Winter is Here! Prevent these Common HVAC Problems, Ensuring a Warm & Safe Winter

In the winter, when temperatures plummet, your home heating unit can really take a beating. Fortunately, there are ways to keep your system running steadily through the season. What are the secrets to avoiding common winter HVAC problems and ensuring a warm, comfortable home?

Winter Heating System Problems & How to Prevent Them

• Problem: Insufficient airflow through the system.
  When airflow is decreased, your home won’t feel as warm.
  Solution: Regularly change your home air filter.
  As your air filter catches dust, pollen, and microbes, these contaminants buildup, restricting airflow through your HVAC system over time and forcing it to work harder to heat your home. Changing your filter every 1-3 months is easy and inexpensive, increasing heating system performance and efficiency.
• Problem: Heating system won’t turn on.
  Frigid, icy weather can wreak havoc on heat pump systems, causing the coils and fans in your outdoor unit to freeze.
  Solution: Schedule professional maintenance before cold weather hits.
  The automatic defrost system of properly running systems usually addresses this. Routine service before the start of the season will ensure all system components are operating properly.
• Problem: Thermostat malfunction.
  Your thermostat isn’t working properly, or settings don’t seem to reflect reality.
  Solution: Schedule a seasonal HVAC inspection.
  Thermostat issues are incredibly common. Often it’s just a low battery. However, calibration, faulty wiring, and age could also be to blame. Ensure your thermostat is working correctly, calibrating your system and identifying potential problems in advance with a regular HVAC maintenance appointment.
• Problem: Uneven heating throughout the house.
  Uneven heating can make certain rooms in your home cold and uncomfortable.
  Solution: Identify and address ductwork blockages and building envelope leaks.
  Look for leaks around doors, windows, outlets, and venting, which can allow cold drafts into your home, sealing them with weatherstripping, caulk, or spray foam. If leaks are addressed and problems persist, have your ductwork inspected for blockages or leaks.
• Problem: Pilot light is out or won’t stay lit.
  A dirty or damaged furnace flame sensor is frequently the cause of this issue, but avoid DIY service attempts.
  Solution: Routine furnace service.
  Servicing gas appliances comes with a risk of fire and explosion, making professional assistance a must. Your local HVAC professional can address this for you in a snap, getting your pilot light and home furnace running steadily again. As with other issues, routine maintenance in the fall can head off this issue at the pass.
• Problem: Carbon monoxide alarm activates.
  Ventilation blockages and cracked components can lead to CO leaks in combustion appliances.
  Solution: Evacuate all family members and pets from your home immediately and call for help.
  Don’t return to your home until a furnace professional has identified the issue and given you the all-clear.

Prevent common winter heating system problems with the help of H & H Heating & Air Conditioning. Contact us to schedule a seasonal inspection or system maintenance today.

This blog was originally posted on https://www.delcohvac.com/blog/winter-is-here-prevent-these-common-hvac-problems-ensuring-a-warm-safe-winter/