Common HVAC Problems During Winter

Winter is here and with it comes many problems that could plague your HVAC system. Here is a list of some common problems you could face this winter and how we can help.

Dirty Burners

If you use a furnace to heat your home, natural wear and tear will occur and dirt can eventually build up on gas furnace burners. Left uncleaned, gas jets can be blocked by dirty burners and possibly redirect flames outside the burner area. In some instances you can hear the furnace make a loud “boom” noise as the gas jets ignite. Having a furnace technician from Bradley Mechanical remove and clean the burner should provide the fix.

Freezing Pipes

As winter sets in, colder temperatures become the norm and ice can accumulate. Components like pipes and coils can freeze over and stop working properly. Hot water heaters and steam radiators that rely on water flow can fail if frozen pipes stop the flow of water. Taking necessary precautions to prevent pipes from freezing like insulating with pipe sleeves or keeping the thermostat at a constant temperature can help avoid this problem.

Dirty Air Filters

While this may be an issue that can happen any time of the year, it is much more common in winter when we are spending more time indoors. Air filters help protect your heater from dust and debris and changing them in a timely manner can prevent the restriction of air flow that can lead to other HVAC problems.

Cycling Heat

As mentioned before, having clogged or dirty filters can cause additional HVAC problems. One of those problems can be your heater cycling on and off too quickly when air flow is restricted. This can waste energy and create extra wear on parts of your HVAC system. A faulty thermostat can also be to blame for your heat cycling. If you aren’t certain of the cause, have an HVAC expert from Bradley Mechanical inspect and repair your system.

Carbon Monoxide

A furnace that is not running at peak performance could be putting you and your family in danger. A dirty furnace burning inefficiently could be putting out deadly amounts of carbon monoxide. It is recommended you replace or clean your furnace filters three or four times a year and have the furnace itself cleaned annually.

Loss of Heat

One of the most common HVAC problems homeowners experience during the winter is a sudden loss of heat. Freezing or inclement weather can wreak havoc on your heat pump. It could also be a leak in an air duct or even a compressor issue. Some of these issues can be avoidable when preventative measures are taken to prepare your HVAC for cold weather. But some issues are out of your control. Whatever the cause, a Bradley Mechanical HVAC expert can come inspect and repair your system.

If you need help with keeping the heat on this winter, give Bradley Mechanical a call today. We have been Central Virginia’s authority on HVAC maintenance and repair since 1969. Call us today at (804) 748-6728 and ask about our HVAC maintenance plans.