For many, the picturesque landscapes of snow-dusted yards, trees, and housetops are something to look forward to, but snow can also be a hassle. And where there’s snow, there is typically ice. It is crucial to consider how the winter elements might impact your home’s essential systems, particularly your HVAC units. While these wintry views are delightful, they can pose challenges, affecting your system’s efficiency and longevity. Here’s how you can prepare your HVAC system to withstand the winter weather.
Potential Impact:
If your outdoor unit has been subjected to low temperatures and precipitation, ice and snow accumulation can:
• Block vents, coils, or fans, preventing proper airflow and heat exchange
• Freeze or break essential components
• Cause cracks in your outdoor unit
Why It Matters:
Accumulated ice and snow can strain your system, leading to reduced heating efficiency, higher bills, and potential long-term damage. Over-taxation significantly shortens the lifespan of HVAC systems, affecting their reliability. We want you to stay warm and safe for years to come.
What Preventative Strategies:
Taking proactive measures can help safeguard your condenser during snowy and icy conditions.
Unit Protection:
Ideally, your condenser will be in an area that is protected from snowfall and strong winds. Even if it is covered on the top, snow can travel horizontally and gather around the unit. Consider using a protective cover specifically designed for HVAC units. These covers shield the unit from snow, ice, and debris while allowing proper airflow. Strategic landscaping, and placement away from trees, helps prevent damage from snow, falling branches and other yard debris from a snowstorm.
Clear Snow and Ice
Regularly shovel around the unit, maintaining a few feet of clearance for proper airflow. Gently remove snow, ensuring no damage to components. Allow ice to thaw naturally or seek assistance from a licensed HVAC technician if needed.
Professional Maintenance
Before winter, schedule a regular maintenance visit with an HVAC professional. An HVAC tech can identify vulnerabilities before issues occur and ensure your outdoor unit is adequately prepared to handle snow and ice.
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If your question still needs answering or you’d like to schedule a consultation, contact the friendly team at Genove Oil & Air, and we’ll help you find the right solution for your home or business.
Whether you need home heating oil or Bioheat delivery, or installation and service of oil & natural gas systems for HVAC, heating, and cooling—call us at 781-893-9191 or email us.
