One suggestion is to make sure your home’s exterior HVAC unit hasn’t frozen over!
Freezing winter conditions are here. Even though winter is known to be a chilly season, this time, it seems to be personal. After all, there are unbelievably cold temperatures all over the country. In some states, the forecast is grim: subzero temperatures, plenty of wind chill, and black ice on the roads. So, amidst all of this treacherous weather, how can you keep yourself and your family safe? One suggestion is to make sure your home’s exterior HVAC unit hasn’t frozen over!
Locate the Main Circuit
First things first, you’ll want to find the main circuit. Once you’ve spotted it, hit the switch so that it’s in the off position. If there’s a metal or plastic lid in the way, don’t panic. It’s supposed to be there. Besides, once this vital circuit has been flipped, you won’t have to worry about unseasonably warm weather becoming a nuisance. That’s because any meltwater present won’t freeze up again.
Clean It Up ASAP
HVAC systems need plenty of inspections, cleaning, and maintenance. While you might not be able to inspect or maintain the HVAC unit in your backyard, cleaning it should be easy enough. Use your garden house to wash away the ordinary debris you’ll more than likely see. Also, clean up evidence of bird droppings, excess dirt, and even insects. With your hands, pull away branches, twigs, leaves, and grass that are clogging the filters and coils. Then give it time to rest and dry off before you do anything else.
Add Foam Pipe Covers
Adding foam pipe covers might sound like odd advice. But trust us, it will be a huge help. That way, you can make sure the unit’s exterior pipes are kept relatively warm. The covers offer insulation, which means that the lines should be better protected from the elements. Duct tape can bind the coverings, so they aren’t blown away by strong winds.
Experiment with Plastic or Vinyl Sheets
You can also try using plastic or vinyl sheets. These tarps will do their part in shielding your residential HVAC against nature’s displeasure. Waterproof covers are essential and don’t forget to add vinyl ropes to hold the sheets in place, much like the foam pipe covers.
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William E. Kingswell has remained a distinguished provider of commercial and residential heating and cooling services since 1937. We have provided unmatched customer service to all of our clients. We enjoy being the preferred HVAC equipment distributor of countless customers. We offer a comprehensive range of high-quality heat pumps, boilers, unit heaters, HVAC accessories, and more. William E. Kingswell works with businesses and homeowners throughout Maryland, Washington, D.C., and Virginia, including Baltimore, Frederick, Annapolis, Fairfax, Manassas, Richmond, Fredericksburg, Virginia Beach, and Leesburg. To learn more about our extensive range of SpacePak, Concord, Allied Commercial, and Bard HVAC equipment, give us a call at 301-937-1900 or contact us today!