Why Your Furnace May Be Struggling This Winter – Inland Northwest

Reasons Why Your Furnace May Not Be Working Properly

When winter really settles over Post Falls, ID and Spokane, WA, most homeowners flip on their furnace expecting instant comfort. But what if your system seems to be struggling to keep up? Maybe certain rooms stay chilly, your energy bill suddenly spikes, or you’re hearing noises that weren’t there last year.

At Prairie Heating and Air, we see this every year across the Inland Northwest. The combination of freezing temperatures, long run times, and months of downtime before heating season all add up to one thing. A furnace that’s working harder than it should.

Here’s what might be going on, what happens when your furnace kicks on for the first time, and what you can do to stay warm and worry-free this winter.

What Happens When You Turn On Your Furnace for the First Time

Every fall, when that first chill hits the Coeur d’Alene area, homeowners start up their furnaces for the first time in months. That’s when several things can happen:

1. Dust burning off: If you smell something slightly smoky or musty, that’s usually dust and debris burning off the heat exchanger or burners. It should clear within a few minutes.

2. Belts or bearings protesting: Parts that sat idle all summer can make squealing or rattling noises when they first get moving again.

3. Pilot or ignition issues: Moisture or corrosion can make it harder for your pilot light or electronic igniter to catch.

4. Filter restrictions: If your air filter hasn’t been changed since spring, airflow may be reduced, making your furnace work harder.

5. Blower motor resistance: Motors that haven’t run for months can seize up slightly or overheat when they first start again.

These are common, but if the symptoms persist or get worse, it’s a sign your furnace could use some professional repair attention.

Why Furnaces Struggle in the Winter

North Idaho’s winter climate puts extra pressure on your heating system. Here are a few reasons your furnace might be struggling right now:

1. Freezing Temperatures Mean Longer Run Times

When temperatures in Post Falls drop into the teens, your furnace runs almost constantly to maintain comfort. That heavy workload wears on motors, blowers, and electrical components over time.

2. Dirty or Clogged Filters

A dirty filter makes your furnace breathe through a straw. Airflow drops, heat output falls, and energy bills climb.

Quick tip: Check your filter every 30 days during the heating season and replace it when it looks dusty or gray.

3. Thermostat Calibration

If your thermostat isn’t reading accurately, your system might short-cycle or leave parts of your home too cold. Older thermostats often need recalibration or replacement.

4. Leaky Ductwork

In many North Idaho homes, especially those with crawl spaces or older duct systems, leaks let warm air escape before it ever reaches your rooms. Sealing or insulating ducts can make a big difference in comfort and efficiency.

5. Aging Equipment

Most furnaces last 15–20 years. As they age, they become less efficient and more prone to breakdowns, especially in homes that rely on them heavily every winter.

Signs Your Furnace Needs a Tune-Up or Repair

Your furnace will often give you small clues before something major goes wrong. Here’s what to watch for:

• Uneven heating between rooms

• Furnace running constantly or cycling too quickly

• Strange noises—rattling, banging, squealing, or humming

• A burnt or metallic smell that doesn’t go away after startup

• Higher-than-normal gas or electric bills

• Cold air blowing from vents

• The furnace failing to turn on or stay lit

These symptoms don’t always mean you need a new furnace because often a tune-up or small repair can get things back to normal.

Homeowner Checklist: What You Can Inspect Yourself

You don’t need to be an HVAC technician to perform a few basic checks. Here’s a quick list of things you can safely do on your own:

• Change your air filter – This should be your first step.
• Check all vents and returns – Make sure they’re open and not blocked by furniture or rugs.
• Inspect your thermostat settings – Replace batteries if needed and ensure it’s set to “Heat.”
• Listen for odd noises – Knocking, whistling, or squealing can indicate loose parts or motor issues.
• Check the exhaust vent outside – Clear away snow, leaves, or nests that could block ventilation.
• Look for water around the furnace base – This can be a sign of condensation or drainage issues in high-efficiency models.

If everything looks good but your furnace still isn’t performing right, that’s when it’s time to call the pros at Prairie Heating and Air.

When to Call Prairie Heating and Air

You should always reach out to an HVAC technician if:

• You smell gas or something burning (other than light dust on startup)

• The furnace shuts off unexpectedly or fails to ignite

• You hear loud bangs or grinding sounds

• Your system runs but doesn’t produce enough heat

• Your energy bill spikes with no clear reason

• It’s been more than a year since your last tune-up

Our technicians will inspect the heat exchanger, burners, electrical components, and airflow to make sure everything is operating safely and efficiently. These are things homeowners shouldn’t try to do themselves.

Why Annual Furnace Tune-Ups Are Worth It

A professional tune-up might not seem urgent, but it pays for itself in comfort and peace of mind. Regular maintenance helps:

• Prevent mid-season breakdowns

• Lower your monthly heating bills

• Extend the life of your furnace

• Catch safety issues like cracked heat exchangers early

• Keep your manufacturer warranty valid

You do things like this for your automobile and small maintenance steps with your HVAC system now can prevent big repairs later.

Stay Warm and Worry-Free This Winter

We’re proud to keep homes across Post Falls, Coeur d’Alene, Rathdrum, and all of North Idaho warm through the long winter months. If your furnace is struggling to keep up, making strange noises, or driving up your utility bills, our local HVAC experts can help.

Schedule your furnace tune-up or repair today and stay comfortable no matter how cold it gets outside.

Call Prairie Heating and Air at 208-619-6480 to book your service or contact us online with any questions. You’ll save energy, stay comfortable, and avoid those surprise breakdowns when the temperature drops.