7 Common HVAC Problems During Winter

HVAC problems seem to multiply when the winter season arrives. If it feels this way at your home, you’re not alone. We get more calls in the winter at Suburban HVAC than at any other time of year. As the temperature drops and the demands on your system increase, you’re more likely to encounter issues. These are seven of the most common problems you may experience.

1. Frozen Pipes

December, January, and February regularly see freezing temperatures. While daytime temperatures may pop above the freezing point, pipes can quickly freeze over as soon as the sun goes down. Whether gradual or sudden, the temperature change can cause pressure buildup that can burst the pipes wide open.

2. Uneven Airflow

Blocked ducts and vents cause uneven airflow. Whether it’s due to an errant holiday box or a season’s worth of dust bunnies and dog hair, these blockages can make one room in the home feel like a walk-in freezer and the one next to it feel like a sauna.

3. Dirty Air Filters

As with blocked ducts, a dirty air filter can make your home feel chilly and uncomfortable. Air filters should be regularly inspected and changed to facilitate the smooth flow of air into and from your furnace. Moreover, regular filter changes help preserve energy efficiency and reduce wear and tear on your furnace system.

4. Malfunctioning Thermostat

Thermostats are durable, but they’re not indestructible. Over time, wires will come loose, computer chips will fail, sensors will malfunction, etc. This can negatively impact the unit’s calibration and limit the thermostat’s ability to control your home temperature effectively.

5. Flickering Pilot Lights

Pilot lights can flicker and fail for two primary reasons. Drafts are the leading cause. Ensure the vent cover is attached correctly and that any drafts in the furnace room are sealed. Similarly, clogged or damaged flame sensors can cause a pilot light to go out. When the flame sensor is dirty or damaged, we recommend prompt cleaning and/or replacement.

6. Damaged Heat Pumps or Furnaces

Heat pumps and furnaces require regular maintenance to ensure all components are properly functioning. When maintenance is neglected, problems are magnified. During the winter, heat pumps and furnaces can leak, belts can break, heat exchangers can crack, and more. Performing maintenance in the spring and at the beginning of fall is the best way to ensure small problems are identified before they can cause a mid-winter breakdown.

7. CO Leaks

Carbon monoxide is a toxic, deadly gas that results from the incomplete combustion of natural gas. If you have a natural gas furnace or other appliance, you must equip your home with CO detectors. Unlike natural gas, carbon monoxide is odorless. This means it can seep through the home without any warning. When you have a cracked heat exchanger, flickering pilot light, blocked chimney, or loose pipes, your safety depends on promptly correcting these heating maintenance issues.

DIY Troubleshooting Tips

When your HVAC system falters in the winter, a few simple checks can help determine the issue. While these steps may identify the problem, avoid DIY repairs and rely on a professional to fix it. Here’s a quick troubleshooting guide:

1. Check the Thermostat Settings

Verify that your thermostat is set to “heat” and that the temperature is set a few degrees higher than the room temperature. Also, make sure it’s on “auto” rather than “on,” as “on” can keep the fan running continuously.

2. Replace the Air Filter

Clogged filters can reduce airflow and affect system efficiency. Check your filter monthly and replace it if it’s dirty. A clean filter improves air quality and system performance.

3. Inspect Vents & Registers

Go around your home and ensure that vents and registers are open and unblocked by furniture or drapes. Restricted airflow can make rooms feel colder and strain your HVAC system.

4. Check the Circuit Breaker

Check your breaker box if your HVAC system isn’t turning on. Sometimes, a tripped breaker needs resetting. However, if the breaker keeps tripping, this signals a bigger problem that a professional should assess.

5. Look for Odd Noises

Listen for strange noises, like banging or squealing, which can indicate issues with the motor or blower. Jot down what you hear to help the HVAC technician diagnose the problem quickly.

6. Examine the Outdoor Unit for Obstructions

Remove any snow, ice, or debris if your HVAC system includes an outdoor unit. Doing so allows the unit to operate efficiently and can help prevent damage.

7. Call a Pro for Reliable Repairs

If these steps don’t solve the issue, it’s time to call family-owned Suburban HVAC. With over 60 years of experience, our team provides quick, reliable responses and customized solutions to keep your home warm all winter.

Schedule HVAC Repair in Westwood, MA

Is your heating or cooling system malfunctioning? Call the experts at Suburban HVAC to schedule HVAC repair. It’s our pleasure to answer your questions and tell you more about the winter HVAC maintenance and HVAC repairs we provide our clients in Massachusetts.

Call our team today or request an appointment online.