Winter has hit North Texas in full force, and as a homeowner, you may have noticed some things going on with your HVAC system that are less than ideal. We all know this season can bring about its fair share of challenges. If you fail to deal with them properly, your family could be vulnerable to the harsh elements.
But there’s no need to worry because you have Empire Heating & Air looking out for you! This month’s article will explore common winter HVAC problems and provide easy-to-follow prevention tips. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or just starting out, this quick and informative guide can help you stay warm and worry-free until spring.
Frozen Pipes
Picture a frosty winter morning. You get up, shuffle to the kitchen, and try to fill the coffee pot with water, but … the tap is dry!
Now you’re hit with the realization that you probably have frozen pipes. When the temperature drops outside (particularly at night), the water inside your pipes can freeze. Worse yet, the ice expands and can potentially burst your pipes! Not only is your household without water, but now you face some expensive repairs.
Prevention Tips: To keep your pipes from turning into popsicles, follow these steps:
- Insulate exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas like basements and attics.
- Keep your thermostat set to a reasonable temperature, even when you leave the house. This helps maintain consistent warmth.
- Consider opening cabinet doors under sinks to let warm indoor air circulate the pipes.
- If you have outdoor spigots, drain the water lines and turn them off to prevent freezing.
- Let a slow trickle of water run through the faucets during particularly frigid nights to help prevent freezing.
Uneven Heating
Have you ever experienced the frustration of one room feeling like a walk-in freezer while the next room feels like a sauna? Uneven heating is a common issue in winter and can make your home feel less comfortable.
Prevention Tips: Here’s what you can do to ensure your home is evenly heated:
- Regularly change or clean your air filters. Dirty filters can hinder airflow and lead to inconsistent heating.
- Check that furniture or other items are not blocking your heating vents, as this can disrupt the distribution of warm air.
- If these steps don’t solve the problem, give us a call so we can inspect your system for any hidden issues.
Malfunctioning Thermostat
Your thermostat is like the conductor of an orchestra, and even the best of them can sometimes get a little off-beat. Over time, wires may come loose, sensors may malfunction, or chips might fail. These seemingly minor problems can seriously reduce your system’s ability to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Prevention Tips: Keep your thermostat in tip-top shape with these suggestions:
- Regularly clean and calibrate your thermostat, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for improved efficiency and savings.
- If problems persist, call Empire Heating & Air so we can figure out the issue and fix it.
Carbon Monoxide Leaks
Safety should always be a top priority for your HVAC system, especially during winter when furnaces and heat pumps work overtime. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if not detected in time.
Prevention Tips: Protect your home and loved ones with these safety measures:
- Install carbon monoxide detectors near bedrooms and living areas.
- Regularly test and replace the batteries in your CO detectors.
- If you hear four beeps and then a pause from your detector, it indicates CO, and you should leave your home immediately and call emergency services.
Dirty Air Filters
Your HVAC system needs to breathe. When neglected, the air filter in your heating system becomes dirty, and the airflow through the machine is stifled. This causes your system to work harder and less efficiently.
Prevention Tips: Keep your system running smoothly by:
- Regularly inspect and replace air filters at least every 90 days. We recommend every 30 days if you have children, pets, or smokers in the house.
- Use quality air filters with the correct MERV rating. If you go cheap on filters, you’ll pay for it in the long run.
Winter & Summer Tune Ups
One of the best things you can do for your HVAC system is keep it properly maintained. This helps with efficiency, lifespan, and, of course… proper function.
If you aren’t on an Empire Heating & Air maintenance plan, give us a call. We’ll get you signed up so that your machine is well taken care of.
We will come out twice per year (spring & fall) so that you can rest easy that your HVAC is ready to face the harsh Texas summers and winters.
Best of all, preventive maintenance will save you money… on energy bills, as well as on repairs in the future.
Final Thoughts
With these simple tips and preventive measures, you can tackle common winter HVAC problems like a pro. Keeping your HVAC system in top shape not only ensures a warm and comfortable home but also helps you avoid unexpected disruptions and costly repairs.
So, confidently embrace the winter season, knowing you’ve covered your HVAC system. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the cozy comfort of your home all winter long!