November 15, 2018

4 Helpful Tips to Prepare Your Home for Freezing Temperatures

With winter right around the corner, now is the time to think about protecting your home from the freezing temperatures this time of year brings. The good news is, there are steps you can take now to help reduce the likelihood that you will experience any significant issues.

Here, you can learn four tips that will help you get your home ready for the upcoming freezing temperatures.

You know that water expands when it freezes. As a result, it only makes sense that when the water inside of your pipes freezes, so do your pipes. When this happens, significant damage can occur to your pipes, in some cases resulting in them bursting or cracking.

If you want to avoid this issue, drain all the water from your home’s outdoor faucets and your sprinkler systems to keep the pipes from freezing. Also, be sure to disconnect all your hoses. Once you have done this, cover up your outdoor faucets with some type of foam insulation. If there are other pipes that run through other unheated portions of your home – such as the basement or garage – be sure you use insulation to protect these, too.

The time to call for annual maintenance is before freezing temperatures strike. There is nothing quite as bad as turning the heat on when needed only to discover it doesn’t work properly.

Maintenance appointments with a professional technician are beneficial because they will have the knowledge and experience to clean all the system’s components, check the filter and ensure there are no small issues that need to be fixed. If there are any troublesome parts, the technicians will let you know and ensure you are ready for colder temperatures.

Not only do programmable thermostats program the temperature in your home so it’s precisely how you want it, but they can help you save money, too. Programming the thermostat to remain cool at night, or when you aren’t at home, can help to significantly reduce your utility costs – also, you can program the same unit to be warmer when you are going to be home or in the morning.

You know that clogged gutters can cause issues, but do you know how bad they can get? Not only is this a messy problem, but as the icy season arrives, it is crucial to make sure your gutters are clear. An ice dam may form when heat escapes through your roof and melts the ice on top of your roof. To ensure your gutters flow freely, you need to ensure there are no debris. This will prevent ice dams from forming.

As you can see, there are several things you can do now to help prepare your home for the cooler months of the year. If you need help with your heating system, be sure to call the pros. They can help ensure your unit is working properly and efficiently.

