Heat Pump Failures in Escambia County During Cold Snaps: What Homeowners Need to Know

As winter approaches, homeowners in Escambia County may start to worry about potential heating system failures during cold snaps. Escambia County, located in the panhandle of Florida, is known for primarily mild winters.

However, temperatures can still drop drastically when sudden cold fronts move through the region. In fact, according to data from Current Results, temperatures dropped all the way to 20 degrees Fahrenheit in December 2022. That’s a far cry from Escambia County’s average lows of 39–41°F.

This sudden drop in temperature can put a strain on heating systems and potentially lead to failures.

So, what should homeowners in Escambia County know about heating system failures during cold snaps? In this guide, our HVAC system experts will explore common reasons for heating system failures and provide tips on how to prevent them or deal with them if they do occur. Let’s begin:

Escambia County’s Cold Snaps – Why They Matter

Cold snaps refer to sudden drops in temperature, often below-freezing levels, that can last several days.

In Escambia County, these events typically occur between December and February when cold fronts move through the region. While these cold snaps may not be as extreme as those in other parts of the country, they can still cause problems for heating systems.

Sudden cold air can cause heating system problems, especially if they are not properly maintained or are older models. This strain can lead to failures and leave homeowners without heat during the coldest part of winter. As you can imagine, this can be quite uncomfortable and even dangerous for some.

Frequency of Heating System Breakdowns During Cold Snaps

During cold snaps, many heating systems are pushed to their limits. This is especially true in Escambia County, where temperatures can drop below freezing but are not usually consistently at those levels. As such, heating systems may be running more than usual and for extended periods.

As our team can attest, heating system failures account for a significant portion of our emergency service calls in Escambia County during the winter months. These breakdowns can occur in any type of heating system, including the boiler, furnace, or heat pump. That’s why it’s important to understand the potential causes and how to prevent them.

Common Causes of Heating System Failures

1. Lack of Regular Maintenance

Heating systems are complex and require regular upkeep to keep them running smoothly and efficiently. Without proper maintenance, minor issues can turn into major problems when put under strain during a cold snap.

Understandably, many homeowners in Escambia County may not have their heating systems serviced regularly since they are not used as frequently as in colder climates. However, this can lead to a domino effect of issues that result in a breakdown during the coldest part of winter. For example, a dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause the system to work harder, leading to overheating and potential component failures.

2. Older Systems Struggling with Unexpected Demand

Another common cause of heating problems during cold snaps is the age of the system. As an HVAC system ages, its efficiency decreases, and it may not be able to handle sudden spikes in demand. This can lead to breakdowns, especially if the system has not been properly maintained over the years.

In Escambia County, where temperatures are usually mild, some homeowners may have an older heating unit that has not been replaced due to infrequent use. However, when a cold snap hits and the HVAC system runs more than usual, it can push an already struggling system beyond its limits. This can result in a breakdown and leave homeowners without heated air during the coldest part of winter.

3. Frozen Pipes or Clogged Filters

During a cold snap, homeowners may also face issues with frozen pipes or dirty air filters in their heating systems. These problems can occur even with properly maintained systems, but they are more likely to happen if the system has not been serviced regularly.

Frozen pipes can cause major damage to heating equipment and potentially lead to costly repairs. This is because when water freezes, it expands and can crack or burst pipes. If this happens in an HVAC system, it can cause leaks and affect the overall performance.

Meanwhile, a clogged air filter restricts airflow and makes it difficult for the heater to distribute warm air throughout the home. This not only affects the comfort of those living in the house, but it can also put a strain on the system and cause it to overheat or break down. Regularly changing dirty air filters can help prevent this issue and keep the heating equipment running efficiently during cold snaps.

4. Thermostat Malfunctions or Incorrect Settings

Many people rely on their thermostats to regulate the temperature in their HVAC system. But if it is not working properly or set at the wrong temperature, it can cause heating problems.

For example, if the thermostat is not calibrated correctly, it may incorrectly read the temperature and cause the heating system to turn off when it should be running. This can result in a fluctuation of temperatures in the home and make it difficult to maintain a comfortable level. Additionally, if the thermostat is set too high, it can put unnecessary strain on the heating fuel and system and potentially lead to breakdowns.

Not only can these issues be frustrating for homeowners, but they can also lead to higher energy bills. According to UGA Today, studies have shown that even a 1-degree difference in the thermostat can lead to a 3% increase in heating costs.

How Escambia County Homeowners Can Be Proactive

Now that we have discussed some common heating problems, we want to share some tips for Escambia County homeowners. Here are some proactive steps homeowners can take before the winter: 

1. Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection

We always recommend that homeowners schedule a professional HVAC inspection before the winter season begins. After all, who better to check your heating system than a trained and experienced HVAC technician? They can catch any potential issues or inefficiencies before they turn into major heating problems.

During the inspection, the technician will thoroughly inspect and clean all components of your heating system. They will also check for any malfunctions or incorrect settings on your thermostat and make necessary adjustments.

2. Replace Old Air Filters

Another simple step that homeowners can take to maintain their heating system is to regularly replace old filters. This should typically be done every 1-3 months, depending on the types of air filters and frequency of use. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and put extra strain on your heat pump, leading to higher energy bills and potential breakdowns.

3. Upgrading Outdated Heating Systems 

If your heating system is outdated or constantly breaking down, it may be time to consider upgrading to a newer and more efficient model.

Not only will this save you money on energy bills in the long run, but it can also increase the value of your home. Additionally, many newer models come with advanced features such as an automatic pilot light and smart thermostats. This can help regulate temperature through heated air and save even more on energy costs.

Get Your Heating System Ready for Winter

At McNorton Mechanical, we understand the importance of a well-maintained and efficient heating system during the winter season. That’s why we offer comprehensive HVAC maintenance services to ensure your system is running at its best. Our trained technicians will thoroughly inspect, clean, and make any necessary adjustments to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long.

Don’t wait until there’s an issue with your heating system – contact us today and be prepared for whatever the cold weather brings.