HVAC systems are a basic household necessity that we require in America. However, did you know that since furnaces are so highly used during the winter, it is common for them to malfunction right around this time of the year? It makes sense if you stop to think about it. As the weather gets colder, we tend to increase the temperature on our thermostats. So, our furnaces are constantly running and, in some cases, can get overworked. Don’t get us wrong, though; this is the purpose of a heating system, after all. But this is also why preventative maintenance is crucial. No matter what, sometimes unpredictable situations still arise, and we must be prepared for them. So, without further ado, here are seven insightful reasons from your Grove City Heating & Air professionals on why your HVAC system may act up this winter.
1. ARE YOUR AIR FILTERS CLOGGED?
The purpose of an HVAC system’s air filter is to catch and trap loose dust and other airborne particles that may be floating around your home. An air filter should be regularly changed out every 1-2 months, but if you are experiencing issues with your HVAC system, clogged air filters can cause a multitude of HVAC issues, such as how overloaded air filters can cause decreased airflow or poor indoor air quality or lead to an overworked furnace. So, double-checking the air filter first wouldn’t hurt!
2. ARE THE THERMOSTAT BATTERIES DUE FOR A CHANGE?
A thermostat is the standard component of your HVAC system that functions to regulate the different desired temperatures and settings. Therefore, if the thermostat isn’t operating as it should, naturally, it makes sense that the heating system won’t perform correctly. First, check to see if the thermostat turns on and responds to the different controls. A malfunctioning thermostat may simply need to be cleaned or requires a new set of batteries to be put in. It may also need to be recalibrated. Keep in mind that if your thermostat is still not responding at this point, this is a good indication that you may need to call a professional if your thermostat needs to be replaced.
3. ARE YOUR HVAC PIPES FROZEN?
Frozen HVAC pipes are another common HVAC problem that takes place in the wintertime, especially here in Ohio! Freezing temperatures can cause the water inside your system’s pipes or coils to freeze up, and on particularly cold nights, combined with a bit of bad luck and accumulated pressure, they can burst. Of course, this is not a desirable situation we wish upon any homeowner. So, as this may be the source of your HVAC woes, give us a call as soon as you can!
4. ARE YOU EXPERIENCING UNEVEN AIRFLOW OR AIRFLOW RESTRICTION?
Have you ever sat in a particular room in your home only to be frustrated because it feels drafty and uncomfortable? This can really be frustrating. If this is something you might be dealing with at the moment, you are probably experiencing this for one of two reasons. One could be due to uneven airflow due to an air leak which causes drafts, so be sure to check that all your windows are properly sealed with no gaps or cracks in between them. The second reason could be airflow restriction. If this is the case, you should check all the vents in this room and ensure that no vents are closed or have obstructions over or in front of them to block the line of airflow.
5. ARE THERE ISSUES WITH THE PILOT LIGHT?
Older gas and propane furnaces require a pilot light to operate. So, if you are experiencing issues with your furnace running but not giving off heat, you may be dealing with an unlit pilot light. “How did this occur?” You might be wondering. The reasons are two-fold. It’s possible that a draft blew by and blew out the pilot light. Or if the sensor is damaged, this would cause the pilot light to go out. Of course, there’s no way of knowing until you try to relight it. If you feel comfortable, you can try relighting it yourself. There should be instructions from the manufacturer on the furnace’s side. If this doesn’t fix the issue, it’s time to call in a service professional.
6. ARE THERE ISSUES WITH YOUR HEAT PUMP?
Heat pumps are another HVAC component that is susceptible to frosting over. Many heat pump models come with an automatic defrosting feature, but if yours doesn’t have this, and you think your heat pump may have frozen due to frost or ice, this is something you don’t want to postpone calling a professional for.
7. ARE THERE PROBLEMS WITH CYCLING?
Cycling is the process in which your HVAC system is stuck in a continuous loop of powering off and on again. In short, you’re throwing money out the window on wasted, misplaced energy. So, if you are dealing with system issues, you should try changing out your air filter if you haven’t already. A clogged air filter can confuse your system, sending mixed signals to the system when the airflow is obstructed.
The harsh weather of Ohio in the winter can summon a plethora of HVAC issues to your household. This is why preventative maintenance is key! However, sometimes some situations can’t be avoided no matter what, and sometimes you just have to roll with the punches. Stay informed with these tips from your Grove City Heating & Air experts. If you are experiencing any issues with your HVAC system this winter and cannot today pinpoint what is going on and the problem still persists, give us a call at (614) 490-7540, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!
