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Dealing With HVAC Breakdowns in the Depths of Winter

February 3, 2025

Winter’s icy grip can turn your cozy home into a frigid nightmare when your heating system fails. As HVAC breakdowns strike during the coldest months, quick action becomes essential for your comfort and safety. 

Understanding how to respond when your furnace malfunctions can help minimize disruption and get your home warm again faster. In this guide, Glenmont Air Conditioning & Heating will explain how to handle system breakdowns and take the right steps to restore your comfort.

Common Causes of Winter HVAC Failures

Before diving into solutions, it’s important to understand what might cause your system to fail. Your heating system consists of multiple components that work together to keep your home warm.

Components That Commonly Fail in Cold Weather

A faulty thermostat often triggers heater problems by incorrectly reading temperatures or failing to communicate with your system. The compressor, which pressurizes refrigerant, may struggle in extremely cold conditions. Meanwhile, a worn capacitor can prevent your system from starting up properly.

Winter puts extra strain on your system’s critical components. When temperatures plummet, the condenser unit outside your home faces particular challenges. Ice can form on the evaporator coil, reducing efficiency and potentially causing system failure.

Your ductwork also plays a crucial role in winter comfort. Leaks or poor insulation can lead to significant heat loss and uneven heating throughout your home.

Initial Steps To Take During a Heating Emergency

When your heating system stops working, taking immediate action can prevent further complications. Here are the essential first steps to follow:

  • Check your thermostat settings and batteries.
  • Inspect circuit breakers and electrical connections.
  • Look for obvious blockages around outdoor units.
  • Listen for unusual sounds that might indicate mechanical problems.
  • Check your air filter for excessive buildup.

Emergency Measures to Stay Warm

During HVAC breakdowns, protecting your family and home becomes the top priority. Call an HVAC technician for emergency services as soon as possible and consider these temporary solutions while awaiting professional help:

  • Seal off unused rooms to concentrate heat.
  • Use safe portable space heaters.
  • Add extra layers of clothing and blankets.
  • Close curtains and blinds to retain heat.
  • Check pipe insulation to prevent freezing.

Prevention Tips for Future Winters

Taking proactive steps can help you avoid future HVAC breakdowns. Regular maintenance allows technicians to spot potential issues before they become emergencies.

A thorough maintenance visit should include cleaning the condenser and evaporator coils, testing the capacitor and electrical connections, calibrating the thermostat, and inspecting your ductwork for leaks. Between maintenance visits, you can replace your air filters every three months and check your thermostat batteries to ensure everything is working properly. These preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of mid-winter system failures.

Trust Glenmont Air Conditioning & Heating for Your Winter Comfort Needs

When HVAC breakdowns threaten your comfort, swift action makes all the difference. We understand the challenges that winter poses to your heater and stand ready to help restore your comfort quickly. 

Our experienced team brings years of expertise to every service call, ensuring your system receives the attention it deserves. For reliable heating solutions in Rockville, MD, contact Glenmont Air Conditioning & Heating at (301) 468-2665.

About The Author

Glenmont Air Conditioning & Heating

For over 35 years, Glenmont Air Conditioning & Heating has provided full-service HVAC repair, replacement, and maintenance in the Rockville, Maryland area. Contact us today to schedule service.