Enduring the scorching Melbourne weather can be tough, but can your Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system weather it without a hitch?
Be it extra cold, windy, rainy, or hot, every season brings some effects on the HVAC system, which can cause problems later on.
Summers are exceptionally hard for people and HVAC systems, too. The burning temperatures affect HVAC performance, efficiency and longevity. Complaints related to hot weather conditions typically surpass those in any other season, resulting in insufficient thermal control and discomfort.
Affects Of Scorching Weather On HVAC
Sweltering heat can also take a toll on our HVAC systems. Let us walk you through how extreme heat can influence the functionality and efficiency of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning setup.
Reduced Efficiency
Due to the high temperature outside, your HVAC system will not be able to achieve the desired temperature or provide cooling as it would normally. The HVAC system works harder and consumes more energy, resulting in insufficient cooling. This reduced efficiency is due to the temperature extremes, not the malfunctioning of the unit.
Increased Stress
To achieve the required temperature and provide efficient cooling indoors, the HVAC system has to work for longer period than usual. This brings more stress to all the components within the system, especially the compressor. In the long run, this additional stress isn’t good for the HVAC and affects its performance.
Increased Wear And Tear
When HVAC works for more hours and puts more effort into maintaining temperature, it experiences more wear and tear. Filters get dirty and clogged. Ducts and electrical wiring get worn out, which eventually affects all other components too.
Overheating
Elevated external temperatures and mechanical strain in achieving the desired temperature can lead to HVAC overheating. This may prompt the system to shut down, causing temporary discomfort in your home until it cools down and resumes operation.
Higher Energy Bills
HVAC consumes additional energy for working harder and maintaining temperatures when it’s hot outside. Additionally, people also run HVAC for extended hours to stay cool. Both situations result in more energy consumption, leading to higher energy bills.
Shortened Life Span
Overheating, increased wear and tear and mechanical stress cause the HVAC to work harder, use more energy, and corrode its internal components. These factors strain the HVAC system, detrimentally affecting its overall health, leading to potential system failures and a shortened lifespan, causing premature deterioration.
Now that we know how the sweltering weather can affect your HVAC, here are some tips to reduce the effects of heat on your HVAC.
How To Reduce The Affects Of Scorching Weather On HVAC?
Using HVAC during summer is inevitable, and the impacts of the season are likewise unavoidable. Nevertheless, there are several ways that can mitigate the effects of the heat and assist your HVAC system in maintaining optimal performance.
Clean And Change Air Filters Frequently
The HVAC system works for more hours during summer to provide cool temperatures indoors, which means the filter gets more dirt and debris. Frequent cleaning and changing air filters removes dirt, etc, from the system and allows the HVAC to work smoothly.
Ensure Proper Insulation
Properly insulating the ductwork and electrical wiring saves them from physical damage because of hot weather. Insulation protects the HVAC system and helps it overcome weather effects.
Use Energy-Efficient Settings
Using energy-efficient settings helps mitigate the effects of hot weather on your HVAC. The HVAC system works at its maximum efficiency when the outside temperature is 95- F or higher. Lowering the internal temperature won’t do any good and will stress the system even more.
Using energy-efficient settings according to the outside temperature does not put additional stress on the system and helps it to work smoothly.
Use Ceiling Fans
Ceiling fans make the room cooler and help circulate the conditioned air throughout the space. Both of these functions lessen the burden on the HVAC system and keep your home comfortable.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Ventilation is important to regulate temperatures and ensure indoor air quality. Adequately installing the air handlers, ducts, return vents, and blower assemblies guarantees uninterrupted airflow and adequate temperature maintenance.
Close The Windows
Keeping the windows closed doesn’t allow warm air from outside to enter the home. It helps in maintaining the indoor temperature and prevents HVAC from working harder, reducing the effects of hot temperatures on HVAC.
Use Curtains And Blinds
Curtains and blinds over closed windows add a layer of insulation to your home. They further prevent the entry of hot air through the windows and help maintain the indoor temperature.
Use Air Blocks
Using air blocks on window panels and under the doors blocks the flow of air from outside to inside or leaking of conditioned air from indoors to other rooms or outdoors. They efficiently restrict temperature loss due to airflow, helping HVAC maintain the desired temperature. Air blocks reduce the stress an HVAC system experiences in cooling during scorching weather.
Arrange A Shade For HVAC Outdoor Unit
The outdoor air unit is more susceptible to temperature effects. Condensing foil, fan and compressor in the outdoor unit are important for the functioning of the HVAC system. Arranging a shelter for the outdoor unit saves it from direct sunlight and weather effects.
Thermostat Settings
Thermostat settings play an important role in protecting the HVAC system from stress, overheating, breakdown, and malfunctioning. The thermostat helps the HVAC system adjust according to temperature and humidity levels. Adjusting the setting according to climatic conditions reduces the negative effects on HVAC and improves efficiency.
Schedule Regular Maintenance
Scheduling regular maintenance is one of the most crucial steps in reducing the effects of summer on your HVAC. Regular inspections, filter changes and fixing of small issues keep your system in good shape, allowing it to give optimum performance efficiently.
Check out the range of services included in regular maintenance by clicking here.
When looking for reliable HVAC services, pick professional services from experts. With vast experience in installing, maintaining and repairing HVAC systems from various brands, Surrey Air has comprehensive solutions to protect it from weather effects. Our services prepare your system to fight the hot and humid Melbourne summers, work efficiently, and provide maximum thermal comfort.
Save your HVAC from scorching weather effects! Contact Surrey Air now.