A clean white air filter next to a dirty brown air filter.
By Greg Schomburg July 15, 2026
Compare HEPA vs. MERV filters for your home. Learn how often to change your air filter in Parkville and St. Joseph, MO, to avoid system damage and high bills
By Greg Schomburg June 3, 2026
The best time to schedule air conditioner installation is during the shoulder seasons—early spring (March to April) and fall (September to October). These months offer milder temperatures, faster scheduling availability, and potential off-season savings. Waiting until July or August often leads to wait times longer, emergency replacement costs, and uncomfortable indoor temperatures during Missouri’s hottest months. Why Timing Matters for AC Installation in Missouri? Missouri summers regularly bring temperatures above 90°F with high humidity levels. During peak summer months, HVAC companies receive a surge of emergency service calls from homeowners dealing with failing cooling systems. Scheduling an installation before the seasonal rush gives homeowners better flexibility, improved pricing opportunities, and peace of mind. Homeowners searching for the best time to replace an AC unit in Missouri often discover that proactive planning prevents the stress of unexpected breakdowns. A planned replacement also allows more time to compare energy-efficient systems and financing options. What Happens During the Summer Rush? July and August are typically the busiest months for HVAC contractors in Missouri. During this period: Appointment availability becomes limited Emergency replacements increase costs Installation timelines may extend several days. Homeowners often endure hot indoor conditions while waiting Popular AC models may temporarily sell out A failing air conditioner during a Missouri heatwave creates urgency, which limits decision-making time. Planning ahead avoids rushed purchases and uncomfortable living conditions. Spring Is the Ideal Time for AC Installation Early spring offers one of the most practical opportunities for air conditioner installation in St. Joseph, MO, because temperatures remain moderate before extreme heat arrives. Benefits of Spring Installation
By Greg Schomburg March 31, 2026
As spring arrives in Platte City, Missouri, the weather can be unpredictable—one day chilly, the next warm and sunny. While this transition may seem like a time to put your HVAC system on the back burner, it's actually one of the most important seasons to give your system some attention. At Schomburg Heating & Cooling Inc., we’ve been serving our community for over 30 years, and we know exactly how crucial it is to take care of both your heating and cooling systems during this time of year. Spring is the perfect time to make sure your HVAC system is ready for the changing temperatures. Whether you're looking to keep your home warm during a cold spell or cool off when the heat picks up, your HVAC system is essential for year-round comfort. Here’s why now is the best time to schedule HVAC services in Platte City. Why Spring is the Ideal Time for HVAC Maintenance 1. Transition from Heating to Cooling As we bid farewell to winter, the weather can fluctuate between chilly mornings and warmer afternoons. This changeover means your heating system will still be in use early in the spring, but your air conditioning will soon become necessary. It's important to ensure both systems are functioning smoothly. You don’t want to be caught off guard by a furnace breakdown on a cold morning or an air conditioner failure as temperatures rise. 2. Preventative Maintenance is Key Many HVAC issues go unnoticed during the off-season, but spring is the perfect time to give your system a thorough inspection. A professional tune-up ensures that your air conditioner is running efficiently and can handle the heat of summer. It also gives our technicians a chance to catch small issues before they become big problems. Whether it’s checking the refrigerant levels, cleaning the coils, or replacing filters, a little maintenance now can prevent major repairs later. 3. Avoid the Summer Rush Summer is always a busy time for HVAC companies. If you wait until the heat is in full swing, you might find yourself waiting for days for a technician to arrive. By scheduling your HVAC maintenance or repair in spring, you’ll beat the rush and ensure your system is in top condition when you need it most. Current HVAC Needs in Platte City, MO In Platte City, we’re no strangers to unpredictable weather patterns. Early spring may still require heating, but soon enough, temperatures will rise, and your air conditioner will be your best friend. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common HVAC services we see during this transitional season: Heating Services Heating Repair: Even as we move into spring, cold weather can still sneak up on us. If your furnace has been running less efficiently or has shown signs of wear, now is the time to address it. A heating repair service ensures your furnace is working as efficiently as possible before the season changes. Furnace Replacement: If your furnace is old or inefficient, spring is the ideal time for a replacement. Waiting until winter comes around again could leave you in the cold if your furnace breaks down unexpectedly. Cooling Services Air Conditioning Repair Service: After a long winter, the first time you turn on your air conditioner might reveal problems like weak airflow, strange sounds, or poor cooling. Scheduling an AC repair in spring ensures your system is ready to take on summer’s heat. Air Conditioner Installation & Repair: If your air conditioner struggled last summer or is getting up in age, spring is the best time to either repair or replace it. A new system will keep your home cooler and more energy-efficient when the temperatures soar. AC Repair: If you’ve noticed any issues with your AC already, don’t wait for the heat to increase. Early spring is the best time to fix your system before it’s working at full capacity. How Schomburg Heating & Cooling Can Help At Schomburg Heating & Cooling Inc., we’ve been providing quality HVAC services to Platte City and the surrounding areas since 1991. Our team of expert technicians is here to ensure your home stays comfortable no matter the season. From heating repairs to AC installations, we offer a full range of services to meet your needs. HVAC Repairs: Whether it’s your furnace or air conditioner, we’re here to fix it fast and efficiently. Seasonal Maintenance: Prevent future issues with a thorough inspection of your heating and cooling systems. Air Conditioning Services: Stay cool this summer with expert installation and repair services for your AC system. Heating Services: Ensure your home stays warm when temperatures drop with our furnace repair and replacement services. What You Need to Know About HVAC Services This Season Spring is the perfect time to get your HVAC system in check. The temperature swings during this season can put stress on your system, making it a prime time for malfunctions. At Schomburg Heating & Cooling, we recommend getting your system tuned up before both the heating and cooling seasons hit their peaks. This ensures your equipment runs as efficiently as possible and helps you avoid unexpected breakdowns. Remember, regular HVAC maintenance not only helps avoid breakdowns but also keeps your system running efficiently, saving you money on energy bills. It also extends the life of your system, so you can get the most out of your investment. Frequently Asked Questions 1. When should I schedule HVAC maintenance in Platte City? Spring—ideally in March or April—is the best time to service your air conditioner before summer demand increases. It ensures your system runs efficiently and helps prevent unexpected breakdowns when you need your AC most. 2. How do I know if my AC needs repair or full replacement? If your air conditioner is over 10 years old, has frequent breakdowns, or no longer keeps your home cool efficiently, it may be time for a replacement. Frequent repairs or rising energy bills are also signs that it’s time to upgrade to a more energy-efficient model. 3. Why does my AC blow warm air even though it’s turned on? This could be due to low refrigerant, a clogged filter, a malfunctioning thermostat, or a broken compressor. If you’re noticing this issue, it’s best to have a professional inspect and repair your system to prevent further damage. 4. Can I run my air conditioner right after winter without servicing it? While it’s possible, it’s not recommended. Dust and debris can accumulate in your system over the winter months, and the first time you run it may reveal issues that could have been caught earlier with a tune-up. 5. What are common signs my furnace needs service? If your furnace is producing strange noises, not heating properly, or causing higher energy bills, it’s time for a professional inspection. A spring tune-up can help catch any issues before the next cold snap. 6. How can I improve my indoor air quality at home? To improve indoor air quality, change your filters regularly, consider adding air purification systems, and have your HVAC system professionally cleaned during maintenance visits. These steps will help ensure you’re breathing cleaner air year-round. If you need help preparing your HVAC system for the season ahead, don’t hesitate to contact Schomburg Heating & Cooling Inc. Our experts are ready to keep your home comfortable, no matter the weather. Schedule your appointment today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your HVAC system is in good hands.
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