Ice storms leave more behind than slick roads and fallen branches. Once the weather finally moves out of West Tennessee and North Mississippi, many homeowners in Counce, Pickwick, Savannah, Hardin County, Corinth, MS, and surrounding areas start discovering problems that didn’t show up during the storm itself.
Even if your heating system kept running through the ice, the aftermath is when hidden issues often appear. Here’s what to check first once conditions are safe — and what shouldn’t be ignored.
1. Inspect Outdoor HVAC Equipment for Ice Damage
Heat pumps and outdoor units take the brunt of winter storms. After an ice event, look for:
Ice buildup still clinging to the unit
Bent fins or panels from falling ice or branches
Debris blocking airflow around the system
Never try to chip ice off your unit. That can damage coils and fins. If ice hasn’t melted naturally after temperatures rise, it’s time to call a professional.
2. Listen for Unusual Noises Once Power Is Restored
Power outages and fluctuations during ice storms can put extra strain on HVAC components. When your system comes back on, listen for:
Grinding or rattling sounds
Loud humming or buzzing
Short cycling (turning on and off frequently)
These noises often point to electrical or mechanical stress caused during outages.
3. Check Indoor Comfort Room by Room
Ice storms often expose airflow problems that were already developing.
Pay attention to:
Cold spots or rooms that won’t warm up
Weak airflow from vents
Longer run times than usual
If your system is running but comfort feels uneven, ice-related strain or airflow restrictions may be to blame.
4. Watch for Spikes in Energy Bills
After severe winter weather, many homeowners across Hardin County and North Mississippi notice higher energy usage — even when temperatures stabilize.
This can happen when:
Ice interferes with heat pump efficiency
Defrost cycles run more often than normal
Components were damaged during the storm
Higher bills after an ice storm are a strong sign your system isn’t operating efficiently.
5. Don’t Ignore Frozen or Thawing Areas of the Home
While not strictly HVAC-related, frozen pipes and cold interior walls often go hand-in-hand with heating system strain.
If you experienced:
Frozen pipes
Extremely cold rooms
Drafts after the storm
your heating system may have been pushed beyond normal limits — and should be inspected.
Why Ice Storm Damage Often Shows Up Later
Many storm-related HVAC issues don’t appear immediately. Ice, power interruptions, and prolonged runtimes can weaken components that fail days — or even weeks — later.
That’s why post-storm inspections are so important, especially before the next cold snap hits.
When to Call for Professional Help
If you notice:
Ice that won’t melt from your outdoor unit
Unusual noises
Uneven heating
Rising energy costs
it’s best to have your system checked sooner rather than later.
Trusted Local Help After the Storm
At Harbin Heating & Air Conditioning, we help homeowners recover after severe winter weather with honest inspections and dependable service.
📞 Call 731-689-3651 to schedule a post–ice storm HVAC check
📍 Serving Counce, Pickwick, Savannah, Hardin County, Corinth, MS, and all of North Mississippi
We’re here to help your home get back to normal — safely, efficiently, and with confidence — after the storm moves on.
