As it is usually out of sight, out of mind, most people don’t put too much thought into their HVAC system until it stops working properly. Understanding the basics of how your system works will not only help you identify if it’s working properly, but it could also potentially save you money.
Does Being Outside Affect My HVAC Unit?
While many are concerned about the impact of the elements, the components of an HVAC system are built to withstand most extreme conditions. Most of your A/C unit is made up of aluminum, copper, and other forgiving, yet sturdy metals. Additionally, the electrical connections and other components are well-sealed so they are not exposed to moisture. However, other external factors, such as high winds, falling debris, flooding, will ultimately always affect your unit.
Should I Cover My HVAC Unit for the Winter?
The answer is ‘yes’ if you are not using it, but be sure to cover it with the appropriate materials. You should select a commercially available cover that has the proper ventilation holes in it. Without ventilation holes, your cover will create an airtight enclosure, causing it to trap moisture that could potentially rot the unit’s wiring, breakdown the rubber components, and corrode the metal parts.
How Does Humidity Affect My HVAC System?
Humidity can dramatically decrease the efficiency of your HVAC system. Air conditioners work to cool your home by removing excess heat and moisture from the air. However, when the humidity levels are excessively high, which is common in Jacksonville, your HVAC system has to work much harder to cool your home. If your system is the wrong size or if it’s old, it might not have the capacity to keep your home at the desired temperature.
Humidity also affects your home’s heating. Generally, during the winter, the humidity levels drop, which can make your home feel much cooler than it really is. Since Florida is humid nearly year-round, the dramatic drop in humidity that comes with our few weeks of winter can wreak havoc on your heating, causing it to overexert itself and costing you lots of money in repairs and energy bills.
Humidity can drastically affect the way your home’s HVAC system works. If you would like more information about how to keep your HVAC system running at its peak performance at all times, please contact Snyder Heating & Air Conditioning today and let us show you how we can help keep you comfortable while saving you money.
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