When it's cold outside, your HVAC system may be subject to some unusual stresses, particularly if part of your heating equipment is located outside, as with a heat pump.
Here are some things to know about winterizing your HVAC system — well, not really, but at least ensuring it survives the winter OK.
Furnaces
Since most of your furnace is located indoors, it's not subject to the rigors of the weather, although simply by using it more during cold spells, it will endure greater wear and tear. That's why it's important to change the air filter regularly and to schedule preventative maintenance. A licensed HVAC tech will be able to identify problems in the early stage before they require major repairs.
Make sure your chimney or flue is in good working order. Have someone inspect it to make sure it's clear of birds' nests and that the parts have not been damaged by summer storms. Also make sure that exhaust pipes are connected and that combustion gases are being properly expelled.
Heat Pumps
Because the condenser component of the heat pump is located outside, you should have it inspected to make sure it's working right before winter is in full swing. The condenser should be in a protected location, preferably where it won't be buried in snow, and away from possible falling limbs and other debris.
As you are aware, the heat pump is designed to go into defrost mode when the temperature drops. But if it runs too long or doesn't come on often enough, it may need a repair. When this defrost feature fails, the heat pump could freeze up and become coated in ice.
Refrigerant lines and electrical wiring run from the outdoor condenser to the indoor air handler. Your HVAC tech should inspect these lines while performing winter maintenance.
If you have the type of heat pump that heats as well as cools, make sure the reverse valve works properly.
For more on winterizing your HVAC system, contact Air Assurance. We serve Broken Arrow and the surrounding area with quality HVAC installations, repairs, and maintenance.