Winters in Michigan, besides being freezing, bring heavy snow and biting wind chills. Undoubtedly, under these conditions, your heating system will work harder than at any other time of the year. Even though your HVAC unit has been dependable for years, it can run into problems due to the high demand and temperatures below freezing. As such, it’s imperative to prepare your home for a midwinter HVAC emergency for peace of mind, safety, and comfort all winter with these tips from our heating service pros.
Why Midwinter HVAC Emergencies Are Common in Michigan
Since Michigan experiences severe winter seasons, your heating system may often run continuously during cold snaps. Furnaces, boilers, and heating pumps cycle more frequently, which takes a toll on motors, igniters, and heat exchangers. This increase in wear escalates minor issues into full system failures when temperatures stay low for extended periods.
Additionally, winter storms create more risk. Power outages, drifting snow, and the buildup of ice around the vents can block the intake and exhaust pipes. As a result, your HVAC unit will perform poorly and could even cause safety shutoffs.
Know the Warning Signs of System Failure
Typically, your heating system will warn you before it completely breaks down. Therefore, it’s imperative to know what indicators to act on before they turn into full emergencies during these cold months. First, unusual noises are among the most common warning signs. You may hear banging, grinding, or screeching sounds, which indicate mechanical problems.
Second, your furnace may have shorter on and off cycles, which signals issues with the thermostat or air filter. Third, watch for inconsistent heating throughout your home. If some rooms remain colder than others, this could indicate issues with the blower or ductwork. Fourth, rising energy bills with no increase in usage suggest that your HVAC system is overworking to maintain comfortable temperatures.
Finally, strange odors emanating from the vents warrant prompt action. Burning odors typically indicate electrical malfunctions, whereas metallic odors suggest mechanical wear. But if you smell gas, evacuate your home, and contact us for emergency services.
Your Pre-Winter Preparedness Checklist
Did you know the best way to handle an emergency is to prevent it from happening? Therefore, you can remain proactive and take several steps before winter to reduce the risk of emergencies happening.
Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up
The most important action you could take is scheduling heating maintenance for your HVAC unit every fall. At Matheson Heating, Air & Plumbing, we have NATE-certified technicians who will inspect, clean, and adjust your furnace or boiler. Some of the common issues that we identify during these check-ups are either worn-out ignitors or dirty flame sensors.
Change Your Air Filters Regularly
A clogged air filter restricts air flow, causing the furnace to overheat and shut down. This is a safety feature known as short cycling. Therefore, ensure you check the filters monthly during the heating season and reach out to Matheson Heating, Air & Plumbing once you notice they’re dirty. For most homes in Michigan, changing the filter every 90 days is a good rule. However, for households with pets, you may need to change it more frequently.
Seal Drafts and Insulate
If your home is drafty, your heating system often works harder, increasing your energy bills as well as the wear and tear. And since your system will overwork during winter, seal any gaps around the windows, doors, and any inlets to your house. Also, ensure you insulate the attic and basement to keep the warm air inside your living spaces. Doing this ensures less pressure on your HVAC unit.
Know Your System and Main Shut-Offs
It’s essential for you to understand the basics of your heating system. Ensure you know the location of the emergency shut-off switch or how to turn off the gas supply if you use a gas furnace. In case of an emergency, shutting off the system prevents further damage. Further, make sure the area around the furnace or water heater is clear of debris, paint, and other flammable materials.
Invest in System Upgrades and Improvements
Older heating systems, more so those exceeding 15 years, are prone to failures. While upgrading to a new one might seem expensive, it’s one of the best investments as a Michigan homeowner. Modern HVAC systems offer better efficiency and performance and are cost-effective. The best time to replace your system is before extreme weather hits. During this time, you’ll visit Matheson Heating, Air & Plumbing, explore the options, and schedule installation at your convenience.
What to Do When the Heat Goes Out
Your first instinct when your heat stops working might be to panic, but remain calm. Then follow these steps to stay safe and get help quickly.
Check the Obvious First
Most of the time, simple troubleshooting is all that matters. Check whether the thermostat is set to “heat” and whether the set temperature is higher than the room temperature. Also, check whether the batteries are dead. Another problem might be a tripped circuit breaker shutting off the furnace. If you know the location of your furnace’s emergency shut-off switch, ensure it’s not flipped off. And if you have a gas furnace, check that other gas appliances in your home are working to rule out a service outage.
Assess for Immediate Safety Hazards
At Matheson Heating, Air & Plumbing, we always advocate for safety first. If you smell natural gas or hear a hissing sound near a gas line, evacuate promptly, and call us from a safe distance. Similarly, if you spot smoke or sparks coming from a furnace, disconnect the power at the breaker, and call us for assistance.
Take Steps to Protect Your Home During a Heating Failure
Once your Michigan home loses heat during winter, your plumbing is also at risk. An effective way to prevent your pipes from freezing is to open the cabinet doors, allowing warm air to circulate around the pipes. If your plumbing lines run through the exterior walls, let a trickle of cold water from the faucets. You should also keep your family in one room, shut the doors, and if possible, use a safe portable heater to keep warm. Finally, avoid using an oven, charcoal grill, or portable generator indoors lest you risk carbon monoxide poisoning.
Call for Professional Help
After you’re done with the safety checks, call the experts. Here at Matheson Heating, Air & Plumbing, we’re a local company that offers 24/7 emergency service. We have a fleet of fully stocked trucks and experienced crews who are always ready to diagnose and repair your system in a single visit.
Trust Matheson Heating, Air & Plumbing for Emergency Preparedness
At Matheson Heating, Air & Plumbing, we understand the challenges Michigan homeowners face during winter. Since 1946, our mission has been to guarantee complete satisfaction and create the smoothest journey for every customer. Besides heating options, you can also explore our air conditioning, plumbing, and indoor air quality services. Our technicians are experts at emergency repairs, preventive maintenance, and system replacements.
Don’t wait for a breakdown to schedule a maintenance with us. Contact Matheson Heating, Air & Plumbing today for emergency repairs or to book an appointment in Michigan.