Prepping Your HVAC for Extreme Weather

In an era of increasingly unpredictable, intense weather, our homes have become more than just shelters; they’re our fortresses against the elements. And at the heart of keeping that fortress comfortable and safe is a well-maintained HVAC system.

From scorching heat domes to chilling cold snaps, and from the fury of a storm to the insidious creep of wildfire smoke, extreme weather events demand that our heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems are not just functional, but resilient.

Ignoring your HVAC system until a crisis hits is a recipe for discomfort, potential damage, and costly emergency repairs. Proactive maintenance is key to ensuring your home remains an oasis of comfort, no matter what Mother Nature throws out in Shreveport, LA. However, there are additional steps you can take to help protect your heating and cooling system. 

Central Aire Heating & A/C developed this comprehensive guide to preparing your HVAC system for a range of extreme weather events.

The Unseen HVAC Threat: Wildfire Smoke

Wildfires are no longer confined to specific regions; their smoke plumes can travel thousands of miles, blanketing areas far from the blaze. This smoke carries microscopic particles and hazardous gases that can severely impact indoor air quality and strain your HVAC system.

HVAC Prep Before the Smoke Arrives

• Replace or Upgrade Your Air Filter: This is your first line of defense. Replace standard MERV 8 filters with higher-efficiency options, such as MERV 11 or MERV 13, if your system is compatible. These filters are designed to capture smaller particles, including those found in smoke. If your system cannot use higher-MERV filters, install a new one for optimal filtration.
• Seal Your Home: Walk around your home and identify any gaps or cracks in windows, doors, and foundations. Use weatherstripping and caulk to seal these openings and prevent smoke from infiltrating your living spaces.
• Consider a Whole-Home Air Purifier: For those in wildfire-prone areas or with respiratory sensitivities, a whole-home air purification system integrated with your HVAC can provide an extra layer of protection, filtering out even the finest particles.
• Clean Your Ducts (Proactively): If your ducts are full of dust and debris, they can become a reservoir for smoke particles once they’ve entered your system. Regular duct cleaning can help ensure your system is as clean as possible before a smoke event.

HVAC Care During a Smoke Event

• Set Your HVAC to “Recirculate”: If your system has a fresh air intake, switch it to recirculate mode to prevent outdoor air (and smoke) from being drawn into your home.
• Run Your Fan Continuously: Operating the fan continuously, even without heating or cooling, will help your filter remove particles from the air more effectively.
• Keep Windows and Doors Closed: This might seem obvious, but it’s crucial to minimize any direct entry points for smoke.
• Change the Filter: As your HVAC system works to filter out any smoke that infiltrates your home, be sure to replace your filter as needed to maintain proper filtration and airflow. 

Battling the Heat: HVAC and Heat Waves

Record-breaking temperatures are becoming more frequent, putting immense strain on air conditioning systems. A sudden spike in demand can overload the grid and, if your AC system isn’t ready, lead to a miserable indoor experience.

HVAC Prep Before the Heat Hits

• Schedule a Professional Tune-Up: An annual AC tune-up is paramount. Technicians will clean coils, check refrigerant levels, inspect electrical components, and ensure all parts are functioning optimally. This preventative maintenance can improve efficiency and prevent breakdowns during peak demand.
• Clean or Replace Your Air Filter: A clogged filter restricts airflow, making your AC work harder and less efficiently. Replace it every 1-3 months, or more frequently during heavy use.
• Clear Outdoor Unit: Ensure your outdoor condenser unit is free from dirt, leaves, and debris. Clear any vegetation or obstructions within a two-foot radius to allow for proper airflow.
• Check Refrigerant Levels: Low refrigerant levels indicate a leak and will severely impede your AC’s cooling capacity. This should be addressed by a professional.
• Insulate Your Attic and Walls: Proper insulation helps keep heat out, reducing the workload on your AC system.

