Winter can be especially hard on your HVAC system, resulting in unexpected malfunctions, inefficiencies, and pricey repairs if you’re not prepared. As the temperature drops, your heating system works harder to keep your home warm, and this additional demand can expose flaws in your unit. Cold weather presents a unique set of issues, including frozen pipes, blocked filters, and faulty thermostats. Understanding how winter affects your HVAC system is critical for keeping it functioning efficiently all season.
At Green Dot Heating & Air in Wilmington, NC, we help homeowners take care of their HVAC system and prep it for winter months. Here, we’ll cover how regular maintenance, timely repairs, and preventative measures make a big difference in avoiding painful system breakdowns during frigid weather.
Strain on Your Heating System During Winter
It’s only normal that your heating system will work harder in the winter to keep your home at a comfortable temperature. When it gets really cold outside, your HVAC system has to work for longer periods of time to keep your home warm. Parts like motors, belts, and heat exchanges may wear out faster because of this extra work. Over time, these parts might start to break down, which could lead to less efficiency or even a total breakdown.
Your furnace, whether powered by gas or electricity, also faces additional stress. In extremely cold conditions, the furnace’s heat exchanger works continuously, increasing the likelihood of cracks and other issues. A damaged heat exchanger could result in carbon monoxide leaks, so be aware of any unusual odors or sounds coming from your system.
Snow Buildup
Snow accumulation near your outside HVAC unit can cause a variety of issues, especially if it obstructs ventilation. When snow accumulates around the unit, the system needs to work harder to draw in air, resulting in decreased performance and probable overheating. The weight of the snow could damage to vital components such as fan blades and condenser coils. If snow melts and refreezes, it can cause ice accumulation, reducing airflow and potentially shutting down the system.
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are a common winter hazard, and they can directly impact your HVAC system, especially if you use a heating system that relies on water, such as a boiler or heat pump. As temperatures drop below freezing, the water can freeze inside your pipes. Keeping your home at a consistent temperature is important to prevent frozen pipes, even when you’re not there. Setting your thermostat to 55 degrees Fahrenheit or higher while you’re away can prevent the freezing of water lines. Additionally, insulating any exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, or crawl spaces can provide extra protection against freezing.
Frozen condensate lines are another issue that can cause your HVAC system to malfunction. The condensate line, which removes moisture from your heating system, can freeze during frigid weather. When the line freezes, it can block drainage, leading to water buildup inside the unit. This can cause the system to shut down or even result in water damage. Making sure that condensate lines are well-insulated and checking for ice buildup during extremely cold days can help prevent this problem.
Indoor Air Quality Issues
Indoor air quality suffers during the winter because homes are tightly sealed to conserve heat, resulting in less ventilation. As a result, dust, allergens, and pollutants can accumulate indoors, creating an environment where the air is not as clean or healthy. Your HVAC system is vital to maintaining air quality, but if not properly maintained, it can exacerbate the problem.
One issue is clogged air filters. During winter, your heating system runs more frequently, which means the filters can become dirty faster. A dirty filter restricts airflow, reducing your HVAC system’s efficiency and allowing more dust and pollutants to circulate through your home. During the winter, changing your air filters on a regular basis can make the air quality and system operation much better.
Another contributing factor is dry indoor air. Cold winter air is naturally less humid, and when it’s heated, it becomes even drier. This dry air can make you feel bad by making your skin dry, your eyes irritated, and your lungs hurt. A humidifier can be added to your HVAC system to help keep the humidity level in your home at a healthy level. This not only improves comfort but also helps prevent the spread of viruses, which thrive in dry air.
Additionally, carbon monoxide levels can increase if your furnace or boiler isn’t properly maintained. Poor ventilation or a malfunctioning system can allow this odorless gas to accumulate in your home, posing a serious health risk. We recommend placing carbon monoxide detectors near your HVAC system as a crucial safety measure during the winter months.
Power Outages and System Damage
When the power goes out, especially during prolonged outages, your heating system is left inactive while temperatures inside your home drop. When the power comes back on, a surge of electricity can occur, potentially damaging your HVAC system’s electrical components, such as the thermostat, blower motor, or control board.
A whole-home surge protector can guard not only your HVAC unit but also other major appliances in your home. Additionally, after a power outage, it’s wise to have your system inspected by a professional to ensure that no damage occurs and that it is functioning correctly.
Another potential issue during power outages is frozen pipes, which can happen if your home’s temperature drops too low without heating. If the outage lasts for an extended period, be sure to drain water from your pipes or keep a small trickle of water flowing to prevent freezing.
Rising Energy Bills
As your HVAC system works harder to combat cold weather, it can become less efficient, which in turn leads to higher energy bills. There are several reasons why your system might become less efficient during the winter months, but one of the most common is poor insulation in your home. Improving insulation in critical places such as attics, basements, and around windows and doors can reduce heat loss while increasing overall system performance.
Leaks in your ductwork might also lead to inefficiency. When hot air escapes through gaps or breaks in the ductwork, your HVAC system must compensate by performing longer cycles, increasing energy usage. Sealing and insulating your ducts can reduce leaks and improve warm air distribution throughout your home.
Another element influencing efficiency is old equipment. If your HVAC system is older, it may be less energy efficient than modern models. Upgrading to a more energy-efficient furnace, heat pump, or boiler can significantly reduce your energy expenditures. While the initial cost of a new system can be high, the long-term savings on energy bills and increased comfort in your home may make it a good investment.
Contact Us Today
You can keep your unit run smoothly and help it withstand the demands of winter by scheduling routine maintenance, inspecting filters, and ensuring your system is in good shape before the cold weather arrives. If you discover any concerns, please call an expert to check and fix your system.
Contact Green Dot Heating & Air today to make sure your heating system is ready for the winter months ahead. We also offer electrical, indoor air quality, ductwork, ductless mini splits, smart thermostats, and HVAC zoning services.
