How to Prevent Common HVAC Problems During Extreme Weather?
Extreme weather can damage your HVAC system. Whether it's the icy chill of winter or the blistering heat of summer, your system works overtime to keep your home comfortable.
However, these extreme conditions can strain your HVAC system, leading to potential breakdowns and higher energy usage.
By understanding how to prevent common HVAC issues during harsh weather, you can keep your system running efficiently all year.
In this blog, the experts at Tiger Heating, Plumbing, & Air share essential strategies to safeguard your HVAC system and offer tips for maintaining reliable performance throughout the year.
How Can I Prepare My HVAC System for Winter?
Winter can significantly stress your HVAC system, particularly if it's improper maintenance. To prepare for the colder months, the first step is scheduling a professional HVAC inspection to ensure all components function properly.
This includes inspecting for optimized calibration via:
- Checking the furnace
- Heat pump
- Thermostat settings
Replace Filters
A clogged filter can reduce airflow and cause your system to work harder than necessary, increasing wear and tear.
Inspecting for Leaks
Even small gaps in your ductwork can cause heat loss, forcing your system to use more energy to maintain comfortable temperatures.
Invest in Insulation
Insulating your ducts and home can also help prevent cold drafts and improve overall heating efficiency.
Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors and Clear Obstructions
Heating systems can produce carbon monoxide during the colder months, so test out detectors and clear any obstructions around the HVAC vents, registers, and outdoor units to ensure proper airflow to the system.
Call an Expert
Additionally, scheduling regular maintenance before winter can help avoid costly breakdowns.
What Are the Most Common HVAC Issues During Heatwaves?
Heatwaves can be particularly tough on HVAC systems, as they must run continuously to maintain cooler indoor temperatures.
One common issue is refrigerant leaks, which can significantly reduce your system's cooling capacity. Low refrigerant levels lead to inefficient cooling, higher energy bills, and additional strain on the system.
If your unit is struggling to cool your home, it’s essential to have a professional check the refrigerant levels and repair any leaks.
Another frequent problem during heatwaves is frozen evaporator coils. This can happen when the system is overworked, or the airflow is restricted due to dirty filters or clogged ducts. When this occurs, the coils freeze, and the system struggles to cool the air, eventually leading to a breakdown.
Replacing filters and ensuring proper airflow are critical to preventing this issue.
Thermostat malfunctions are also common during extreme heat, particularly in older systems. A malfunctioning thermostat can cause the system to cycle improperly, leading to uneven cooling or constant running.
Regularly checking your thermostat settings and replacing outdated units can help prevent this issue.
How Do I Protect My Outdoor HVAC Unit from Snow and Ice?
Snow and ice can cause significant damage to your outdoor HVAC unit, especially if it’s not adequately protected. To safeguard your unit during winter, it's important to cover it with a breathable, waterproof cover that prevents snow accumulation while allowing moisture to escape.
This can prevent the buildup of ice that could freeze the system's coils or fan blades, leading to damage and operational issues.
In addition to covering the unit, clearing snow and debris from around it is crucial. If snow piles up around the base, it can block airflow, causing the system to overheat or shut down.
Regularly checking the area around your unit and ensuring it's clear of obstructions will help maintain proper airflow.
Installing a raised platform for your unit can keep it off the ground and away from potential snow accumulation. This added height can improve airflow and reduce the chances of ice forming around the system.
Ensuring proper drainage around the unit is essential to prevent standing water from freezing and damaging the HVAC equipment.
What Are the Signs of HVAC Strain During Extreme Temperatures?
Your HVAC system may show several signs of strain during extreme temperatures, which can help you address problems before they worsen.
Uneven Heating
If certain rooms are consistently warmer or cooler than others, this may indicate airflow issues or system inefficiencies that need attention.
Strange Noises
Another sign is unusual noises coming from your HVAC system. Grinding, banging, or squealing sounds can signal that your system is working harder than usual due to excessive component wear.
Dirty filters, faulty parts, or ductwork obstructions can cause these, and they should all be addressed promptly.
Increased Energy Bills
Additionally, a spike in your energy bills during extreme weather can indicate that your HVAC system is overworking to maintain a consistent temperature.
How Can I Ensure Consistent HVAC Performance Year-Round?
Ensuring consistent HVAC performance year-round requires a combination of regular maintenance, system upgrades, and mindful operation. Scheduling seasonal tune-ups for your heating and cooling systems will allow professionals to inspect and optimize components, preventing potential issues before they arise.
These tune-ups also ensure that the system is ready to handle the demands of changing temperatures.
Regular filter replacement is one of the simplest and most effective ways to ensure consistent airflow and performance. Depending on usage and the type of filter, filters should be changed every 1-3 months.
Keeping your outdoor unit clean and free of debris year-round will also help maintain proper airflow and prevent overheating or freezing issues.
Additionally, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat, which allows you to schedule temperature changes and optimize energy use based on your daily routine.
Let Tiger Keep Your HVAC System Running Great All-Year Round
At Tiger Services, we understand the importance of keeping your HVAC system running smoothly during extreme weather conditions. Whether you're preparing for winter, handling the challenges of heatwaves, or looking to protect your outdoor unit from snow and ice, our team is here to help.
Since 2001, our expert team has been offering inspections, maintenance services, repairs, and installations - ensuring your HVAC and plumbing system performs efficiently year-round and keeping your home comfortable.
Don't hesitate to reach out if you notice signs of HVAC strain or need help preparing your system for extreme temperatures. Contact us online for a free estimate or give our Eden Prarie office a call at 612-445-3030 for expert assistance,