Winter HVAC strain is a fact of the season here in western Ohio. The cold season pushes monthly heating bills up and makes indoor comfort harder to maintain. Winter HVAC strain also means that heating components can be pushed to the limits. It can even present a threat to central air conditioner components hibernating for the season.
Some possible consequences of winter HVAC strain include:
Excess Heat Loss
Indoor warmth produced by your furnace naturally seeks openings in the structure to seep outdoors. Heat loss extends furnace cycles, stressing components and raising operating costs. Control excess heat loss by identifying air leakage around doors and windows and installing new weather stripping. Use caulking to fill structural openings or cracks in the ceiling and exterior walls. Check the depth and condition of attic insulation to confirm that it meets Department of Energy recommendations.
Component Failures
While the parts in your HVAC system are engineered to last, wear and tear over many years does take its toll. Read on for some of the ways this can happen:
- Heat exchanger. The most costly furnace component, the heat exchanger withstands high temperatures during heating cycles, then rapidly cools when the burner turns off. After many winters, continuous expansion and contraction may cause cracks. As a critical safety component, replacement of a cracked heat exchanger (or installation of a new furnace) is required by most local codes.
- Electronic igniter. Cold winters mean more furnace heating cycles and more wear on the furnace gas igniter. Most igniters last four to seven years before requiring replacement.
- Blower motor. Installed at the base of the furnace, the blower fan that circulates both heated and cooled air throughout the house is generally expected to last an average of 15 years, depending on daily operating hours.
- Air conditioner damage. Though hibernating in winter, outdoor components of the central AC are still at risk. Falling tree limbs and heavy icicles can impact the outdoor unit and inflict damage. Rodents and other animals may nest inside and chew internal wiring. Installing a properly sized AC cover for the winter helps reduce these risks.
For experienced advice and service to mitigate winter HVAC strain, contact the pros at Ace Hardware Home Services.
