Winter weather can do a lot of damage to our homes — ice dams on the gutters, siding damage, you name it. But the effects of low temperatures aren’t limited to the outside—there are several issues that can arise indoors as well.
If you’re curious about how cold temperatures can impact more than just your comfort, here’s a look at five types of damage that can occur inside your home when the temperature drops.
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are among the most common issues caused by extremely cold indoor temperatures. When pipes freeze and burst, it can lead to serious and costly repairs.
Maintaining a consistent temperature with a reliable heating system helps prevent this from happening. By keeping their homes warm, homeowners can avoid frozen pipes and the potential water damage that comes with it. Proper insulation and air sealing can also improve energy efficiency, which can be a saving grace when outdoor temperatures plummet.
Dying House Plants
Dead house plants can be another consequence of lower temperatures in a cold home. Many houseplants thrive in warmer environments, and prolonged exposure to cold air can cause them to wilt or die.
Additionally, high humidity caused by warm air mixing with cold air can harm plants and other parts of your home by promoting mold and mildew growth. Keeping the heating system on a steady setting can regulate indoor air quality and help your plants survive during the winter.
Cracking Caulk
Cracks in caulking can be caused by rapid temperature drops. Cold homes experience fluctuations that cause caulk around windows, doors, and joints to shrink and crack. This also allows moisture to seep into cracks, which compounds the problem and causes further damage.
As such, keeping your home warm by avoiding air leaks and using more energy to combat colder outdoor temperatures can prevent this issue. The investment in a well-sealed home reduces heating bills while extending the lifespan of caulking and insulation.
Sump Pump Freezing
A frozen sump pump is a hidden danger when lower temperatures inside a cold home freeze the water. If the sump pump is unable to properly discharge water, it may cause flooding. Maintaining a higher indoor air temperature can keep water flowing properly and help prevent major issues in your basement.
HVAC System Damage
HVAC system problems are another concern when a home is too cold. If a heating system is forced to work overtime due to leaks or inefficient insulation, it will consume more energy and could suffer increased wear and tear from overuse.
Additionally, fluctuating temperatures between cold air and warm air can cause strain on the system, leading to costly repairs or replacements. Therefore, properly insulating your space and maintaining warm indoor temperatures are both key strategies for reducing heating bills and protecting your HVAC system during the winter months of the year.
To Schedule Heating Services for Your Home, Give Us a Call Today!
When Comfort First Heating & Cooling is around, you don’t have to suffer with a cold home. We offer professional services for boilers, furnaces, and radiant heating systems so your house stays warm and cozy no matter how cold it is outside. Reach out today to learn more and to schedule a heating service for your home!