What do you do if your HVAC breaks down? Preparing for HVAC problems in Kansas is important, as it’s not uncommon to deal with extreme weather situations. This article will focus on ways to prepare in the event your heater or air conditioner is out of commission being repaired or replaced, including how to deal with no HVAC system amidst extreme heat and cold, and finding and hiring a local HVAC company.
HVAC Troubleshooting
In a recent blog post, we covered HVAC troubleshooting for common heater problems. From our experience, the most common issues with HVAC systems arise from dirty air filters, faulty thermostats, pilot light or ignition issues, and dirty condensers or evaporator coils. You can learn more about troubleshooting common HVAC problems here. Below, we will cover ways to prepare yourself for HVAC problems.
Getting Your HVAC System Repaired or Replaced
When an HVAC system is broken down, customers do not want to wait around long without their air conditioner or heater working. It’s best to take the time to do your research to determine which HVAC company you will want to hire if your HVAC system breaks down. Below are some tips to help you make an educated decision on which HVAC company is the best fit to service your HVAC system.
- Google HVAC Repair Companies in your general location.
- Take time to read HVAC company reviews. Reputable HVAC companies will likely have many Google reviews from customers with a summary of their experience.
- Contact the HVAC company of your choosing to ensure that they work on your HVAC make and model.
- Once you select the HVAC company that seems like the best fit for you, be sure to save their phone number in a place that you will remember – such as, as a contact in your phone or on your refrigerator.
- Consider investing in an HVAC maintenance plan to have your system maintained on a regular basis. At Larry Cook Heating & Cooling, customers who are enrolled in our offered maintenance programs receive priority response time – so that in the event of an HVAC problem they don’t wait long to receive repair services. Also, HVAC maintenance helps prevent emergency repairs from being necessary.
HVAC Extreme Temperature Situations
Preparing for HVAC problems looks different depending on where you are located in the United States as various regions experience different weather patterns. In Kansas, it’s not uncommon for summers to bring temperatures over 100 degrees and in the winter months for temperatures to remain below freezing.
Winter and Cold Weather Preparation
In the winter months, preparing for HVAC problems looks similar to the preparations one would take for no electricity. We’ve put together a variety of preparation tips below.
Alternative Heat Sources
Alternative heat sources are items that every winter preparer should have in their home! Alternative heat sources include items such as: gas generators, plug-in heaters, heavy blankets, and wood burning stoves or fireplaces. If you have a wood-burning stove or fireplace, remember to always keep wood handy for emergencies. It is best to have multiple heat source options to choose from to stay warm while you’re waiting for your HVAC system to be repaired. If its within your budget, invest in a portable generator!
Dress in Layers
It seems obvious, but it’s worth mentioning – putting on layers of clothing should be on the top of your to-do list in the event your HVAC system breaks down during the extreme cold winter months. Your base clothing layer should be snug and comfortable. As far as fabrics go, most experts recommend merino wool, and caution against cotton as cotton tends to hold moisture and can leave you freezing. After the base layer, you should have a mid-layer for retaining heat. Great materials for mid-layers include down and wool. Lastly, a waterproof outer layer should be worn to protect against elements such as rain, wind, or snow. Don’t forget to protect your head, face, and toes!
Summer and Hot Weather Preparation
There are not many circumstances that are more uncomfortable than being stuck in 100-degree weather without air conditioning. Below are a handful of tips to help you keep your home cool in the event you’re forced to repair or replace your HVAC system during hot weather.
Keeping Your House Cool
Keeping a home cool during the extreme summer heat can be difficult. One of the best things that you can do to help keep the temperature cool in your home when your HVAC system is not working during extreme heat is to block the sun from coming inside. For example, keep blinds and drapes closed. Also, if you are not using certain rooms in your home, keep the doors shut. Next, don’t forget to use your fans. Set your ceiling fans to rotate counter-clockwise to push the air straight down. It’s a good idea to have a few ice bags on hand, as well.
Hiring an HVAC Repair Expert
We hope the tips in this article are helpful in case you find yourself without a functioning HVAC system during extreme weather. Remember, investing in regular HVAC maintenance by hiring an HVAC expert is the best thing you can do because HVAC maintenance helps prevent HVAC problems from arising in the first place.
Contact us today to schedule your HVAC maintenance appointment!
