Top HVAC Problems Homeowners Face During Winter Months
When temperatures drop in Wisconsin, your home’s HVAC system becomes a lifeline. But cold weather can put extra strain on your heating equipment, exposing weaknesses that went unnoticed during milder seasons. Whether it’s a furnace that won’t start, uneven heating, or mysterious noises, winter HVAC issues can quickly disrupt comfort and safety. At Donovan & Jorgenson Heating and Cooling, we’ve seen it all during our decades of service across Mukwonago, New Berlin, and West Allis, WI. Understanding the most common HVAC problems during winter and how to prevent them can help you stay warm, safe, and stress-free all season long.
Malfunctioning Thermostat
If your home doesn’t feel as warm as it should, the thermostat may be to blame rather than the furnace itself. A malfunctioning thermostat can misread indoor temperatures, send faulty signals to the furnace, or fail to communicate entirely. Sometimes, the problem is simple—dead batteries, incorrect settings, or dust buildup inside the device. However, more complex issues like wiring faults or sensor malfunctions require professional attention. At Donovan & Jorgenson Heating and Cooling, we recommend checking your thermostat first before assuming your furnace has failed.
Frozen Pipes
Your HVAC system often depends on water lines, especially if you have a boiler or hydronic heating system. When pipes freeze, pressure builds up and can cause them to burst, leading to costly water damage and system downtime. Preventing frozen pipes starts with insulation and steady indoor heat. Keep your home at a consistent temperature, even when you’re away, and open cabinet doors where pipes run along exterior walls to promote airflow. If you notice weak heat output or no heat from your boiler, frozen pipes could be the culprit. In that case, shut off the system and get professional assistance immediately, as thawing and repairing pipes should always be handled safely by professionals.
Damaged Heat Pumps or Furnaces
Cold weather puts extra stress on your furnace or heat pump. Components like blower motors, belts, igniters, and heat exchangers are all working overtime during the winter months. Over time, this can lead to breakdowns, especially if the system hasn’t been serviced recently. For heat pumps, ice buildup on the outdoor unit can prevent proper airflow and cause it to freeze up. Modern units are designed with a defrost mode, but if yours remains iced over, it’s a clear sign something’s wrong. Similarly, gas furnaces can develop ignition problems or pilot light failures due to dirty burners or faulty thermocouples. Routine maintenance helps prevent these failures by catching minor issues before they escalate.
Reduced Airflow Due to Clogged Filters
One of the simplest yet most common winter HVAC issues is reduced airflow caused by a clogged air filter. During colder months, your system runs longer and circulates more air, which means the filter traps more dust, pet dander, and debris. A dirty filter forces your furnace to work harder, leading to uneven heating, reduced efficiency, and potential overheating. We recommend checking your filter every month and replacing it at least once every three months or more often if you have pets or allergies. A clean filter is an easy way to save money on energy bills and extend your system’s lifespan.
Carbon Monoxide Leaks
Perhaps the most serious winter HVAC concern is the risk of carbon monoxide (CO) leaks. Furnaces that burn natural gas or propane produce CO as a byproduct of combustion. When operating properly, this gas is safely vented outdoors, but if the heat exchanger cracks or the exhaust vent becomes blocked, carbon monoxide can leak into your living space. CO is odorless and colorless, making it nearly impossible to detect without a proper alarm. Exposure can cause dizziness, headaches, nausea, and even death. Donovan & Jorgenson Heating and Cooling strongly recommends installing carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas and on every level of your home. Regular professional inspections can identify venting issues, cracked exchangers, and other CO hazards before they pose a risk to your family’s safety.
Why Trust Us With Your Winter HVAC Problems?
Since 1985, Donovan & Jorgenson Heating and Cooling has been Wisconsin’s trusted name in comfort and safety. Our NATE-certified technicians specialize in diagnosing and resolving winter HVAC problems quickly and professionally. We take pride in transparent communication, upfront pricing, and workmanship that stands the test of time. From replacing worn furnace parts to thawing frozen pipes and detecting CO risks, we bring decades of local experience to every service call. We’re also committed to preventive maintenance and helping you avoid costly repairs by keeping your system efficient and reliable year-round.
Get Help With Your HVAC Problems in Winter
Don’t let HVAC winter problems leave you out in the cold. From thermostat glitches to frozen pipes, the experts at Donovan & Jorgenson Heating and Cooling can diagnose issues fast and restore your home’s comfort. Contact us today to schedule a seasonal maintenance visit or repair appointment in Mukwonago, New Berlin, or West Allis, WI. Stay warm, stay safe, and trust Wisconsin’s leading HVAC team to keep your home comfortable.
