A frozen HVAC unit can affect your home comfort and increase your utility bills. Fortunately, there are ways to protect your unit from freezing up in the winter. Read on for some useful tips to avoid a frozen HVAC.
1. Change Your Filter Regularly
A clogged air filter restricts airflow. Limited airflow around a heat pump can make it freeze. You should check your filter regularly and replace it as needed. Nevertheless, an air-filter model that’s too restrictive can also cause your HVAC unit to freeze up. For that reason, ensure you invest in a filter model that’s ideal for your unit.
2. Schedule Maintenance Regularly
In most instances of homeowners facing frozen HVAC units, a routine check could have prevented the issue. Scheduling routine HVAC maintenance with a licensed professional is an excellent way of preventing performance woes. During routine checkups, your HVAC specialist will provide the preparation needed to keep your system running at its best throughout the year.
3. Avoid Ice and Snow Buildup
Snow and ice can cover your HVAC unit to the point where the system freezes or undergoes an emergency shutdown. Your home will stop receiving heat, and your pipes could freeze as a result. You can keep ice and snow buildup from damaging your system by keeping the area around your unit clear.
When expecting several feet of snow or after a big snowstorm, it’s a good idea to clear about 18 inches of space around your unit. Don’t use sharp items to remove snow or ice because you could damage the fins and coils.
4. Keep the Air-Intake Vent and Exhaust Clear
Snow can block your heating system’s exhaust and intake vents. Be sure to keep the exhaust and intake pipes free and clear.
Remember that while your HVAC system is designed to withstand extreme weather, it can be damaged by ice and snow buildup and failure to provide proper care. If you have any questions about frozen HVAC systems or any other HVAC issues, contact Ace Hardware Home Services. We’ve been helping Dayton-area homeowners with their heating and cooling issues since 1978.
