Is Your ICP Furnace Blowing Cold Air? Here’s What to Do

Is Your ICP Furnace Blowing Cold Air? Here’s What to Do

An International Comfort Products (ICP) furnace keeps your home warm and energy-efficient during cold months. If it starts blowing cold air, it can be frustrating. Common causes include incorrect thermostat settings, airflow problems, ignition failure, or malfunctioning components preventing the furnace from heating properly.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple troubleshooting steps to restore your International Comfort Products (ICP) furnace’s heating function and bring comfort back to your home.

Common Reasons Why Your ICP Furnace Is Blowing Cold Air

Several common issues can cause your ICP furnace to blow cold air. Here's a quick overview of the most likely problems and their causes:

  • Thermostat Settings: Incorrect thermostat settings are a common cause of cold air. If set to “Fan On” instead of “Auto,” the blower runs continuously even without heat.

  • Clogged Air Filter: When the furnace overheats and shuts off the burner, a dirty air filter might limit airflow and leave only the fan running with chilly air.

  • Pilot Light or Ignition Problems: Older ICP furnaces may have a pilot light that goes out, while newer models use ignitors that can fail, stopping the furnace from heating.

  • Flame Sensor Issues: A dirty or faulty flame sensor can stop the burners from staying lit, causing the furnace to shut off and blow cold air.

  • Overheating: If the furnace overheats from airflow issues or component failure, it may shut off the burner but keep the fan running, blowing cool air.

  • Gas Supply Issues: Without gas, the burners won’t ignite. A closed valve or supply interruption can cause the furnace to blow air without heat.

  • Ductwork Leaks: Leaks in the ductwork let heated air escape, causing only cold or cool air to reach your rooms.

How to Fix an ICP Furnace Blowing Cold Air

Furnace troubleshooting begins with identifying the source of the problem. Follow these steps to solve the issue and restore heat to your home.

Step 1: Inspect Thermostat Settings

The first thing you should do is make sure the thermostat is configured properly.

  • Mode: Verify that "Heat" is selected on the thermostat.

  • Temperature: The temperature should be set higher than the room temperature at the moment.

  • Fan Setting: Set the fan to “Auto” instead of “On.”

The system may circulate air without heating it if a setting is incorrect. The issue might be fixed if this easy error is fixed.  

Step 2: Examine the air filter and replace it

Because a blocked air filter restricts airflow, your furnace may overheat and shut off its burners.

  • Locate the Air Filter: It’s usually found near the return air duct or blower compartment.

  • Inspect for Dirt: If the filter looks dusty or gray, it needs replacement.

  • Replace Filter: Use a clean, manufacturer-approved filter to ensure proper airflow.

Regular filter changes every 1–3 months help maintain efficient furnace operation.

Step 3: Check the Ignitor or Pilot Light

Depending on your ICP furnace model, the heating system may include a pilot light or electronic ignitor.

  • Pilot Light (Older Models): Relight the pilot according to the manufacturer's directions if it is out.

  • Electronic Ignitor (Newer Models): Listen for clicking sounds or verify whether ignition is occurring during startup.

If the ignition fails consistently, contact a certified HVAC technician for diagnosis and repair.

Step 4: Clean the Flame Sensor

Shortly after ignition, the furnace may turn off the burner due to a malfunctioning flame sensor.

  • Turn Off Power: Always turn off furnace power before working on internal components.

  • Access the Flame Sensor: Usually found close to the burners

  • Clean the Sensor: Use fine steel wool or a soft cloth to remove built-up residue.

  • Reassemble and Test: Reinstall the sensor and turn the furnace back on to test functionality.

It could be necessary to replace the sensor if the issue continues.

Step 5: Check the Gas Supply

Gas is necessary for your furnace to produce heat.

  • Gas Valve: Confirm that the valve is open.

  • Other Gas Appliances: Test other gas appliances to verify the household gas supply.

  • Suspected Leak: Get out of the area at away and get in touch with your utility company if you smell gas.

Never attempt to repair a gas line without professional assistance.

Step 6: Inspect for Overheating Issues

Furnaces may shut off burners if internal temperatures rise too high.

  • Blocked Vents: Verify that every supply and return vent is free of obstructions and open.

  • Blower Motor: The furnace may overheat if the blower isn't working properly. A professional inspection is required if the blower isn't performing as it should.

  • Thermal Limit Switch: This safety device may need replacement if it trips too easily.

Prevent overheating by maintaining good airflow and regular filter replacement.

Step 7: Check Ductwork for Leaks

Warm air may escape from disconnected or leaky ductwork before it reaches your vents.

  • Inspect Accessible Ducts: Look for gaps, tears, or disconnected sections.

  • Seal Small Leaks: Use HVAC foil tape to seal small gaps.

  • Call a Professional: For extensive ductwork issues, consult an HVAC technician.

Well-sealed ducts improve heating performance and efficiency.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve tried all the above steps and your ICP furnace continues to blow cold air, it’s time to call a qualified HVAC technician for professional furnace repair. Complex issues such as internal component failure, control board malfunctions, or persistent ignition problems require expert diagnosis and repair.

Preventing Future ICP Furnace Issues

Taking a few simple furnace maintenance steps can help avoid future heating problems:

  • Change your furnace filter every 1–3 months.

  • Periodically verify thermostat mode and temperature settings.

  • Professional inspections keep your furnace and other International Comfort Products systems running smoothly.

  • Keep the area around your furnace free from debris, clutter, and dust.

Ignoring an ICP furnace blowing cold air can quickly lead to discomfort, higher energy bills, and costly repairs. By spotting issues early and addressing furnace problems promptly, you can keep your ICP system working efficiently all season long.
Having trouble with your ICP furnace? PartsHnC offers high-quality ICP furnace parts and HVAC components, plus expert guidance to help you maintain a warm, comfortable, and energy-efficient home.

FAQs

How do power outages affect my ICP furnace’s operation?

Power outages can reset or disrupt the furnace’s control board settings, sometimes causing it to blow cold air until the system is reset or inspected.

Can thermostat placement impact my ICP furnace’s heating?

Yes, if the thermostat is placed near drafts, sunlight, or heat sources, it can misread room temperature and cause the furnace to underperform.

Does the type of fuel used affect the heating capability of an ICP furnace?

Yes, using incorrect or low-quality fuel with your ICP furnace can cause combustion issues, leading to insufficient heating.

Location: United States

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