In the Hudson Valley, the temperature can range from zero in the Winter to 100 in the Summer. Homeowners in Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, and Fairfield Counties enjoy livable indoor climates with a proper HVAC system. So how to prepare your Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning for the different seasons?
WINTER
Winter weather in Westchester and surrounding counties includes cold temperatures along with ice or snow. A malfunctioning furnace can lead to frozen pipes or other hazardous conditions. Winter preparation of your furnace or heating unit includes:
- insulating your home
- sealing windows and doors
- checking heating elements of furnacing
- assuring your pilot light is blue in color
- inspecting the cleanliness of your burner
- setting thermostat temperature depending on when you’re; home or day or night
- inspecting electrical connections
Insulation keeps the air warm inside. Insulating attics, basements, and even garages helps with heat retention. Cold air can also seep in through gaps or pinholes around windows and doors. Weatherstripping, caulk or other sealants help keep cold air out.
When your home retains heat longer, the heating system does not need to run as long or work as hard. A well-sealed and properly insulated home lowers energy consumption and utility bills.
It is essential to perform routine checks to ensure that your furnace operates efficiently and reliably. Inspect the cleanliness of your burner. Dirt and debris impair performance, leading to increased fuel usage or uneven heating.
A blue pilot light indicates correct combustion. A yellow or orange pilot light signals incomplete combustion, which may potentially be a safety hazard.
Unusual sounds such as banging, clanking, or squealing might indicate worn-out components or other mechanical problems. Strange odors or unexpected water likewise warrant inspection. If you are familiar with your heating system, you will notice deviations. Alternatively, rely on a professional to identify issues before they proliferate or fester into something larger.
SUMMER
Summer weather in the New York metro area includes heat and humidity. Of late, periods of intense rainfall have become increasingly frequent. Sudden, massive volume of rain has resulted in local flooding, prompting more mold or mildew. In this climate, HVAC systems in Westchester County must efficiently:
- keep indoors cool
- reduce allergens
- improve indoor air
Air Conditioning summer preparation should include:
- replacing or cleaning air filters
- checking refrigerants
- cleaning condenser coils
- assuring tight seals on ductwork
- unblocking registers and vents
- setting thermostats accordingly
Dirty or grimy air filters restrict airflow. Refrigerant absorbs heat from the indoor air and releases it outside. Condenser coils are typically part of your outside component. Their purpose is to release absorbed-indoor heat.
The exposure to dirt, leaves, and other debris results in coverings on the coils. Clogged or obstructed coils reduce the heat exchange process, reducing your unit’s efficiency. Lack of refrigerant causes your unit to work harder. Restricted airflow from dirty filters reduces cooling efficiency and filters fewer allergens.
Air leaks in ductwork are another cause of lost efficiency in an HVAC system. Seals should be checked. Leaks have to be remediated to ensure peak operations. Finally, zoned A/C or timed thermostat settings can reduce usage during periods or spaces where your home is unoccupied.
PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE
Incorporating routine maintenance into any system reduces the surprise of sudden failure. The steps outlined above could be executed by attentive and handy homeowners. There are warning signs that a professional will catch earlier than a layperson.
Identifying problems earlier tends to:
- be less costly to fix
- provide more system uptime
- increase system longevity
Investing in a maintenance program – especially with a company employing experienced, NATE certified technicians – is a prudent investment for homeowners and businesses alike. A professional inspection checks for any signs of wear and tear, verifies refrigerant levels, cleans critical parts, and replaces soon to fail parts to ensure proper system functioning.
Regular, detailed evaluations offered by Thermodynamix strive for optimal operation throughout the year, no matter the weather. These check-ups identify issues early, thus reducing costly breakdowns.
Additionally, seasoned professionals who have in-depth knowledge of how your HVAC system compares to newer equipment can better advise when it makes sense to upgrade. If your system is more than 10 years old, it may be time to consider an energy efficient replacement.
GOALS
When it comes to interior climate control, homeowners and office managers want to:
- provide a comfortable environment for family or colleagues
- reduce energy consumption
- lower utility bills
- promote the longevity of your HVAC
The worst time to have an HVAC outing is during a heatwave or an arctic blast. Not only will you and your loved ones be uncomfortable, but also scheduling a technician is more difficult. Whether residential or commercial, maintain a comfortable environment and avoid dangerous situations by enacting routine maintenance.
Have an emergency plan. Batteries, flashlights, blankets, and non-perishable food are necessary. A portable heater or a fireplace are nice to have. Know critical numbers, such as an HVAC technician, plumber, or electrician.
HVAC is an investment – therefore maintain it for as long as possible and upgrade when appropriate. Commercial HVAC maintenance is often more complex due to the size and indoor air quality requirements. Having downtime due to a commercial breakdown not only is uncomfortable but also reduces the productivity of your staff.
Checking thermostats, inspecting ductwork, regularly replacing filters goes a long way towards avoiding stoppages and focusing on pertinent business instead. High-quality filters safeguard against allergens, promoting a healthier environment. Identify a company you can trust. Consider one who:
- has customers who appreciate them
- demonstrates years of operating stability
- is licensed and insured
- has certified technicians with years of experience
- appreciates their customer and prioritizes customer service
- communicates clearly
- stands behind their work with warranties and guarantees
Thermodynamix is a family owned and operated HVAC company proud to have hundreds of 5-star reviews.
We provide emergency service and can help you finance your climate control equipment. Whether you need an AC repair, a furnace installation or other solution, call or schedule an appointment.