Your local weather and climate affect various aspects of your HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) system. Below are some ways weather and climate affect HVAC.
1. Weather and Climate Determine Choice of System
The HVAC industry has different products for different climates. For example, a heat pump moves heat between indoor and outdoor environments (the ground or air). The operation requires a significant temperature difference between outdoor and indoor environments. Thus, many heat pumps lose efficiency when outdoor temperatures drop too low.
Due to the above reasons, many prefer other HVAC forms for areas that experience extreme winters. However, some heat pumps can operate in relatively cold temperatures. For example, some cold climate temperatures use refrigerants with low boiling points that can transfer heat even in extremely low temperatures.
2. Weather and Climate Determine Damage Risks
Many HVAC systems work well in different weather. However, the weather does pose some risks to your HVAC's outdoor units. For example:
Take relevant measures to protect your HVAC system from weather elements common to your area. For example, the outdoor unit should sit on top of a platform above the annual flood level to reduce the risk of flood damage.
3. Weather and Climate Determine Wear Rates
Lastly, the local climate and weather determine how often and for how you need to run the HVAC. For example, people in areas with extreme climates usually run their HVAC systems more often and for longer than those in mild climates run their systems.
HVACs are electromechanical systems that suffer wear and tear each time they run. The vibrations, temperature fluctuations, and friction on moving materials (such as motors) contribute to wear and tear. Thus, frequent and long HVAC cycles increase the risk of breakdowns and shorten the system's lifespan.
A good solution to minimize wear and tear is using the HVAC only when necessary. For example, turn off the HVAC or lower the temperature when away from home. You should also ease the HVAC's load, for example, by minimizing heat losses or gains, depending on the season.
HVAC contractors — such as Trane South — understand the connection between weather and climate and HVAC systems. Your contractor will consider such factors when installing and maintaining your system.
Share27 October 2022
Working with HVAC contractors is an important part of being a homeowner. Not only do your contractors ensure that a new system you buy is properly installed, but they also ensure optimal performance throughout the years through a series of regular inspections, maintenance services, and repairs. But there are lots of things you can do in between your contractor's visits to ensure that your HVAC investment is always in tip top condition, aside from cleaning out the air filters. After working with my dad for more than a decade in the HVAC business, I've put together a few methods homeowners can use to maintain a well working system, and I have published those tips and tricks right here on this blog. I hope some of the information you find here helps you on your journey as a homeowner!