HVAC Care During a Heat Wave

• Set a Reasonable Thermostat Temperature: Avoid dramatic temperature drops, as this forces your system to work harder. Aim for a comfortable but energy-efficient setting.
• Utilize Smart Thermostats: Program your thermostat to raise the temperature when you’re away and lower it before you return, minimizing energy waste.
• Close Blinds and Curtains: Block direct sunlight to reduce heat gain through windows.
• Avoid Using Heat-Generating Appliances: Limit the use of ovens, dryers, and other appliances that produce significant heat during the hottest parts of the day.

Bracing for the Chill: Unusual Cold Snaps

While extreme heat often gets more attention, unexpected cold snaps can be equally damaging, especially to heat pumps or furnaces that aren’t prepared for them. Freezing pipes and malfunctioning heating systems can quickly turn a cold snap into an emergency.

HVAC Prep Before the Cold Arrives

• Professional Furnace/Heat Pump Tune-Up: Just like your AC, your heating system needs an annual check-up. Technicians will inspect burners, heat exchangers, electrical connections, and safety controls.
• Test Your System: Before the true cold sets in, turn on your furnace or heat pump to ensure it’s functioning correctly. Listen for unusual noises and check for consistent heat output.
• Change Your Air Filter: A clean filter is crucial for efficient heating, as it promotes good airflow.
• Check for Leaky Ducts: Leaky ducts can lose up to 30% of your conditioned air before it reaches your living spaces. Seal any visible leaks with mastic sealant or metallic tape.
• Inspect and Clear Vents: Ensure all heating vents are open and not blocked by furniture or drapes to allow proper heat distribution.
• Insulate Exposed Pipes: If you have pipes in unheated areas (crawl spaces, attics), insulate them to prevent freezing.

HVAC During a Cold Snap

• Maintain a Consistent Temperature: Avoid turning your heat off completely when you leave your home. Maintaining a lower, consistent temperature is more energy-efficient than letting the house get very cold and then trying to rapidly reheat it.
• Keep Interior Doors Open: This allows heat to circulate more freely throughout your home.
• Consider a Backup Heat Source: In areas prone to power outages during cold weather, a safe, alternative heat source (like a gas fireplace or portable heater) can provide peace of mind.

Weathering the Storms: Heavy Rains and High Winds

Severe storms, whether hurricanes, tornadoes, or intense thunderstorms, can bring heavy rains, high winds, and power outages, all of which can impact your HVAC system.

HVAC Prep Before the Storm

• Secure Outdoor Unit: Ensure your outdoor condenser unit is firmly anchored. In high-wind areas, consider strapping it down.
• Clear Debris: Remove any loose items around your outdoor unit that could become projectiles in high winds. Trim overhanging branches.
• Check for Drainage: Ensure the area around your outdoor unit drains well to prevent water from pooling and damaging electrical components.
• Consider a Surge Protector: Power surges, often associated with lightning strikes, can severely damage your HVAC system’s delicate electronics. A whole-home surge protector offers comprehensive protection.

HVAC Care During and After the Storm

• Turn Off HVAC During Power Outages: If the power goes out, switch off your HVAC system at the thermostat and potentially the breaker. This prevents damage when power is restored, as surges can occur.
• Inspect After the Storm: Once it’s safe, visually inspect your outdoor unit for any damage from debris or water.
• Address Water Damage Promptly: If your indoor unit (furnace or air handler) has experienced water intrusion, do not operate it. Call an HVAC professional to assess the damage and make necessary repairs.

The Bottom Line: Prioritize Professional HVAC Maintenance

While many of these tips are DIY-friendly, the single most impactful action you can take to prepare your HVAC system for extreme weather in Shreveport, LA is to schedule regular, professional maintenance. 

A certified HVAC technician from Central Aire Heating & A/C can identify potential issues before they become major problems, ensure your system runs at peak efficiency, and advise you on specific measures to address your local climate challenges.

By taking proactive steps, you can ensure your HVAC system is ready to face whatever extreme weather comes its way, keeping your fortress safe and comfortable through every season. Call us at (318) 747-4965 or request service online.