5 Ways You Can Protect Your HVAC System Against Snow & Ice
Your HVAC system is built to withstand Mother Nature. But over time, even normal weather conditions can increase the wear and tear on your HVAC system. Snow and ice can be especially harsh on heating systems. They increase the risk of corrosion, rust, reduced operational efficiency, broken fans, and limited airflow.
You don’t have to leave your HVAC system exposed. Here are five ways to protect your HVAC system against snow and ice.
1. Remove Ice & Snow Buildup
It’s important to keep your HVAC system clear of ice and snow. If you have buildup, remove it as soon as you can. Ice and snow can damage your unit by creating an ice layer around it. That ice layer can cause your unit to freeze and create a major failure.
Ice and snow can also work their way into your HVAC system, where they can block or reduce airflow. If this happens, the buildup causes your system to work harder, which could make your system wear out more quickly. To keep your HVAC system working well:
- Make sure you remove any icicles on or above the unit.
- Clear off ice and snow from the top of the unit.
- Clear away snow from at least 18 inches around the unit to give it enough space for proper airflow.
2. Check Your Outside Vents
You must keep your HVAC system vents clear to help them work properly. Keeping your vents clear is essential, not only to keep your HVAC system functioning but also to keep your family safe.
Your HVAC system produces carbon monoxide when it runs. That gas is vented outside your home, dissipating into the outdoor air. If the HVAC system exhaust vent is blocked, the carbon monoxide your system produces could get backed up into your home, creating a dangerous situation.
In addition, you need to keep your intake vents clear. Your HVAC system intake vents bring fresh air into your home. Your HVAC system needs the new air to operate. If your vents are blocked, your system may shut off or run poorly.
3. Clear Away Tree Branches
Debris, like tree branches, leaves, and dirt, can cause problems for your HVAC system. They can get caught against the intake vents and restrict the airflow, making your HVAC system need to work harder to run.
You should also consider the branches above your HVAC system. During heavy snow and ice storms, the branches can become heavy. If they break, they could fall on your system and cause damage to it. Giving your HVAC system space will help keep it safe.
4. Invest in a Protective Cover
Protective covers protect against debris and other small particles that could get trapped in your system and cause damage. The cover protects your system from ice and snow.
A cover can also keep the snow from building up on the sides of the HVAC system. You may still need to clear snow from the top of your unit if you’ve had significant snowfall.
5. Schedule Regular Maintenance
Regular, professional maintenance can help keep any HVAC system ready all year. After a long winter, a tune-up allows professional technicians to clean and inspect your system.
They’ll recalibrate, lubricate, and repair small damage before it becomes a major issue. This inspection helps keep your HVAC system in top condition and operating efficiently.
SameDay Heating & Air Can Help Protect Your HVAC System
To keep your HVAC system working well, choose SameDay Heating & Air, Plumbing, and Electrical for your tune-up. We’re the Greater Salt Lake City area’s premier HVAC services provider. We offer over 64 years of experience, a 100% satisfaction guarantee , and same-day service.
Schedule your HVAC maintenance appointment today by calling us at (801) 726-3329 or by contacting us online.
