Winter HVAC Prep: How to Prevent Frozen Pipes & Heater Breakdowns

As the temperatures drop, preparing your HVAC system for winter is essential to avoid costly repairs, energy inefficiency, and uncomfortable living conditions. Freezing pipes and heater breakdowns are common issues during the cold months, but with proper preparation, you can minimize these risks. Here’s your guide to winter HVAC prep, including tips to prevent frozen pipes and heater breakdowns.

1. Preventing Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter-related plumbing issues, and they can cause severe water damage when they thaw. Pipes that are exposed to cold temperatures, such as those in uninsulated areas like attics, basements, or garages, are at the highest risk. Here’s how to protect your pipes this winter:

a. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Insulating your pipes is one of the most effective ways to prevent them from freezing. Use foam pipe insulation or fiberglass sleeves to cover exposed pipes in areas prone to cold temperatures.

• What to Insulate: Focus on pipes in unheated spaces like attics, basements, and crawl spaces.
• Why It Works: Insulation helps keep the heat in and prevents the cold air from reaching your pipes.

b. Let Faucets Drip

If you know the temperature will drop significantly, allow faucets connected to exposed pipes to drip slowly. This helps relieve pressure inside the pipes and reduces the likelihood of freezing.

• Which Faucets to Leave Open: Typically, faucets near exterior walls are the most vulnerable. A slow drip will help prevent pressure buildup.

c. Keep Cabinet Doors Open

If you have plumbing under sinks or in cabinets (especially near exterior walls), open the cabinet doors to allow warm air from your home to reach the pipes.

Where to Do This: Kitchens, bathrooms, or utility sinks with exposed plumbing.

d. Maintain a Consistent Temperature

Try to keep your home at a steady temperature during the winter, even when you’re away. Set your thermostat to at least 55°F (13°C) to keep the interior of your home warm enough to protect the pipes

• Thermostat Tip: Avoid turning the thermostat down too low during the night or while on vacation.

e. Seal Gaps and Cracks

Seal any gaps around windows, doors, and areas where pipes enter your home, including the attic, basement, and crawl spaces. Cold drafts can contribute to freezing pipes.

• Materials to Use: Caulk, foam sealant, or weatherstripping can be used to block drafts around windows and doors.

2. Preventing Heater Breakdowns

Your heating system works overtime during winter to keep your home warm. Regular maintenance and preparation can help you avoid unexpected heater breakdowns. Here’s how to ensure your system is ready for the cold months:

a. Replace Air Filters

A clogged air filter can significantly reduce the efficiency of your heater and cause it to overheat or work harder than necessary. Replace your air filter at the start of the season and check it monthly.

• When to Replace: Every 1-3 months, depending on the type of filter and usage.
• Why It Matters: A clean filter allows for proper airflow, reduces strain on the system, and improves air quality.

b. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

An annual HVAC maintenance checkup by a certified technician is key to ensuring your heater runs smoothly throughout winter. During the tune-up, the technician will inspect your system for any potential issues and perform necessary maintenance, such as cleaning the coils, checking the thermostat, and testing the system for leaks.

• Benefits of Maintenance: Improved system efficiency, longer lifespan, and fewer repairs.

c. Check for Leaks in Ductwork

Leaky ducts reduce airflow, making your system work harder to heat your home, which can increase your energy bills and lead to breakdowns.

• What to Check: Inspect ducts for visible holes, gaps, or disconnected sections. Seal them with mastic sealant or duct tape.
• Why It Matters: Sealing leaks improves efficiency, reduces energy costs, and ensures even heating throughout your home.

d. Clear the Area Around Your Heater

Ensure that there is no furniture, drapery, or debris blocking the air intake or vents around your heater. This allows for proper airflow and prevents overheating.

• Safety Tip: Never store flammable materials near your heating unit, and always keep the area around your unit clear.

e. Test the Thermostat

Check the thermostat settings and calibration before the cold weather sets in. If it isn’t functioning correctly, you might experience uneven heating or even system malfunctions.

• What to Test: Set the thermostat to the desired temperature and observe if your system responds promptly. If it’s a smart thermostat, ensure it’s connected to Wi-Fi and functioning properly.

f. Inspect for Carbon Monoxide Leaks (for Gas Heaters)

If you have a gas furnace, it’s important to inspect it for any potential carbon monoxide (CO) leaks, especially as it works harder during the winter months. A CO leak can be deadly and is often undetectable without the proper tools.

• How to Check: Have a professional technician inspect your furnace and install a carbon monoxide detector in key areas of your home.
• Why It Matters: Early detection of CO leaks can save lives and prevent costly repairs.

3. Additional Tips for Winter HVAC Prep

a. Consider a Programmable Thermostat

If you haven’t already, consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat. This allows you to set temperature schedules based on your needs, which can save energy and reduce wear on your heating system.

• Why It Helps: By lowering the temperature when you’re away or asleep, you save energy and money without sacrificing comfort.

b. Insulate Your Home

Proper insulation is key to maintaining consistent indoor temperatures and reducing the workload on your HVAC system. Insulate your attic, walls, and floors to prevent heat loss.

• Focus Areas: Start with the attic and check for gaps or leaks around windows and doors.

c. Prepare for Power Outages

Winter storms can lead to power outages, which can leave you without heat. Prepare by having a backup power source, such as a portable generator, or by making sure your system is equipped with a battery backup.

• Keep Essentials Handy: Store blankets, portable heaters, and flashlights in case of emergency.

Final Thoughts

Preparing your HVAC system for winter is crucial for preventing issues like frozen pipes and heater breakdowns. By following this winter HVAC checklist, you can ensure your home or business stays comfortable and energy-efficient throughout the colder months.

Need help with your HVAC system or frozen pipe prevention? Browse our selection of HVAC parts and motors to keep your system running smoothly this winter: