Common HVAC Winter Problems to Look Out For

You have probably been stuck in a vehicle in the winter with a malfunctioning heating system or experienced a car battery refusing to start. Did you know that can happen to your home when the temperature drops? There are many common winter problems people experience with their heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems when it gets below zero outside. Here is a list of things to look out for so you are not trapped in a freezing house this winter.Faulty ThermostatsSometimes the issue with the heating and cooling systems in your home is not the devices themselves but rather the thermostat controlling them. Sometimes faulty thermostats cause short-cycling, which means your thermostat gets too warm or cool quickly and turns off the system before it is at the desired temperature. If your thermostat isn’t working correctly, your home will end up being either way too cold or warm, which leads to issues in the winter. This issue can be solved by replacing your thermostat or changing the position your thermostat is in.Frozen PipesA Midwesterner’s greatest nightmare is frozen pipes. If you notice a lack of running water, the temperature is not right or is never heating up, frost on pipes, or strange smells, you may have a frozen pipe. Pipes freeze over in severe winter weather conditions like low temperatures or a lot of snow. If you notice a pipe is frozen, you should act quickly so that you do not have a pipe burst, which is a very costly repair. You can attempt to dethaw the pipe yourself, but you should call a professional plumber to be safe.Broken Heat PumpDoes your home use a heat pump to stay warm during the winter months? If so, be cautious of the risks that come with one. Snowfall, ice, and cold temperatures can damage heat pumps and cause them to underperform. It is common for heat pumps to get frost buildup in the wintertime because the coils and fan cannot keep up. If you notice your heat pump is malfunctioning, you may have to remove the frost yourself.No one wants to be left in the cold in the middle of winter, so if your HVAC systems are acting up, call Finken. We have trained professionals who are ready to help with any problem. From faulty thermostats, frozen pipes, to broken heat pumps, we’ve got you covered. When it comes to your vehicle, though, you might need to call someone else.