The Impact of the Pacific Northwest’s Climate on Your HVAC System
In addition to its gorgeous and varied environment, the Pacific Northwest is famous for its unusual weather patterns. The region’s environment, from its maritime exposure to its high rains, greatly influences the performance and lifespan of HVAC systems. If you want your HVAC system to perform optimally year-round, you must understand how these factors affect it.
Heavy Rainfall
Heavy rains are a defining feature of the Pacific Northwest climate. This rainfall ensures that the landscape remains lush and green, but it also raises moisture levels. When left unaddressed, the moisture from the rain will rust and corrode different parts of the heating and cooling equipment. The condenser coils and blower motor are two parts that are especially vulnerable to moisture problems. The ductwork is also susceptible. Changing the air filter is a great way to ensure optimal airflow and decrease moisture issues. Rust inspections and sealing exposed components can also combat damage from extended exposure to rain.
High Humidity
High humidity is quite common in this region, meaning rain isn’t the only weather element that causes moisture problems. The highest humidity levels are typically found in coastal areas. HVAC equipment needs to work harder when excess moisture accumulates inside it. This humidity leads to quicker wear of mechanical parts and impairs the system’s ability to maintain comfortable temperatures. Moisture problems can also result in mold growth, which further burdens the HVAC system. The indoor air quality of the home will suffer when mold develops inside ducts and air handlers. You may need to attach a dehumidifier to your HVAC system to maintain proper humidity levels.
Cold Winters
During the winter months, you can expect to endure cold and damp weather conditions. These weather elements usually become more pronounced in interior regions and mountainous areas. Furnaces and heat pumps experience considerable stress when operating in these cold temperatures. Without proper maintenance, the heating systems will overheat or break down from the extra stress. Weatherproofing and heating system checks can improve system performance throughout harsh winters and lengthen equipment lifespans.
Mild Summers
The Pacific Northwest experiences mild summers compared to other regions yet still has warm periods that necessitate cooling solutions. Air conditioning units experience increased stress during the occasional temperature spikes, especially when they remain unused throughout the cooler months. Many homeowners in this region face challenges when it comes to maintaining cool indoor temperatures because their homes lack central air conditioning systems. Homeowners need to service air conditioning units before summer begins to prevent performance issues.
Frequent Temperature Changes
Temperatures here can drop into the low 40s for a brief period before climbing up to the mid-60s just a few hours later. HVAC systems experience accelerated wear and tear because rapid temperature changes force them to cycle more often. Constant cycling between active and standby modes leads to higher energy usage and decreased system efficiency. Homeowners must maintain their systems in optimal condition through regular calibration to reduce the impact of swift temperature shifts.
Coastal Saltwater Exposure
Outdoor units and exposed metal parts of HVAC systems experience rapid corrosion when exposed to salty air. The corrosive damage results in expensive repair work and reduces the HVAC system’s operational lifespan. Maintaining HVAC components through routine cleaning and maintenance, which includes removing saltwater deposits, will prevent damage problems. It will also prolong the equipment’s operational lifespan. Many residents living near the sea use protective covers or purchase HVAC components that resist corrosion to better endure coastal weather conditions.
Strong Winds
The Pacific Northwest usually has strong winds most frequently during its winter and spring seasons. HVAC units experience airflow blockage and system strain when strong winds drive debris accumulation around them. The outdoor HVAC unit and its filters become easily blocked by leaves and branches, which leads to reduced system efficiency and possible damage. It is crucial to remove debris from the outdoor HVAC units and trim surrounding vegetation to maintain proper airflow. Securing outdoor units during windy periods can also help prevent damage to them.
Foggy Conditions
The Pacific Northwest sometimes has foggy conditions during the colder parts of the year. HVAC components face the risk of water damage and rust when high fog levels generate internal condensation buildup. Moisture from the fog will damage the internal wiring and electrical components, which increases the likelihood of system malfunctions. Homeowners can protect their systems from fog damage by maintaining proper drainage and conducting regular checks for moisture buildup.
Snow and Ice
This part of the country experiences regular snow and ice during winter months. It predominantly affects higher elevations and inland regions. When outdoor HVAC units collect snow and ice, it blocks airflow and leads to damage. Snow buildup can even freeze the outdoor unit, rendering it useless until it is repaired. To protect the HVAC unit, homeowners can remove nearby snow and ice. It also helps to use protective covers and heat tape. If you decide to use heat tape, it’s best to place it along the outdoor unit’s pipes and drain lines.
Thick Forest Coverage
The dense forests and abundant greenery in the Pacific Northwest create debris around HVAC systems. Pine needles, leaves and branches can obstruct outdoor units by clogging them, reducing airflow and lowering efficiency. The system may even experience overheating or mechanical failure under these conditions. To reduce the negative effects of thick forest coverage, homeowners should provide a 2-foot clearance around the whole outdoor unit. This might require pruning overgrown shrubs or trimming tree branches.
Prolonged Cloudiness
Prolonged periods of cloudiness are normal for this region. During the colder months, the limited sunlight can put additional pressure on heating systems. As these systems stay on longer to provide warm, comfortable temperatures, they experience extra wear and tear. Homeowners might notice more frequent repairs and higher energy bills as a result. To keep a heating system operating efficiently, it helps to seal air leaks around windows and doors.
Changing Air Pressure
The coastal regions of the Pacific Northwest undergo continuous air pressure changes. Air pressure fluctuations cause HVAC systems to lose their ability to control airflow, which results in increased energy waste. Homeowners need to schedule regular HVAC maintenance to detect any irregular pressure problems. Regular calibration and tune-ups enable smooth operation regardless of changes in air pressure.
Frequent Flooding
HVAC systems face severe water damage risks when floodwaters increase, particularly those located in basements or crawl spaces. The presence of water causes corrosion and mold development while triggering electrical failures. Together, these issues degrade HVAC system performance and make the equipment wear out faster. Homeowners in flood-prone areas should install sump pumps and elevate HVAC systems above flood levels to prevent potential water damage.
Brennan Heating & Air Conditioning is an industry leader in helping homeowners extend the lifespan of their HVAC equipment. We even offer repairs, installations and maintenance for boilers and ductless systems to improve your home’s comfort and energy efficiency. Ask about our Maintenance Plan to keep up with HVAC tune-ups and get discounts on services.
Call Brennan Heating & Air Conditioning today to schedule HVAC maintenance for your home in Lynnwood, WA.
