Preventing Sun Damage to Your HVAC System and Energy Bill

May 1, 2024

Your HVAC unit works hard to keep your home comfortable, but did you know that it can also suffer from sun damage? The sun’s UV rays can cause significant wear and tear to your HVAC system, leading to costly repairs or even premature replacement. Below is a break down of some of the effects of sun damage on your HVAC unit and tips for protecting it from the sun’s harmful rays.



UV rays can cause a variety of problems for your HVAC unit, including:


Fading and cracking of exterior components:

Exposure to the sun's harsh UV rays can gradually deteriorate the paint finish, causing it to fade over time, while also promoting the breakdown of plastic components like brackets, gaskets, and hoses. The prolonged heat exposure can compromise the integrity of wiring, causing it to fray and potentially disrupt the system's functionality, making it not only less appealing aesthetically but also compromising its overall efficiency and performance.


Reduced efficiency:

When your HVAC unit is constantly exposed to direct sunlight, especially during the hot summer months, it must work tirelessly to cool your home. This increased workload not only puts more strain on the system but also leads to a spike in energy consumption, ultimately resulting in higher utility bills for you.


Overheating:

If your HVAC unit is consistently exposed to direct sunlight for an extended period of time, especially during the hotter months of the year, it can overheat, leading to potential compressor failure and the need for potentially costly AC repair services. Furthermore, this prolonged exposure to sunlight not only increases the risk of overheating but also forces your unit to work harder to maintain a comfortable temperature in your home or business, potentially driving up energy costs as well.



Ways to Prevent Sun Damage to Your HVAC Unit:


Shade your HVAC unit:

One of the most effective strategies to shield your HVAC unit from the harmful effects of sun exposure is to ensure that it is shaded from direct sunlight. Research has demonstrated that even a mere few hours of direct sunlight can result in a noticeable uptick of at least 10% in your monthly energy expenses. When contemplating the installation of an HVAC system, it is prudent to seek out a site that is naturally sheltered from direct sunlight to allow your unit to operate with optimal efficiency. In the event that a shaded area is not readily available, a good alternative is to plant trees or shrubs that can provide the necessary shading. Just make sure you leave sufficient space for routine repair and maintenance tasks to ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your HVAC system.


Place your thermostat away from direct sunlight:

Proper placement of the thermostat is essential for optimal temperature control in your home. It's important to avoid direct sunlight, as exposure to the sun’s rays can lead to inaccurate readings. This could result in your HVAC unit working harder than needed to maintain a comfortable climate. To ensure precise temperature measurement and efficient operation, the thermostat should be centrally situated in a room, away from any sources of heat or drafts, such as open windows. By positioning it effectively, the thermostat can relay the correct temperature information to the outdoor unit, allowing it to effectively regulate the indoor climate throughout the seasons, keeping your home cool in summer and warm in winter.


Schedule regular repair and maintenance:

Regular repair and maintenance are essential steps to minimize the impact of sun damage on your HVAC unit and extend its longevity. By scheduling routine inspections with a skilled technician, you not only ensure that potential issues are detected early but also prevent minor problems from escalating into costly repairs. These maintenance tasks may range from clearing debris around the unit to meticulously cleaning off dust accumulation. The technician may even inspect the unit for any faulty wires or components that might hinder its performance. This approach to HVAC care is crucial to promoting efficiency and reliability in your system.



If you’re in need of HVAC services, including installation or maintenance of your HVAC units, contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment. Our team of experienced technicians can help you protect your HVAC unit from sun damage and keep it running smoothly for years to come. Don’t wait until it’s too late – contact us today for all your HVAC needs!


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A snowflake is hanging from the side of an HVAC unit.

