As winter temperatures plummet, homeowners and business owners alike face a serious risk like frozen pipes and HVAC system failures. These cold-weather hazards can lead to costly repairs, water damage, and major disruptions to your comfort. Fortunately, with the right preparation and maintenance, many of these issues can be prevented.
At Hauck Bros., we’re committed to helping you protect your home or business from winter extremes. Here’s how to stay ahead of freezing temperatures and keep your HVAC system running strong.
Why Do Pipes and HVAC Systems Fail in Extreme Cold?
Extreme cold can place significant stress on your home’s infrastructure. Water in pipes can freeze and expand, causing them to burst. Heating systems may also struggle to keep up, especially if they haven’t been maintained properly. Frozen coils, dirty filters, or outdated equipment can all lead to failure when your system is working its hardest.
Planning ahead is the key to avoiding these emergencies.
Tips to Prevent Frozen Pipes
-
Insulate Exposed Pipes
Pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, attics, or exterior walls are especially vulnerable. Use pipe insulation sleeves or foam to protect them from freezing.
-
Keep Cabinet Doors Open
On particularly cold nights, open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around the plumbing.
-
Let Faucets Drip
Allowing a slow drip of water from your faucets helps prevent pressure build-up and keeps water moving through the pipes.
-
Seal Drafts and Air Leaks
Cold air drafts near plumbing can lower temperatures quickly. Seal any cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and foundations to keep cold air out.
-
Maintain a Consistent Indoor Temperature
Keep your thermostat set to the same temperature during the day and night, even when you’re away from home. Avoid letting your home drop below 55°F.
How to Prepare Your HVAC System for Extreme Cold
-
Schedule a Winter HVAC Maintenance Visit
Preventative maintenance is your best defense. A professional inspection ensures your system is clean, safe, and operating efficiently. Hauck Bros. offers comprehensive tune-ups as part of our .
-
Change Your Air Filters
Dirty filters restrict airflow, making it harder for your heating system to perform. Check filters monthly and replace as needed.
-
Keep Outdoor Units Clear
Remove snow, ice, and debris from around your heat pump or outdoor furnace unit to allow for proper airflow and drainage.
-
Test Your Thermostat
Make sure your thermostat is responsive and set to your desired temperature. Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better efficiency and control.
-
Insulate Ductwork in Unheated Spaces
If your ductwork runs through unconditioned areas like attics or basements, insulate it to prevent heat loss and improve system performance.
Be Ready for HVAC Emergencies
Even with the best preparation, unexpected issues can still arise during extreme cold. Here are a few ways to stay prepared:
- Know where your main water shut-off valve is in case of a pipe burst.
- Keep emergency contact info handy for your HVAC service provider.
- Invest in backup heat sources like space heaters, but use them safely and according to instructions.
- Enroll in a maintenance plan like those offered by Hauck Bros. to ensure you get priority service during emergency calls.
Protect Your Comfort This Winter with Hauck Bros.
Freezing temperatures don’t have to catch you off guard. With proactive steps and professional support, you can prevent frozen pipes and HVAC failures before they start.
Hauck Bros. is proud to serve Springfield, Dayton, Columbus, and the surrounding communities with expert HVAC repair, maintenance, and system replacement. Let us help you stay warm, safe, and stress-free this winter.
Contact us today to schedule a maintenance appointment or learn more about our seasonal services.
Related Posts
1974 Commerce Circle