Snow and ice can wreak havoc on your HVAC system in several ways. There’s a real possibility that you may have to spend on untimely replacements if you don’t look after your equipment. To learn how to protect your HVAC from snow and ice to avoid untimely replacements, read on!
The Impact of Snow and Ice on Your HVAC system
Your unit is made to withstand the snow. However, snow and ice buildup may cause your system to freeze, prompting an emergency shutdown. It will cut off heat to your home.
The icicles that have accumulated above your outdoor unit may also fall and cause damage to the system. This often leads to a costly, unplanned replacement.
Snow can block the vent pipe, too. Your furnace will shut down as a safety precaution. Blockage around the exhaust pipe may also decrease your energy efficiency and introduce dangerous gasses – such as carbon monoxide- into your home.
Melting ice that has leaked, solidified, and expanded into your system will waste energy, and may cause damage or failure.
How to Protect Your HVAC System This Winter
1. Keep the space around your HVAC system clear to avoid any damage that may incur from snow and ice build-up. Tree branches must be removed before the first snowfall.
Clearing leaves, dirt and debris away from the unit helps prevent ventilation blockage and leakage that may cause your system to malfunction.
2. Use covers made only with breathable material on your outdoor unit. Any type of plastic, or covering that may restrict airflow, shouldn’t be used, as it can result in rusting and internal moisture damage.
To shield your outdoor unit from snow and ice, place plywood on top of it. Secure the plywood in place with hollow blocks.
Rodents and pests may also nest inside a covered HVAC unit, so be on the lookout for them.
3. Install wood awnings and shelters that cover only the top of your HVAC equipment, not the sides.
Obstructing all sides of the unit can increase the cost of operation and shorten the lifespan of your HVAC system. So make sure there’s adequate clearance around the unit for proper airflow.
HVAC REPLACEMENT NEAR ME: Avoid untimely replacements
Without proper protection from snow and ice, your HVAC system can get easily damaged. The best way to avoid untimely replacements is protecting your equipment. It’s also smart to schedule maintenance before a small problem gets worse and causes further damage.
Book a Good Guy and we’ll make sure your HVAC system achieves maximum efficiency, and your home stays warm, comfortable, and safe. We’ll repair and maintain your system, so you avoid paying for a replacement before it’s necessary.
If a replacement is absolutely needed, our knowledgeable, experienced technicians can also help. We’ll provide custom HVAC solutions to turn your home into an oasis of comfort, with your unique needs and budget in mind.
Schedule your appointment through our exclusive Good Guys Home Services Mobile app or fill out our online form for faster service.
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