When Kansas Cold Meets Furnace Trouble
Winter in Kansas can be unforgiving, and the last thing any homeowner wants is a furnace that stops working when you need it most. From Olathe to Overland Park and across Johnson County, we see the same common furnace issues every heating season.
At Jack Harrison Heating & Air Conditioning, we believe knowledge is power. Here are the top five furnace problems Kansas homeowners face — and what you can do about them.
1. Furnace Blowing Cold Air
You expect warm comfort, but sometimes your furnace delivers a chilly surprise.
Causes:
Thermostat set incorrectly or malfunctioning.
Pilot light or ignition system issues.
Overheating due to dirty filters.
Fix:
Double-check thermostat settings.
Replace the air filter and/or schedule a heating maintenance visit.
If problems persist, schedule a professional inspection / heating repair visit.
2. Strange Noises
Furnaces aren’t silent, but unusual sounds can mean trouble.
Common Noises & Causes:
Banging/Clanking → Loose or broken parts.
Squealing/Whining → Worn belts or motor bearings.
Rattling → Loose panels or ductwork vibrations.
Fix:
Minor rattles can be tightened, but persistent noises need a technician to prevent bigger damage.
3. Frequent Cycling On & Off
Known as short cycling, this not only makes your home uncomfortable but also wears down your system faster.
Causes:
Dirty air filter.
Thermostat issues.
Oversized furnace.
Fix:
Replace the filter.
Check thermostat placement (shouldn’t be near drafts or heat sources).
If it continues, call for a professional like Jack Harrison Heating & Air to diagnose and make a repair.
4. Weak or Uneven Airflow
Are certain rooms colder than others? Weak airflow is a common problem in older Kansas homes.
Causes:
Blocked or leaky ducts.
Blower motor issues.
Dirty filters restricting circulation.
Fix:
Ensure vents are open and unobstructed.
Schedule a duct inspection or airflow test.
5. Pilot Light or Ignition Issues
If your furnace won’t start at all, the culprit may be the ignition system.
Causes:
Faulty pilot light.
Ignition sensor problems.
Dirty components are preventing proper startup.
Fix:
Relight the pilot light if safe to do so.
For repeated issues, call a professional to inspect and repair.
Why Furnace Problems Shouldn’t Be Ignored
Even minor furnace issues can lead to:
Higher heating bills.
Safety risks (carbon monoxide leaks, fire hazards).
Shortened system lifespan.
Routine maintenance is the best prevention — catching small issues before they become costly emergencies.
Why Johnson County Trusts Jack Harrison Heating & Air Conditioning
When your furnace fails, you need more than a quick fix — you need honest answers and reliable service. That’s where we come in:
Family-Owned & Operated: Proudly serving Olathe and Johnson County.
Affordable, Honest Pricing: We repair first, replace only when needed.
Fast Response Times: Because no one should be left in the cold.
Expert Technicians: Local, certified, and dedicated to your comfort.