As Michiganders, we’re no strangers to cold weather. We deal with it, live with it, and even find ways to have fun in it. But your furnace doesn’t always feel the same way. It’s much more work for your furnace to keep your house warm during this time of year, especially when temperatures dip below 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
Yes, it creates unique challenges for your furnace and puts extra stress on all its components. Continuously running to keep your home warm might push a furnace to the edge of failing to the limit.
Enjoy your Michigan weather, but don’t fall victim to the cold when it comes to your furnace. Read through this article to learn how to prevent the need for furnace repairs during extreme cold, what to do if you experience a breakdown, and how to make informed decisions about maintaining or replacing your system.
Why Does the Cold Stress Your Furnace?
Extreme cold temperatures significantly impact your furnace’s performance, often exposing or worsening existing issues. Here are some common challenges:
Pilot Light Problems
Cold weather can cause pilot lights to flicker or go out entirely, disrupting your furnace’s ability to heat effectively. Drafts or issues with gas flow can cause this, both of which can be exacerbated by extreme cold.
Ignition System Failures
Modern furnaces rely on electronic ignition systems, which can fail under stress from continuous operation. Problems with the ignition system can leave your home without heat when needed.
Frozen Heat Exchangers
In extremely cold weather, heat exchangers can freeze, especially if airflow is restricted. A frozen heat exchanger can shut down the system and may require professional repairs to restore functionality.
Clogged Air Filters
The harder your furnace works, the more air it processes, which means filters can clog quickly. Restricted airflow from a clogged filter decreases efficiency and can lead to overheating and damage to internal components.
Thermostat Malfunctions
Think of the thermostat as the brains of your HVAC system. If it’s not functioning properly, it can send incorrect signals to the furnace, causing it to work harder than necessary or not hard enough. This can lead to inconsistent heating and additional strain on the system during extreme cold.
Ready to schedule your furnace inspection? We’ve made it easy for you: Book Your HVAC Service Online through our user-friendly system, or give us a call at 248-953-1385. Our team is ready to assist you with all your heating and cooling needs.
How Extreme Cold Can Lead to Furnace Repairs
When your furnace works overtime to keep your home warm, it places additional strain on its parts. Components like blower motors, heat exchangers, and ignition systems are more likely to fail under these conditions. Common repairs during cold snaps include:
- Replacing a failing blower motor.
- Fixing igniter or pilot light problems.
- Addressing cracks in the heat exchanger, which can pose safety risks.
The average cost of a furnace repair can vary widely. On the low end, minor repairs might cost $150. More common repairs average around $500, while major issues could cost $1,800 to $2,000. Understanding these costs can help you prepare and decide whether to repair or replace your system.
Six Tips to Keep Your Furnace Running Smoothly
To reduce the risk of furnace repairs during extreme cold, follow these practical tips:
- Change Your Filter Regularly: A clean filter allows proper airflow and reduces strain on your furnace. Check it monthly and replace it every one to three months.
- Seal Drafts and Insulate Windows: Keep the warm air in and the cold air out by sealing gaps around doors, windows, and walls. Close curtains to add another layer of insulation and ease the furnace’s workload.
- Keep Vents Clear: After snowstorms or icy weather, ensure your furnace’s intake and exhaust vents are free of obstructions to maintain safe operation.
- Use Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans can help circulate warm air throughout your home. Set them to rotate clockwise on a low setting during winter to push warm air down from the ceiling.
- Maintain a Steady Thermostat Setting: Lowering your thermostat during the day might save energy in mild weather, but it’s better to maintain a consistent temperature during extreme cold. This prevents your furnace from overworking to bring your home back up to the desired temperature. Aim for around 70 degrees on particularly frigid days.
- Schedule Regular Furnace Tune-Ups: Treat your furnace like an athlete. A well-maintained system is like a well-trained competitor, ready to handle the demands of extreme cold. Regular tune-ups can catch small issues before they turn into costly repairs.
Repair vs. Replacement: When to Make the Call
If your furnace breaks down during extreme cold, deciding whether to repair or replace it can depend on several factors. Age is a critical consideration—furnaces typically last 15 to 20 years. If your system is older and facing significant repairs, replacement might be more cost-effective.
However, if the furnace is relatively new and the repair involves a single component, like the blower motor or igniter, repairing it is often the better choice. A professional inspection can help you weigh the costs and benefits of each option.
Wondering if it’s time for a furnace replacement? Learn more about your options and how to choose the best system for your home.
Final Thoughts
Extreme cold weather is tough on your furnace, but staying informed and proactive can make all the difference. Addressing potential issues before they become major problems ensures your home stays warm and safe during the coldest months.
If you have questions or need expert advice about your furnace, we’re here to help. Our goal is to provide the information you need to make the best decisions for your home and family.
