Winter in Boston can be harsh, with temperatures dropping below freezing and snowfall that can reach over 100 inches in a single season. It is important for homeowners to make sure that their heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are in good working order to ensure that they are warm and comfortable during the cold winter months.
However, there are a number of common problems related to HVAC systems in Boston that residents may experience during the winter. Let’s explore more about them in this blog!
#1 The Furnace Doesn’t Produce Enough Heat
One common issue is a furnace that is not producing enough heat. This can happen for a number of reasons, like a broken ignition system, a clogged air filter, or a broken thermostat. It's important to have a professional figure out what's wrong and fix it as soon as possible to keep the furnace from getting worse and to make sure your home stays warm.
#2 Experiencing A Frozen Or Clogged Outdoor Unit
Another issue that Boston residents may encounter is a frozen or clogged outdoor unit. The outdoor unit of an HVAC system pumps heat into or out of the house. If it freezes or gets clogged with ice or snow, it won't be able to do its job. This can lead to a lack of heat or cooling in the home and can also cause damage to the unit. It is important to keep the outdoor unit clear of snow and ice and to have it professionally serviced if it becomes frozen or clogged.
#3 Having A Malfunctioning Thermostat
During the winter, an HVAC system can also have problems due to a broken thermostat. If the thermostat is not calibrated in a proper way, it may not be able to accurately measure the temperature of the home and could result in the furnace or air conditioning unit working harder than necessary to maintain the desired temperature. This can lead to higher energy bills and could also cause damage to the HVAC system. It's important to have a professional calibrate the thermostat and fix any problems with it.
#4 Leaky Or Poorly Sealed Windows And Doors
Leaky or poorly sealed windows and doors can also cause HVAC problems during the winter. If cold air is able to enter the home through these areas, it can cause the furnace to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature, leading to higher energy bills and potential damage to the furnace. To stop this from happening, it is important to fix any leaks and replace any old or broken windows and doors.
#5 Facing Issues With Air Conditioning Units
In addition to these issues, residents of Boston may also have trouble with their air conditioners in the winter. If the air conditioning unit is not properly winterized, it can freeze and become damaged. To avoid this, it is important to have a professional winterize the air conditioner.
#6 Issues With The Boilers
In addition to the problems already mentioned, residents of Boston may also have problems with their boilers in the winter. Boilers are a common type of heating system in the area and are responsible for heating the water that is used to heat the home. If the boiler is not working properly, it can lead to a lack of heat and hot water in the home.
A common problem with boilers is a lack of maintenance. At least once a year, boilers should be checked and fixed to make sure they are working well. If you don't do this, you could end up without heat, with less efficient operation, or even with carbon monoxide leaks. To avoid these problems, it is important to have a professional check on and service the boiler.
Another issue that can affect boilers is a buildup of sediment. Over time, sediment can accumulate in the bottom of the boiler and prevent the heating element from functioning properly. This can result in a lack of heat and hot water and can also cause damage to the boiler. To avoid this problem, it is important to have a professional flush the boiler regularly.
Proper maintenance is key to avoiding HVAC problems during the winter in Boston. At least once a year, preferably before winter, you should have a professional check out and service your HVAC system. Taking advantage of proper HVAC repair services can help identify and fix any potential issues before they become major problems.
There are also a number of steps that homeowners can take to prevent problems related to HVAC services during the winter. These include changing the air filter regularly, keeping the outdoor unit free of snow and ice, sealing any leaks or gaps in windows and doors, and insulating the home to help keep a consistent temperature.
Wrapping Up
In conclusion, there are a number of common heating and air conditioning problems that people in Boston may have in the winter. These include a furnace that is not producing enough heat, a frozen or clogged outdoor unit, a malfunctioning thermostat, leaky or poorly sealed windows and doors, and air conditioning units that are not properly winterized.
With regular maintenance and preventative steps, you can avoid these problems and make sure your HVAC system works well all winter. Contact Home Mechanics for your HVAC concerns today.