Winter is in full swing in The Woodlands, Texas. Is your home cozy and warm? If you are struggling to maintain a comfortable living environment, it is possible your home’s heating and cooling system is not operating optimally. Understanding common HVAC issues can help. In our blog, we share three tips for you to learn how to keep your house warm in the winter. Read on and take winter by storm!
1. Uneven Heating and Airflow
Are some rooms in your home just right, while others have you reaching for a coat? Cold spots in your home can be frustrating when trying to keep your house warm in the winter. Uneven heating often results from blocked vents, dirty air filters, or issues with the ductwork. Here are some ways you might be able to address this:
- Unblock Vents and Registers: Ensure that furniture or curtains aren’t obstructing airflow. Blocked vents prevent warm air from circulating properly.
- Replace Air Filters Regularly: Dirty filters restrict airflow, causing the system to work harder and distribute heat unevenly. It’s advisable to check and replace filters every one to two months.
- Inspect and Seal Ductwork: Leaky air ducts can lead to significant heat loss, resulting in uneven temperatures. Sealing ducts can improve efficiency and comfort. This might be one fix where you should call on your trusted HVAC contractor or repair company. The experts at The Woodlands Plumbing & Air know what to look for and have all the tools to fix any leaky ductwork when they conduct heating system repairs.
2. Thermostat Malfunctions
A malfunctioning thermostat can lead to inconsistent temperatures or a non-responsive heating system. To prevent this:
- Test Your Thermostat: Ensure it’s functioning correctly by setting it to a specific temperature and observing if the system responds appropriately. This is vital to keeping your house warm in the winter.
- Consider Upgrading: If your thermostat is outdated, upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat can enhance efficiency and provide better control over your home’s climate. The Woodlands offer smart thermostat installation or custom zoning applications to help keep your thermostat operating at its best. Check out this article from a popular thermostat manufacturer, Carrier, to learn more.
3. Frozen Pipes and Components
Although The Woodlands, Texas, typically experiences mild winters, occasional cold snaps can cause pipes and HVAC components to freeze, leading to system failures. In mid-January, a band of snow and freezing temperatures made their way through the area. To mitigate this risk:
- Insulate Exposed Pipes: Use foam insulation to protect pipes, especially those in unheated areas like attics or crawl spaces.
- Maintain Consistent Temperatures: Keep your home at a steady temperature, even when away, to prevent pipes from freezing.
- Schedule Regular Maintenance: Professional inspections can identify vulnerable components and ensure your system is prepared for colder weather. At The Woodlands Plumbing & Air, we offer customers Wally’s Savings Club, an annual maintenance plan program. When we come out to service your furnace for the winter maintenance, we would spot and resolve any areas that could pose a problem. Learn more about how specific winter maintenance can save you money in our blog.
Count On the Woodlands to Keep Your House Warm in the Winter
If any of these steps to keep your house warm in the winter leave you feeling overwhelmed, don’t worry! The Woodlands Plumbing & Air is here to help. As part of our commitment to excellence, we also offer ongoing maintenance services when you become a member of Wally’s Savings Club. Annual maintenance keeps your HVAC system running smoothly year-round.
By staying vigilant and addressing these common issues, homeowners in The Woodlands can enjoy a warm and comfortable winter season. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to problems will keep your HVAC system running smoothly throughout the colder months. Call The Woodlands Plumbing & Air for a free consultation or schedule an appointment online. We’re proud to serve the northern Houston area with high-quality HVAC solutions that you can rely on.