How to Take Care of Your HVAC During Winter

January 10, 2025
With freezing temperatures in the forecast and stormy winter weather on the horizon, it's essential to know how to care for your HVAC unit during snow and ice conditions. While most units are designed to endure harsh winter weather, being mindful of a few key factors can help prevent a mid-winter breakdown. Ensure Your Unit Isn’t Buried Under Snow A unit buried under snow can lead to various problems. Your HVAC system requires airflow to function effectively, and excessive snow coverage can restrict this airflow. If you find your unit covered in snow, carefully clear it away to avoid damaging the unit or the internal fans. As a general rule, maintain at least 18 inches of clear space around the unit year-round. If there is ice on top, gently break it away by hand. Avoid pouring warm water on the ice to melt it, as any water that seeps inside can refreeze, potentially causing more damage. Check That Your Furnace Exhaust Isn’t Blocked For those with gas furnaces, it's crucial to ensure that the exhaust vent is not obstructed. A blocked exhaust can cause your furnace to stop working and may even lead to dangerous carbon monoxide leaks into your home. Snow or ice can often block this exhaust pipe. If your furnace begins to behave unusually, contact a professional to diagnose the issue before it escalates into a larger problem. Additionally, for gas furnace owners, remember to check your fire and carbon monoxide alarms as part of your winter HVAC maintenance. It’s always better to be safe than sorry. Inspect Your Air Filter Regularly checking your air filters is essential. During the coldest months, your HVAC unit operates more frequently, pulling in increased amounts of air through the filter. This results in more dust, dirt, and debris accumulating, making regular filter checks and replacements even more critical. Keep Your Unit Clear of Melting Snow and Ice Be mindful of gutters or water runoff that may drip onto or into your HVAC unit. In freezing temperatures, this can create a significant risk for your system. The real concern is not that the snow or ice from above is dripping, but rather the drips that may enter the unit and then refreeze. While HVAC units are built to withstand winter weather, ice forming inside the unit can lead to problems that might eventually result in a system breakdown. Taking proactive steps to care for your HVAC system during icy weather is crucial for ensuring its efficiency and longevity. Regular maintenance can prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems that may require costly repairs. By keeping your unit clear of snow and ice, checking exhaust vents, inspecting air filters, and monitoring the surrounding environment, you can help your HVAC system operate smoothly throughout the winter months. Remember, it's always wise to enlist the help of a professional if you're uncertain about any maintenance tasks or if you notice any irregularities in your HVAC system's performance. Doing so can provide peace of mind and ensure that your home remains warm and comfortable, even during the harshest winter conditions. Trust B. Dumont Heating and Air for all of your winter maintenance and repairs.
A person is closing a vent on a wooden floor.

Is Closing Vents the Key to Saving Energy This Winter?

December 27, 2024
Closing vents might not be the best way to save energy this winter. Let's discuss the effects of closing your air vents and what other ways you can cut down on your HVAC system's energy consumption.

Frozen Pipes and Your HVAC

December 13, 2024
As we enter the chill of winter, it’s essential to check that your heating system is functioning effectively. Not only does this provide warmth for your home or business, but it also helps shield your pipes from freezing. Managing Frozen Pipes and Safeguarding Your HVAC System During Winter In the colder months, one frequent issue homeowners encounter is pipes freezing. While the potential damage to plumbing is often top of mind, the implications for your HVAC system are sometimes overlooked. When pipes freeze or burst, they can cause water leaks, obstruct airflow, and lead to costly repairs to your heating system. Fortunately, taking proactive measures can help you avoid these complications before they arise. Why Frozen Pipes Are a Concern for Your HVAC System Frozen pipes can disrupt your HVAC system in various ways. When water freezes inside the pipes, it can create blockages or even lead to bursts, resulting in leaks that can harm your furnace or air handler. Additionally, some HVAC systems function on a closed-loop principle involving water or refrigerant, meaning that any plumbing complications might hinder your system’s performance and efficiency. Strategies to Prevent Pipe Freezing in Your Home To keep your pipes and HVAC system safe during winter, consider the following preventive actions: Insulate Exposed Pipes: Pipes situated in unheated spaces like basements, attics, or crawlspaces are more susceptible to freezing. Use insulation to help maintain a consistent temperature around them. Keep the Heat Running: If you plan to be away from home for any length of time, set your thermostat to a minimum of 55°F to prevent drastic indoor temperature drops that could lead to frozen pipes. Open Under-Sink Cabinets: On particularly cold nights, open the cabinet doors beneath sinks, especially in kitchens and bathrooms that are located against exterior walls. This allows warmer air from the room to circulate around the pipes, lowering the risk of freezing. Drip Your Faucets: In areas prone to freezing, allowing a slight drip from a faucet can help keep the water flowing through the pipes, reducing the likelihood of freezing. Seal Cracks Around Windows and Doors: Cold air can infiltrate through gaps and cracks, chilling your living space and plumbing. Sealing these openings helps maintain a stable indoor temperature and relieves pressure on your HVAC system. Steps to Take if Your Pipes Freeze If you suspect your pipes have frozen, stay calm and take the following actions: Shut Off the Water Supply: If you notice reduced water pressure or strange sounds, immediately turn off the main water supply to prevent further damage. Apply Heat with Care: Use a hairdryer or space heater to gently warm the frozen pipes. Start from the faucet and gradually move toward the frozen section. Contact a Professional: If you’re unable to safely thaw pipes or observe any cracks, it’s wise to call a professional plumber or HVAC technician, if the frozen area if affecting your HVAC system, right away. They can diagnose the issue and ensure your system is back in working order. B. Dumont Heating and Air is here to help you with any heating related issues this winter! Don't hesitate to reach out to our team to schedule inspection, maintenance, or repairs today.
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