When extreme weather hits, it can feel like the universe is testing your patience—and your HVAC system. Whether you’re facing a blistering heatwave or a frigid cold snap, your HVAC system is your unsung hero, working hard to keep you comfortable. But like any hero, it needs a bit of prep work to be at its best. Here’s how you can get your HVAC system ready for extreme weather, plus some handy emergency steps if things don’t go as planned.
1. Schedule Regular Maintenance
Why It’s Important: Just like a car needs regular tune-ups, your HVAC system needs routine check-ups to ensure it’s running smoothly. Regular maintenance helps catch potential issues before they turn into big problems, ensuring your system is ready to handle whatever weather comes its way.
What to Do:
- Book a Service Appointment: Aim for a maintenance check in the fall for heating and in the spring for cooling. This way, your system is prepped for the seasonal demands. A yearly maintenance agreement is the best way to ensure optimal performance.
- Clean Filters and Coils: Dirty filters and coils can reduce efficiency and strain your system. Clean or replace filters regularly and schedule a precision tune up with ACKY to ensure the coils are clear and clean for optimal performance.
2. Check and Seal Ductwork
Why It’s Important: Leaky ducts can waste energy and make your system work harder than it needs to. Properly sealed and insulated ducts help maintain efficient airflow and save on energy costs.
What to Do:
- Inspect for Leaks: Look for any visible damage or gaps in your ductwork. You might notice dust or a drop in performance if there’s a leak. Our technicians are trained to evaluate duct performance and can assist with a thorough review.
- Seal Leaks: Use duct tape or mastic sealant to patch up any gaps. This can become a job for skilled hands so consider calling our team to handle it.
3. Insulate and Protect Outdoor Units
Why It’s Important: Outdoor HVAC units are exposed to the elements, which can affect their performance. Proper insulation of freon lines and protection from surrounding overgrowth and falling item help keep them running efficiently no matter the weather.
What to Do:
- Winterize Your Unit: During colder months, cover your outdoor unit with a weather-resistant cover to protect it from snow and ice. Avoid plastic sheeting, as it can trap moisture and cause damage.
- Summer Prep: In hot weather, check the insulation on the freon lines for wear and tear. Keep the area around your outdoor unit clear of debris like weeds, vines, grass and dirt, which can obstruct airflow and affect efficiency.
4. Upgrade to a Programmable Thermostat
Why It’s Important: A programmable thermostat can make a huge difference in managing your home’s temperature efficiently, especially during extreme weather.
What to Do:
- Set Smart Schedules: Program your thermostat to adjust temperatures based on your daily schedule. For example, set it to cool down when you’re away during a heatwave or warm up when you’re coming home on a chilly day.
- Opt for Remote Access: Choose a thermostat that allows remote access from a smart device. This way, you can make adjustments from your smartphone or computer, even if you’re not at home.
5. Ensure Proper Ventilation
Why It’s Important: Good ventilation helps maintain indoor air quality and keeps your home comfortable. Proper airflow prevents issues like excess humidity or poor air circulation, which can be exacerbated by extreme weather.
What to Do:
- Check Vents: Make sure vents are not blocked by furniture or other objects. Blocked vents can restrict airflow and reduce system efficiency.
- Add Ventilation Systems: If you have areas prone to humidity or poor air circulation, consider installing additional ventilation systems to improve airflow and air quality.
6. Have an Emergency Plan
Why It’s Important: Even with the best preparations, emergencies can still happen. Having a plan in place ensures you’re ready to act quickly if your HVAC system fails or encounters issues during extreme weather.
What to Do:
- Schedule routine maintenance: proper maintenance will keep your system in operation and dramatically reduce unexpected outages in service.
- Keep Emergency Contacts: Have the contact information for a reliable HVAC technician readily available. It’s also wise to have a backup plan for heating or cooling, such as space heaters or portable fans.
- Know Your Local Resources: Familiarize yourself with local emergency shelters or resources in case your HVAC system fails and you need immediate assistance.
7. Monitor and Respond to System Alerts
Why It’s Important: Many modern HVAC systems come with built-in alerts for maintenance needs or system issues. Paying attention to these alerts can help you address problems before they become major.
What to Do:
- Enable Alerts: Set up notifications for any system alerts if your HVAC system offers this feature. It’ll keep you informed about any issues as soon as they arise.
- Act Quickly: If you receive an alert, don’t ignore it. Address the issue promptly to avoid further damage and ensure your system remains operational.
Preparing your HVAC system for extreme weather doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By scheduling regular maintenance, checking and sealing ductwork, and taking steps to protect and optimize your system, you can help ensure it performs efficiently when you need it most. And if something goes awry, having a solid emergency plan and knowing how to respond to system alerts will help you stay comfortable and safe no matter what the weather throws your way. Here’s to a well-prepared HVAC system and a cozy home, no matter the season!
