Each winter, Midwest residents experience brief stretches where temperatures dip sharply into the low single digits or below. These “cold snaps” can kick HVAC systems into overdrive as they work hard to maintain a comfortable climate despite the extreme weather.
When put to the test and forced to run on a near-continuous basis, HVAC systems are at a higher risk of breakdown, which could put your family in an uncomfortable and even dangerous situation. This article covers several preventative measures you can take to reduce the strain during the frigid days.
Seal Leaks and Insulate Your Home
When sub-zero temperatures hit, drafty areas are quickly exposed. Typically, windows and doors are the first places homeowners should check for leaks, but garages, chimneys, and plumbing vents may also let in cold air.
Once you have those leaks sealed up, consider areas where you may want to add extra insulation. For example, attics and floors above unheated spaces (like the garage). Over time, adding insulation will pay off through lower energy bills and reduced strain on your HVAC system.
Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance
Nobody expects their heating system is going to fail. But if you haven’t had a qualified technician look over your HVAC components in years, you’re susceptible to breakdowns at the worst possible times.
Routine maintenance ensures your HVAC system is running efficiently and can help identify potential issues before they become costly problems.
For complete peace of mind, consider scheduling a professional tune-up before winter starts or explore annual maintenance plans that offer discounts, priority scheduling, and regular service appointments!
Use a Programmable Thermostat Wisely
A programmable or smart thermostat can automate your home’s temperature regulation, which is particularly beneficial during periods of extreme heat or cold. During cold snaps, these devices can help you maintain a consistent, moderate temperature, saving your HVAC system from working overtime to heat a significantly colder space.
Program your thermostat to lower the temperature slightly at night or when you’re away. But be careful not to let your home get too cold, as this can strain the system when reheating.
Utilize Ceiling Fans for Better Circulation
Ceiling fans get a lot of love in the summer, but real indoor climate experts also know how valuable they are in colder months! All you have to do is put it in reverse.
Recall what you probably learned in a sixth-grade science lesson: heat rises. That means by reversing the fan’s direction (to clockwise), you’ll push warm air from the ceiling back down into the living area. This adjustment helps distribute heat more evenly, reducing the workload on your HVAC system.
Replace or Clean Air Filters Regularly
Your air filter is essential to enhancing your home’s indoor air quality as it reduces the volume of dirt, dust, dander, and other contaminants circulating throughout the house. But these particles build up over time, limiting your filter’s effectiveness and forcing your HVAC system to work even harder to maintain your desired temperature.
Cold snaps inherently stress your furnace. Adding a clogged filter to the equation increases the chances that your system could fail at the worst possible time. The best-case scenario is that you’ll pay more for your energy bill due to decreased efficiency – a lose-lose situation.
The good news is that replacing your filter is one of the easiest (and most cost-effective) tasks on your home maintenance to-do list. Check and replace your HVAC filters monthly, especially during high-usage periods like winter. Or, if you’d prefer a longer-lasting solution that delivers better performance, explore the benefits of AprilAire media cabinet filters that can perform at peak capacity for up to a year.
Keep Vents and Ducts Clear
Maximizing airflow can reduce your heating system’s workload. That’s why you should always ensure vents are open and free from furniture (couches and headboards specifically), rugs, or other blockages.
Another factor impacting air circulation is your home’s ductwork. If you’ve experienced any symptoms of blockage like uneven temperature distribution, reduced airflow, or higher-than-expected energy bills, consider calling in a professional cleaning team.
Monitor and Address Humidity Levels
Humidity may not change the temperature, but it certainly affects how it feels. Cold air tends to be dry, making your home feel colder. In addition, dry skin, respiratory irritation, and other uncomfortable issues can also be attributed to low indoor humidity. As a general guideline, we recommend aiming for humidity levels between 40-60%.
Hoock’s Heating & Cooling offers whole-home humidification solutions, making it easier than ever to maintain optimal levels in your home…without needing to haul portable humidifiers from room to room!
Prepare for Extreme Winter Weather with Hoock’s Heating and Cooling
The best defense against extreme winter weather is a proactive approach to HVAC maintenance. St. Louis residents trust Hoock’s Heating & Cooling for their furnaces because we have the local experience required to deliver cost-effective solutions that improve your home’s energy efficiency, comfort, and indoor air quality throughout every season.
If you’re ready to prepare your HVAC system for whatever winter has in store, schedule your repair or routine maintenance appointment today.