At Xenia Heating & Air, ensuring that your home is comfortable during wintertime is our top priority. You might take steps to prevent issues with your furnace by doing things like regularly scheduling maintenance visits, but even Ohio’s most frigid winter weather can cause problems for heating systems. Sometimes, there’s just no way around it! In this article, we’ll share some of the most common HVAC issues that tend to pop up during colder months.
1. Why might a thermostat stop working?
One of the main reasons why HVAC systems break down is because of a faulty thermostat. In many cases, it’s simply because the batteries are dead. So, if you think your HVAC system might be having issues, start by checking your thermostat. Make sure it responds and turns on when settings are changed. If new batteries don’t help and the thermostat still isn’t working properly, then it would be a good idea to consult with a licensed specialist for further guidance. Your thermostat could be malfunctioning due to a wiring issue or another underlying reason.
2. WHY SHOULD YOU CHANGE YOUR AIR FILTER?
Although you may not be able to see them, there are always tiny particles suspended in the air. Though air pollution and pollen are more prominent in the summertime, it’s definitely still a possibility in the winter. Therefore, your air filters need to be taken care of and followed up on just as much. To keep your system running smoothly and prevent damage, replace your air filters every one to two months. So, what can happen if your furnace’s air filter becomes full of dust and debris? Good question! Well, it can actually restrict airflow or cause your furnace to cycle frequently. Neither of which we recommend trying out if prevention is a possibility!
3. WHY DO HVAC PIPES OR COILS FREEZE UP?
Homeowners in Ohio often need to cope with frozen HVAC coils and pipes during winter. Naturally, this is due to the frigid temperatures. However, you can take some preventative action to reduce the likelihood of this occurring. If you think your pipes might already be frozen over, switch off your system immediately and give the pipes time to thaw out gradually. If the issue continues, please contact a professional like Xenia Heating & Air for immediate assistance. Furthermore, we recommend using pipe insulation as it’s a simple, effective way to decrease the chances of future freezing or piping problems.
4. WHY SHOULD YOU SCHEDULE YOUR SEASONAL CHECK BEFORE WINTER?
We understand that it can be troublesome to book a service during the winter, but it is still better than risking your furnace running out of fuel. To avoid this problem, we recommend having your seasonal tune-up and safety check performed in the fall. This allows us to complete a thorough inspection of your furnace before winter sets in. Our NATE-certified technicians will make sure your heating system is running efficiently and has enough fuel so that you don’t have any stressful surprises this winter! You and your family will be able to rest easy knowing that you’ll be cozy all season long. But don’t despair if you haven’t had this check completed yet; there’s still time. Call us today, and we will get you squared away.
5. WHY WOULD A FURNACE BLOW COLD AIR?
Don’t be alarmed if your furnace starts producing cold air. This too is another common problem we see often. Oftentimes, the problem can easily be fixed by relighting the pilot light – unless there is a deeper system-related cause. If you’re feeling confident enough to relight it yourself, go ahead and give it a try. Always prioritize safety, though. The manufacturer should have placed relighting directions for your furnace’s pilot light on the side of the unit for your reference. Though, if this doesn’t resolve your issue, please give us a call!
6. WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING?
Not easily detectable by human senses, carbon monoxide is a poisonous gas. But by having a carbon monoxide detector in your home, you can be made aware of its presence and rest easier knowing your family is protected. The great news is that carbon monoxide detectors are inexpensive and easily attainable at any local home improvement store or online.
7. WHY WOULD YOUR ENERGY BILL BE HIGHER IN THE WINTER?
Did you know that cracks and holes in your home’s ductwork, doors, and windows result in air leakage? It wastes energy and raises your utility bills. However, by examining your home and checking for holes and gaps around windows and doors, you can detect these problem spots, fix them, and improve efficiency in both your home’s heating and cooling – thus saving money on your monthly energy bill.
Whenever your HVAC system needs a little assistance, Xenia Heating & Air will always be available to help. We understand that emergencies happen outside of normal business hours, which is why we are open 24/7, 365 days a year. We can be reached at (937) 764-3575, or schedule an appointment online now by clicking here!