How Can I Prepare My HVAC System for Inclement Weather?
As Coloradans prepare to transition from one season to the next, planning ahead for extreme weather is a necessary part of homeownership—heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are often forgotten in storm and harsh weather preparations.
Preparing your HVAC system for harsh weather conditions is essential for efficiency and durability. Whether you’re facing extreme temperatures, heavy snow, or powerful storms in Colorado, taking preventive measures can safeguard your system, prevent expensive repairs, and keep your home comfortable.
Carrier Colorado and our network of Carrier Factory Authorized Dealers have compiled a checklist and other general tips to ensure your HVAC system is adequately prepared for all weather.
Prepare Your HVAC for Bad Weather
Carrier Colorado suggests these strategies for homeowners who want to get their HVAC systems ready for adverse weather.
1. Conduct Regular Inspections and Cleanings
Regular servicing and repairs are essential for HVAC maintenance. Schedule a professional inspection with a certified Carrier Colorado dealer before extreme weather hits to identify and fix any issues.
You may also want to replace or clean the air filters to ensure optimal airflow. Dirty filters can hinder performance, making your system work harder and potentially causing malfunctions. Additionally, clean your outdoor unit by removing debris, leaves, and dirt to ensure it operates without obstructions.
2. Seal and Check Ductwork
Leaky ducts can lead to significant energy wastage, forcing your HVAC system to work harder to keep temperatures comfortable in your Colorado home.
Inspect your ductwork for leaks, disconnections, and gaps, and seal them with duct sealant or metal tape. This will improve efficiency in your home and ensure that heated or cooled air is evenly distributed.
3. Enhance Home Insulation
Improve your insulation to help maintain indoor temperatures and reduce the strain on your HVAC system. You may need to use weather stripping or caulk to seal gaps in the insulation in your attic, walls, and around windows and doors.
Your HVAC will require less energy to heat and cool an adequately insulated Colorado home, especially during extreme weather. This translates to energy savings and less wear and tear on your system.
4. Use a Programmable Thermostat
If you want to invest in your HVAC system, Carrier Colorado recommends installing a programmable thermostat and zone control system.
With these technologies, you can optimize energy usage by setting different temperatures in different rooms or “zones” in your Colorado home. You can also adjust the temperature to save energy when you are not home. This reduces the load on your HVAC system so it can easily handle any storm and can lead to substantial energy savings.
5. Shield the Outdoor Unit
Your outdoor unit is particularly vulnerable to damage from debris, ice, and snow during inclement weather. Make sure the area around the unit is clear. Also, ensure that any overhanging branches won’t fall and damage the unit during a storm.
During the winter season in Colorado, use a cover designed for HVAC units or create a shelter to protect it from snow and ice.
6. Prepare for Power Outages
Severe weather often causes power outages in Colorado, so consider investing in a backup generator to keep your HVAC system up and running even when the power is out. You’ll want to check that your generator is compatible with your HVAC system. Be sure to follow all safety guidelines for installation and use.
7. Schedule Routine Maintenance
Hire a professional HVAC technician from a Carrier Colorado dealer to keep your system in optimal condition. Schedule maintenance at least twice a year. Carrier Colorado recommends that homeowners have their HVAC systems serviced in the spring and fall (prior to the peak heating and cooling seasons).
8. Monitor for Issues and Address Them Quickly
During extreme weather, keep a close eye on your HVAC system. Listen for unusual noises, check for inconsistent temperatures, and watch for error codes on the thermostat or unit display. Contact a Carrier Colorado dealer to resolve issues as soon as possible to prevent minor problems from becoming expensive malfunctions.
9. Educate Household Members
A little practical information can go a long way, so make sure that all the members of your household understand the basics of your HVAC system. Show them how to adjust the thermostat and identify signs of potential issues.
10. Plan for Extreme Conditions
In preparation for extreme cold, consider applying heat tape to exposed pipes to prevent freezing. If extremely hot weather is in the forecast, ensure your system can handle high cooling loads. Have an emergency plan, so you know what to do and who to call if your HVAC system fails.
Find a Local Dealer
By implementing these proactive measures, you can ensure your HVAC system remains efficient and reliable, regardless of the weather conditions. Carrier Colorado recommends finding a nearby dealer located in Colorado to turn to for all your HVAC needs, whether you require maintenance, repairs, or a new installation.