Winter Home Maintenance Tips: Protecting Your Plumbing and HVAC Systems in South-Central Pennsylvania
As temperatures drop in south-central Pennsylvania, home contractors are preparing for a surge in repair requests due to the extreme cold. Larry Gassert from Lancaster Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling emphasized the likelihood of frozen pipes during windy and cold conditions. Stan Hill of Shrewsbury Plumbing and Heating mentioned being on standby for HVAC and plumbing emergencies, with an expected influx of 120 calls during frigid spells.
Issues such as malfunctioning thermostats, drained batteries, and frozen condensate drains are common during the winter months. Gassert highlighted the vulnerability of pipes near exterior walls or garages to freezing, as well as the risk of HVAC systems shutting down if vent pipes are obstructed by snow. To prevent freezing pipes, contractors advise running faucets at a drip, using insulated pipe covers, and regularly changing HVAC filters.
Regular maintenance of heating and plumbing systems is crucial for ensuring uninterrupted water and heat supply during cold snaps. Hill stressed the importance of yearly HVAC system check-ups for both efficiency and safety. By taking proactive measures and staying on top of maintenance, homeowners can avoid costly repairs and ensure their comfort and safety during extreme weather conditions.