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HVAC Struggling to Keep Up with the Cold?

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It seems like the North Texas winters keep getting colder and colder every year. Many residents are facing a common problem: their HVAC systems simply can’t keep up with the cold weather to keep their homes warm. We’ve listed some of the most common reasons a heating system can be inadequate and what can be done to fix that.

Older Systems

Older systems can come with an entire host of problems. Old systems that rely on a mechanical thermostat rely on a spring that expands and contracts depending on the temperature, which sends signals to your heating unit. These springs are more prone to fail than a modern digital thermostat.

Another issue with aged systems is that they may not be big enough. As homes age, they tend to be less efficient. More drafts from leaky windows, doors, and heat loss from insufficient insulation could all be placing more stress on your heating system than it was originally designed for.

Dirty Air Filters

Maintenance is a key component to keeping your HVAC system running at its best. Replacing dirty air filters is a vital piece of maintenance because your HVAC system is only as good as its vents. If the vents are clogged, none of the warm air generated by your HVAC system will make it into the house and this will instead place heavy stress on your system.

Another possibility related to blockages is that your air ducts need to be cleared. Over time, dust and debris can build up in your air ducts. If you can hear your system running but cannot feel air coming out of the vents despite a clean filter, call a professional to come inspect your air ducts and clear any blockages.

Leaks and Drafts

This one is related to having an older HVAC system installed. The older the home itself, the more heat loss is typically felt by the residents. Older homes tend to be less insulated, have drafts around doorways and windows, and other general gaps in the home. Getting your home reinsulated or having an AC professional come and inspect your home for drafts that can be sealed could be the key to staying warm. It’s also a great way to increase your home’s efficiency and keep your electric bill low through the winter.

If your HVAC unit is having trouble keeping up with the cold this year, call Ideal Partners for a free estimate to either replace your current unit, or have it inspected to find the source of your problem.

An image of a air conditioners thermostat on the wall

Getting Your HVAC System Winter Ready

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Getting your system ready early before winter hits allows you time to get a professional to perform maintenance if you encounter problems so that your system is good to go for winter.

What you can do

Before you start doing anything, make sure to turn off your HVAC system. Don’t start to move anything until you hear the blower turn off.

To perform a quick check, start by changing out the air filters. This should be done at least every three months to ensure the highest efficiency from your HVAC unit. Be sure to listen for banging or rattling, leaks around windows and vents, and signs of moisture from on the vent pipes like rust. All of these could be indicative of problems in your unit that an HVAC technician would need to look at.

You should also make sure that the heater even comes on. Don’t wait until winter to find out that something is wrong. Switch your thermostat to heat and set the temperature a couple of degrees above the room temperature to see if the heat comes on.

You should finish by checking the batteries on your carbon monoxide alarms and use the test feature to make sure the alarm sounds. You can also test the igniter switch or pilot light for your system to make sure it’s ready to start up your system. Lastly, before your first freeze, be sure to cover your AC condenser unit with a flat lid or plywood to make sure so and ice do not build up inside it.

What to have done

There are a bevy of items that need to be serviced. Both the heat exchanger and blower motor for your furnace may need to be inspected annually. Check your owner’s manual to see what the maintenance standards are for your system and call a professional if you aren’t sure if your system has been checked in a while.

Preventative maintenance will go a long way in lengthening the life of your HVAC system and ensure that you aren’t left out in the cold when winter comes along. If you want certified professionals to make sure your HVAC system is ready to go for the winter, give Ideal Partners a call today for a free estimate.