, and a heating system that works overtime. When your HVAC system runs nearly nonstop, even small issues can quickly turn into big problems. Knowing what to look for—and how to respond—can help you stay warm and comfortable all season long.

If your home isn’t heating properly or your system seems off, don’t wait for it to get worse. Contact our team today or call (937) 507-3372 for quick, reliable HVAC service.

1. Uneven Heating Throughout Your Home

Do some rooms in your home feel warm while others stay cold? Uneven heating is one of the most common winter HVAC complaints.

Possible causes include:

Blocked or closed vents restricting airflow
Dirty air filters reducing circulation
Leaky ductwork letting warm air escape
A thermostat that isn’t reading temperatures correctly

What you can do:

Make sure all supply and return vents are open and unblocked by furniture or curtains.
Replace your air filter if it’s dirty.
If the issue continues, have a professional inspect your ducts and thermostat for problems.

Sometimes uneven heating is a sign that your furnace or ducts need attention from an HVAC expert.

2. Furnace Blowing Cold Air

When you expect warm air but get a blast of cool air instead, it can be frustrating.

Common causes of cold air include:

The thermostat setting is on “fan” instead of “auto.”
A dirty air filter is blocking airflow.
The pilot light (for gas furnaces) is out.
The system is overheating and shutting down for safety.

Try resetting your thermostat and checking your filter. If the problem continues, you may need professionalfurnace repair or maintenance to get things running smoothly again.

3. Strange Noises From the Furnace

It’s normal to hear a quiet hum or whoosh of air when your furnace runs, but loud noises are a red flag.

Pay attention to these sounds:

Banging or popping: Could mean expanding ductwork or dirty burners.
Squealing or screeching: Often linked to a worn-out blower belt or motor bearings.
Rattling: May signal loose panels or parts inside the unit.

Unusual noises shouldn’t be ignored. They can indicate that a small issue is turning into a larger repair.

4. Short Cycling (System Turning On and Off Too Often)

If your furnace turns on and off frequently—sometimes every few minutes—it’s called short cycling. This can wear out your system and waste energy.

Possible reasons:

A clogged filter causing poor airflow
A malfunctioning thermostat
An oversized furnace that heats the home too quickly
Safety sensors shutting down the system prematurely

What to try:

Replace the air filter.
Check that your thermostat is in a stable location (not near heat sources or vents).
If short cycling continues, call an HVAC technician to diagnose the cause.

5. Frozen Heat Pump or Outdoor Unit

In cold Ohio winters, it’s common for frost to form on a heat pump or outdoor unit. A light layer of frost is normal, but thick ice buildup can block airflow and stop your system from heating properly.

Causes may include:

Poor drainage around the unit
Faulty defrost cycle
Low refrigerant levels

Prevention tips:

Keep the area around your outdoor unit clear of snow, leaves, and debris.
Don’t try to chip off ice yourself—it can damage the unit.
Call an HVAC professional to inspect the defrost controls and refrigerant.

6. Rising Energy Bills

If your winter utility bills are climbing higher than usual, your HVAC system might be working harder than it should.

Common culprits:

Dirty air filters
Aging or inefficient furnace
Leaky ducts letting heat escape
Poor insulation in your home

Ways to manage costs:

Change filters every 1–3 months.
Have your system inspected and tuned up annually.
Seal windows, doors, and ducts to prevent heat loss.

Regular maintenance helps keep your system efficient and energy use low all winter long.

7. Thermostat Problems

If your furnace won’t turn on—or seems to heat inconsistently—the thermostat might be the cause.

Watch for:

Blank or flickering screen
Inaccurate temperature readings
System not responding to changes

Try replacing the batteries or checking that the thermostat is set to “heat.” If it still doesn’t work, you may need a repair or replacement to restore proper communication with your HVAC system.

8. Pilot Light or Ignition Issues

For gas furnaces, the pilot light or ignition system is essential for creating heat. If it’s not working correctly, the furnace won’t stay lit.

Causes can include:

Dirt or soot buildup on sensors
Drafts blowing out the pilot flame
Faulty ignition parts or gas supply issues

Our professional team can safely clean and inspect these components to restore steady, reliable heat.

Preventing HVAC Problems Before They Start

The best way to avoid breakdowns is through regular HVAC maintenance, especially before winter hits. Preventive service keeps your system clean, efficient, and ready for cold weather.

Simple maintenance steps:

Replace filters regularly.
Keep vents and returns free of dust.
Schedule a professional inspection each fall.

A trained technician can spot worn parts or early warning signs before they turn into costly repairs.

Stay Warm and Worry-Free With Seiter Services

When your HVAC system isn’t keeping up with the Dayton winter, you don’t have to tough it out. The friendly, experienced team at Seiter Services is here to help keep your home warm, safe, and comfortable.

Whether you need quick repairs or preventive maintenance, we provide trusted furnace repair and maintenance services throughout the Miami Valley.

Call (937) 507-3372 or contact us online today to schedule HVAC services with local experts who care about your comfort.