2014 has started with an unusual number of extreme weather events all over the world. The United States has experienced recent extremes of cold, heat, and storms in many parts of the country. These fluctuations have wrought damage to home utilities and HVAC systems from one corner of the country to the other.
The severe cold spell that hit certain parts of the country knocked out communications, heat and power services to many homes and businesses. It was also the major culprit when it came to burst pipes. When water cools to about 3.98 degrees Celsius, it expands. This expansion causes an increase in the pressure inside the water pipe, which in turn causes the pipe to rapture when it can no longer hold the pressure. In addition to the plumbing and HVAC repairs costs, a burst pipe can cause devastating and expensive damage to properties.
Troubleshooting the system
When temperatures are low outside, the system can cease to work efficiently because of the formation of ice in the tubes. In such circumstances, HVAC troubleshooting comes in handy. The solution lies in turning the air off for several hours and allowing it to warm-up again. Nonetheless, this is a temporary fix because the system is likely to freeze-up again. Therefore, finding an HVAC professional is recommended to evaluate the system and recommend lasting solutions.
It is important to turn on the air conditioning unit in advance of the upcoming season and listen out for any abnormal sounds, behavior, or smells. One should then consult a professional right away if the system emits strange odors & sounds or reacts alarmingly. To prevent the HVAC coils and water pipes from freezing, it is advisable to follow the HVAC expert’s advice. Homeowners living in areas that experience both hot and winter seasons need to adhere to a strict home utility maintenance schedule to detect problems early and/or remedy any problems. Wrapping pipes using specialized foam and electric heated pipe-wrappings can also help prevent costly repairs.
Contact a licensed HVAC professional
Keeping the AC running at peak efficiency can save on expensive repair bills. Regular A/C maintenance & inspections performed by a professional HVAC contractor can prevent problems with frozen HVAC coils or lines. An experienced technician will be able to detect problems quickly. Hiring a service professional for maintenance before the start of summer and winter season can help prevent many plumbing and HVAC issues.
