The National Weather Service in Birmingham, AL issued a Wind Chill Warning & Advisory this morning that is set to last through Saturday morning. Cold air and windy conditions could result in wind chills as low as 5 below zero. Since that’s unusual for our part of the country, we thought it might be a good idea to share a few cold weather HVAC tips.
Keep exhaust vents free of blockages
As we’ve mentioned in other blog posts, it’s important for your outdoor HVAC unit to have room to breathe. While we won’t have to worry about snow drifts blocking the vents, you should make sure that nothing is preventing your unit from doing its job.
Turn down the thermostat just a bit
Let’s face it, your HVAC system will be working hard over the next couple of days; why not, turn your thermostat down a few degrees to reduce the strain?
Check and/or replace filters
How often you change your air filter really depends on your system. In some cases, you can hold off replacing your filter every three months, but in others, it’s a monthly must-do. If you’ve not been the best about seeing this task, today is a good day to check your air filter. If dog hair, dust, and other particles are clogging the filter, we highly recommend changing it before the chill arrives.
Worried your HVAC system won’t be able to handle the cold?
If you’ve not had your HVAC system cleaned and maintained recently, your worries may be warranted. Regular maintenance ensures your HVAC unit can perform its purpose, and meet its expected lifespan; it can also prevent the need for large (read expensive) repairs.
Be careful about supplementary heating sources
When it is cold outside, people have a tendency to run space heaters. Unfortunately, this can lead to unsafe conditions. If you’re considering using a portable heating device in addition to your HVAC system, make sure:
- The heater will shut off if the unit falls over
- You do not plug into an extension cord
- To use space heaters only in rooms where fire detectors are installed
There’s help for your HVAC system!
We hope these cold weather HVAC tips have helped, but as always, we’re here if you need us! Offering affordable and reliable heating and cooling services in Mountain Brook, Hoover, and throughout Greater Birmingham and Central Alabama, our locally owned and family-operated company is equipped to handle all of your HVAC needs! Available 24/7, our fully licensed and bonded technicians are ready to service your HVAC system! If your system isn’t working the way it should, call the Bear today to schedule service!
