Colorado’s climate presents unique challenges for homeowners when it comes to heating and cooling. The region experiences extreme temperature swings, from freezing winters to scorching summers, making HVAC systems work overtime. Without proper maintenance, these systems can develop efficiency problems, leading to costly repairs or replacements.
Below, we explore the most common HVAC problems in Colorado, their causes, and practical solutions to help you prevent unexpected breakdowns.
During Colorado’s harsh winters, furnaces run for extended periods, leading to potential breakdowns. Common causes include:
Clogged air filters
restricting airflow and causing the furnace to overheat.
Poor insulation
making the heating system work harder than necessary.
Thermostat malfunctions
causing the furnace to cycle too frequently.
Aging or undersized furnaces
struggling to meet the home's heating demands.
✅ Change your air filters
every 1–3 months to maintain good airflow.
✅ Schedule a professional furnace inspection
each fall to detect issues early.
✅ Ensure proper home insulation
by sealing gaps around windows and doors.
✅ Upgrade to an energy-efficient furnace
if your system is more than 15 years old.
Colorado summers can bring triple-digit temperatures, pushing AC units to their limits. Common issues include:
Refrigerant leaks
which reduce cooling efficiency.
Dirty condenser coils
making the system work harder to cool the home.
Blocked airflow
due to clogged filters or closed vents.
Overloaded circuits
causing the AC to trip breakers.
✅ Check refrigerant levels
at the start of summer.
✅ Clean or replace air filters
every month during peak usage.
✅ Keep condenser coils clean
by removing dirt, leaves, and debris from the outdoor unit.
✅ Use ceiling fans
to distribute cool air efficiently and reduce strain on the AC.
✅ Consider a high-efficiency AC unit
if your system is over 10 years old.
Do certain rooms in your home feel significantly colder or warmer than others? Uneven heating and cooling can be caused by:
Blocked or closed vents
restricting airflow.
Leaky or poorly designed ductwork
causing air loss.
Aging or improperly calibrated thermostat
failing to regulate temperatures accurately.
✅ Ensure all vents remain open and unobstructed by furniture or curtains.
✅ Schedule a ductwork inspection to check for leaks or inefficient design.
✅ Invest in a smart thermostat with zoned heating and cooling capabilities.
✅ Use blackout curtains in summer and thermal curtains in winter to stabilize indoor temperatures.
If your energy bills are unusually high, your HVAC system may be running inefficiently due to:
An aging system consuming more power.
Poor insulation making it harder to maintain indoor temperatures.
Dirty filters restricting airflow and making the system work harder.
✅ Upgrade to an energy-efficient HVAC system, such as a high-SEER-rated AC or heat pump.
✅ Improve home insulation by sealing gaps and adding attic insulation.
✅ Use a programmable or smart thermostat to optimize energy use.
✅ Check for energy rebates in Colorado for efficiency upgrades.
Colorado’s dry climate, combined with dust, pet dander, and pollen, can lead to poor indoor air quality. This may cause:
Allergy and asthma flare-ups due to airborne pollutants.
Dry air leading to respiratory discomfort and static electricity.
Dust buildup in vents and filters, spreading contaminants.
✅ Upgrade to high-efficiency air filters with a MERV rating of 8+.
✅ Install a whole-home humidifier to maintain optimal humidity levels (30-50%).
✅ Schedule duct cleaning every few years to remove dust buildup.
✅ Consider an air purifier for enhanced filtration of allergens and pollutants.
If your system turns on and off too frequently, it could be due to:
A clogged filter, restricting airflow and causing overheating.
A faulty thermostat, misreading temperature and triggering unnecessary cycles.
An oversized HVAC unit, cooling too quickly but failing to remove humidity properly.
✅ Replace filters regularly to ensure smooth airflow.
✅ Calibrate or replace the thermostat if it’s not functioning correctly.
✅ Have an HVAC professional assess your system size to ensure it's properly matched to your home.
Gas furnaces, when not maintained properly, can develop cracks in the heat exchanger, leading to carbon monoxide (CO) leaks—a serious health hazard:
✅ Schedule annual furnace inspections to check for heat exchanger cracks.
✅ Install carbon monoxide detectors in key areas of your home.
✅ Never block air supply vents—this can cause incomplete combustion.
✅ Replace old furnaces that show signs of deterioration.
Consider a Heat Pump: These systems provide both heating and cooling efficiently, especially in areas with moderate winters.
Use a Smart Thermostat: It adapts to your schedule, reducing energy waste and improving comfort.
Upgrade Your Windows: Double-pane windows reduce heat loss in winter and keep the home cooler in summer.
Schedule Bi-Annual Maintenance: Professional inspections in spring and fall prevent seasonal HVAC failures.
Colorado homeowners face unique HVAC challenges, but with proper maintenance, insulation, and modern technology, you can avoid costly repairs and maximize energy efficiency.
At Royal Comfort Heating & Air Conditioning Inc, we provide expert HVAC maintenance, repairs, and energy-efficient upgrades to ensure your home stays comfortable year-round. Contact us today for a free HVAC system evaluation.
