Replacing an HVAC system can be prohibitively expensive. According to HomeAdvisor, replacement costs range from $5,000 to $10,000 — a hefty price tag for any household. However, failing to properly winterize units can lead to major problems and the very real possibility of replacing your system. Learn what frigid cold temperatures and winter weather can do to your system and the best ways to prevent weather-related damages.
Debris May Buildup In Your Unit, Affecting Its Performance Over Time
Does it feel like your unit is working less efficiently over time? If your HVAC system is producing less and less heat, it is not necessarily time to call HVAC installation services. Instead, it is often possible to resolve the issue with a quick HVAC repair and some careful steps moving forward.
The majority of modern HVAC units include a condenser or a large unit with coils enclosed in a cage-like structure. While this unit is built to withstand extreme weather, it is still possible for dirt, leaves, and branches to get stuck inside. If that happens, it may cause your unit to produce less heat, and, ultimately, it can cause your unit to shut down altogether. Excessive ice or trapped moisture can also cause your unit to fail.
Cover Your Outdoor AC Unit
If you’re part of the 84% of Americans who have air conditioning in your home, you should buy an AC unit cover to use once you’re absolutely sure you won’t need your AC unit for the next few cold months. You should cover your condenser with a breathable and sound fabric to protect your system from further wear and tear. This can help prevent any debris build up during the winter and prevent any storm damage that can come from the snow and ice.
Cold Temperatures May Cause Your Heat Pump To Fail
In order to function properly, heat pumps must remain free of frost and excessive moisture. Thanks to the cold winter months, that doesn’t always happen. If your heat pump is freezing over, it is time to service your HVAC system. A professional can help you repair or install a new defroster unit to regulate your heat pump’s temperature and ensure that it is working properly.
Winter Overworks HVAC Filters
During especially cold winters, your HVAC system and filters may be running around-the-clock — or close to it. This causes the entire system to work harder, and it increases the likelihood that excess dust and dirt will build up in your filter and begin to clog your unit. Clear away the debris and replace filters frequently, especially if you use your system more frequently in winter months.
Is It Time For Replacement?
If your HVAC system has barely been holding on for the past few years, it may be the best option to cut your losses and maintenance time by replacing your system. This is usually a desirable option if your system is over 10 years old and you find yourself calling for an HVAC repair more often than you would like. If you are replacing your system, consider going for a high-efficiency model. These can help you save a lot of energy and money when it comes to heating and cooling your home.
Check On Your Attic
If your HVAC system seems to be overworking itself, but it isn’t time for a replacement, you could have a lot of heat escaping your home through your attic and roof. Because hot air rises, an improperly insulated attic or roof can mean a lot of wasted energy. When you have a lot of heat escaping through the roof, your HVAC system will have to work harder to get to the temperature that you want it set at, which leads to problems.
Worried About Your System? Get an Inspection
If you think something might be wrong with your system, but you can’t figure out what it is or how to fix it, it’s a good idea to hire an HVAC repair specialist to come and inspect your system. With an inspection, you can find out what exactly is wrong with your system and get a quote for how much the problems would cost to fix. You can also find out if it’s an issue that came from not performing routine maintenance so you can prevent making the same mistake in the future.
Is winter taking its toll on your HVAC system? Know the problems to look out for, and be sure to call HVAC installation services and HVAC repair services if your unit is not functioning properly.
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