Winter Weather Protection for Your HVAC Unit

Although you don’t generally need your outdoor air conditioner compressor/condenser during the winter, you may have wondered if you should be doing something to protect it from the elements when it’s not in use. The best answer is, for the most part, no — particularly in our mild climate.

However, do read on for a few tips on winter weather protection in case inclement weather occurs.

Weather in Peachtree City

We seldom see snow or ice in Peachtree City, but it can happen. Temperatures can fall into the 20s or even lower during the rare ice storm. Will that necessitate taking measures to protect your compressor? Not really. These outdoor units are designed to be tough. The only issue your compressor might have is if it’s directly in the path of a melting/freezing ice dam on the edge of the roof. If water is melting in the day and refreezing overnight as it drips inside the unit, it could be damaged. If you are concerned, tie down a piece of plywood over the unit so that melt water doesn’t drip inside. This could also protect it from large hail during a thunderstorm.

It can rain frequently …

HVAC Control Systems: What Are They?

The words “HVAC control system” typically bring to mind the complex climate control systems that manage heating, ventilation and air conditioning in industrial or commercial buildings. These elaborate systems ensure energy efficiency and occupant comfort using software-managed sensors and controllers that continually monitor the building’s interior conditions and operate the various HVAC components.

HVAC Controls Used in Homes

In a home with central HVAC, the thermostat is what controls the air conditioner, furnace and the blower unit that delivers conditioned air. Early thermostats were basic mechanical devices that signaled the equipment to start and stop at specific temperature set points. Technology has advanced in recent years, and today, there are sophisticated home HVAC controls available that provide greater energy efficiency, comfort and convenience, including:

Programmable digital thermostats. Digital thermostats use a thermistor to measure room temperature, and a microcontroller to convert that measurement to a digital temperature reading. Factory-installed software in programmable models allows a homeowner to input their temperature preferences for up to eight setback periods per day to maintain comfort while saving energy. Zoning systems. Zoning divides a home into two or more areas to provide more precise control of comfort and energy consumption. A typical zoning system …

Holiday HVAC Preparation

You might be prepared for the upcoming holidays, but can you say the same about your home comfort needs? Whether you’ll be spending intimate time alone with your family or opening up your home to host a party, it’s time to tackle some very basic holiday HVAC concerns. Here are a few you can check off your list right away:

Get the Furnace Checked Out

An annual inspection of your furnace will keep it running efficiently throughout the season and extend its operational lifespan. A qualified HVAC technician will also point out anything that needs to be fixed.

Clean or Replace the Air Filter

Depending on how often you run the furnace, the system’s air filter can fill up with dirt and debris very quickly. If your system doesn’t have an indicator light to alert you to it being clogged, check it at least once a month and either clean or replace it as needed.

Choose Between an Indoor and Outdoor Party

If you plan to have guests over, maintaining their comfort should be a top priority. A good way to make sure everyone is taken care of without becoming a burden on your …

How to Use a Backup Generator Safely

A generator can be a lifesaver during a power outage, but only if you practice each aspect of generator safety. These appliances use combustible fuels to produce electricity. Generators have the capacity to do a lot of good, but when misused, can cause serious harm.

Always use the generator outdoors.

Generators use gas or diesel, both of which create carbon monoxide. Using one indoors will create high amounts of CO in a short period. If you are using the generator near a window or door be sure to keep them closed at all times.

You may smell the fumes from the generator, but the CO created has no odor, color, or taste. CO can easily overcome you and your family. If you need to run the generator for extended periods of time, place a CO detector in the room closest to its location outdoors.

Watch where you connect

Never plug the generator into an electrical outlet inside your home to backfeed the powers supply. Ignoring this generator safety mandate could cause a serious or fatal shock to a neighbor or utility worker who is working on the line.

Extension Cords

Use heavy-duty extension cords to supply power to your appliances …

Money Saving Tips for Colder Months

Keeping your home warm during the winter season can be a costly endeavor, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Saving money is easy to do once you know where to concentrate your efforts. We suggest that you start with these quick tips:

Call an HVAC Technician

If you haven’t had your heating system checked in the past year, now’s the perfect time. A qualified technician will ensure optimal performance and efficiency, in addition to prolonging the unit’s lifespan.

Take Advantage of Your Programmable Thermostat

Most homes are now equipped with programmable thermostats that allow you to set the days and times when your heating system is in operation. This level of control will lower your energy usage, thereby saving you money on your monthly utility bill.

Add a Bit of Insulation

If you don’t have proper insulation in your home, heat will escape and force your system to work harder to achieve the same results. Adding insulation can usually be done by the homeowner, but if you have any problems, enlist the help of an HVAC technician who can pinpoint where insulation is needed most and add it for you.

Consider the …