When a winter cold snap rolls through West Tennessee and North Mississippi, your HVAC system works overtime. Once temperatures rise, many homeowners assume everything is fine — but extreme cold can leave behind hidden stress.
If you live in Counce, Pickwick, Savannah, Hardin County, Corinth, MS, or surrounding areas, here’s what you should check after freezing weather moves out.
1️⃣ Check the Outdoor Unit
During freezing conditions, heat pumps can develop frost buildup. While defrost cycles are normal, prolonged freezing temperatures may cause:
Ice accumulation
Restricted airflow
Fan strain
Coil stress
Once temperatures rise, inspect the unit for:
✔ Debris buildup
✔ Bent fins
✔ Lingering ice
✔ Unusual noises when running
If anything looks off, it’s worth scheduling a professional inspection.
2️⃣ Listen for New Sounds
After heavy system usage, some components may show signs of wear.
Pay attention to:
Grinding or buzzing sounds
Clicking during startup
Louder-than-normal operation
Electrical components and motors can be stressed during extended cold weather runs.
3️⃣ Monitor Auxiliary Heat Usage
During extreme cold, your system may rely on auxiliary heat. Once temperatures moderate, AUX heat should run less frequently.
If it continues running often, it may signal:
Reduced heat pump efficiency
Airflow restrictions
Sensor or thermostat issues
This can lead to higher energy bills if left unaddressed.
4️⃣ Check Airflow Inside the Home
Cold snaps can reveal duct weaknesses.
Look for:
Rooms that feel colder than others
Reduced airflow at vents
Longer run times
Temperature swings common in Hardin County and Corinth, MS can cause duct expansion and contraction, worsening small leaks.
5️⃣ Replace or Inspect Your Air Filter
Your HVAC system likely ran longer during freezing temperatures. A clogged filter can:
Reduce airflow
Increase system strain
Raise energy costs
A quick filter change can immediately improve performance.
6️⃣ Watch Your Energy Bill
If your next utility bill jumps significantly — even after temperatures rise — your system may still be compensating for an underlying issue.
This is common after heavy winter usage across West Tennessee.
Why Post-Storm Inspections Matter
Cold snaps put extra demand on:
Heat pumps
Electrical components
Motors
Duct systems
Thermostats
Catching minor wear early can prevent a mid-winter breakdown during the next temperature drop.
When to Call Harbin Heating & Air Conditioning
If you notice unusual operation, uneven comfort, or higher bills after a cold snap, it’s better to inspect now than wait.
📞 Call Harbin Heating & Air Conditioning — 731-689-3651
📍 Serving Counce, Pickwick, Savannah, Hardin County, Corinth, MS, and all of North Mississippi
Winter weather is tough on HVAC systems — but a quick checkup can keep small problems from turning into expensive repairs.
The cold snap may be over.
Make sure your HVAC system recovered with it.
