The warmth of your home can be a welcome reprieve despite Conroe’s moderately chilly winter weather. Although temperatures aren’t likely to drop lower than the 40s, your unit will still need to work overtime to keep you warm. Unfortunately, this extra workload can contribute to reduced energy efficiency.
Some of the components of your outdoor HVAC unit can also freeze causing them to break. Your unit won’t work properly and the damage may extend to the entire system.
Winter repairs can be costly but you can minimize them by preparing before the cold weather sets in. This involves heating maintenance in the fall and spring. Read on to find out what this entails.
Why You Need Heating Maintenance in Conroe, TX
The lowest temperature ever recorded in Conroe, TX was 3°F in December 1989. The winters have been much warmer since.
However, arctic cold fronts can occur in Montgomery County. In the past, during these weather conditions, temperatures dropped to the teens with windchills below zero.
These extremes and even a light freeze can cause problems for HVAC systems that haven’t undergone heating maintenance. Here’s why.
Frozen Outdoor Pipes
Outdoor pipes can freeze when temperatures drop below 32°F. This includes the pipes, coils, and other components in your HVAC system that are vulnerable during extreme weather.
A frozen pipe with water that repeatedly thaws and freezes will expand and may eventually burst. Prepping your HVAC system before temperatures drop can help prevent this.
Inconsistent Heating
The Texas summer heat can have you using your air conditioner continuously. Your blower motor will push more air through your system to cool more effectively. More dirt gets trapped in your air filter causing it to get clogged.
Dirty air filters can become a problem in winter. They can be responsible for varying heating patterns throughout your home. Simply cleaning or changing your air filter in the fall can keep your home warmer during the winter.
Faulty Thermostats
Your thermostat may stop working for several reasons. These may include electrical issues, low battery power, or incorrect programming. This will affect your entire HVAC system.
A simple check before the cold weather arrives can identify and resolve any issues. It will help to ensure your thermostat is working when you need it most.
Heating Maintenance to Prepare for Winter
Preparing for winter weather in Texas involves insulating your home. You should test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors as well. It’s also common to stock up on extra supplies in the event of a power outage.
In Conroe, heating maintenance is as important and should involve the following:
Shut Down AC Units Properly
You should shut down your AC unit before winter. A running AC in winter can cause coils to freeze and lubricant to thicken. These are only two of many problems that can occur.
Many AC units damaged during the winter usually need to be replaced.
You may also want to invest in an AC cover for your unit to prevent debris from getting in it.
Check Air Filters and Ducts
A clean air filter will help air to flow freely. This puts less stress on your HVAC system.
It also facilitates more consistent heating throughout your home. Your indoor air quality will improve as well.
Leaks or gaps in your ducts can reduce the performance and efficiency of your system. It’s best to have a Conroe HVAC company inspect your ductwork and seal any leaks or gaps if needed.
Minimize Freezing Pipes and HVAC Components
Freezing pipes can be costly as they can damage your entire HVAC system. You can prevent this by not turning your heat off completely during the winter. The warm air flowing through the system prevents the coils from icing up.
Clean filters, open vents, and rigid ducts can also help the air to flow through freely. You should clean your evaporator coil as well. Also, ensure your blower fan is working to prevent the system from freezing up.
Check Your Thermostat
Check your thermostat to ensure it’s working as it should. Doing this provides the perfect opportunity to check your circuit breaker. This can help prevent electrical issues in the HVAC system.
You may also want to think of investing in a programmable thermostat. This will allow your system to adjust to temperature changes that may occur.
Schedule a Tune-up and Inspection
There are a few things you can do on your own to ensure your HVAC system is working as it should. However, it’s also important to include tune-ups and inspections in your heating and cooling maintenance.
A professional heating services company will identify issues and repair them before they become major problems. They’ll also do a thorough inspection which will include:
- Lubricating moving parts
- Checking refrigerant levels
- Tightening connections
- Checking for leaks or gaps in your ductwork
- Checking for carbon monoxide leaks
They can also troubleshoot and fix any issues you may be having with your thermostat. An inspection that is well done, will ensure your system is running efficiently.
Doing this in the fall and spring can identify issues before winter. It also allows you to complete furnace repair which you may need after harsh cold weather.
Deep Clean Your HVAC System
A professional deep cleaning can remove debris in ductwork. This is often missed during regular maintenance.
This ensures the removal of dust, pollen, pet hair, and other allergens from your HVAC system. Deep cleaning helps to improve indoor air quality. You should schedule one before winter.
Effective Heating Maintenance You Can Rely On
The list of tasks involved in heating maintenance for winter is extensive. It can even be a little daunting. However, working with the right HVAC company can make your winter prep easier.
If you’re wondering, Where can I find a company that provides heating and cooling near me? You don’t have to look much further.
Luxury Air A/C & Heating has been serving Montgomery County for years. Customers in Conroe, Magnolia, Montgomery, and surrounding cities can attest to our stellar service. We are ready to provide the same for you.
Your winter prep doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Call us today to schedule your AC and heating repair. We’ll do the rest!
