Building owners and facility managers in Vermont often struggle with maintaining their HVAC systems in winter. And with unpredictable weather ranging from snow storms to rising temperatures that cause melting, it’s no wonder we all find it difficult. One question I get asked frequently is whether or not Vermont HVAC systems should have snow filters. Read on for the answer.
What is an HVAC Snow Filter?
There is a wide range of HVAC winterization products available, sometimes known as snow filters, snow screens, or weather guards. These products help reduce problems associated with ice and snow build-up around mechanical equipment. Snow screens:
- Help prevent snow damage to internal air filters
- Mitigate snow build-up inside plenums
- Assist with air flow during snow events
HVAC snow filter and weather guard products can also be effective air intake filters in the spring, summer, and fall, stopping bugs, pollen, and other debris from entering the system.
Should My Mechanical Systems Have Snow Filters?
In Vermont, winterization of mechanical systems is an important part of properly maintaining your equipment. You can help extend the life of your systems by performing regular maintenance. At Avonda Air Systems, we recommend including winterization as part of a defined preventative maintenance plan—and that often means using weather guards and snow filters.
Beyond the immediate problems of snow and ice build-up on mechanical systems (reduced air intake), problems can also come later when the snow begins to melt. The melting snow will most likely wet the outdoor air chambers which can cause microbe growth and affect air quality.
It’s ultimately up to you to decide whether or not to invest an HVAC snow filter. Whether or not you install one, be sure to consistently check your systems throughout the winter to keep them running at peak efficiency all through the season. Businesses can’t afford to shut down their mechanical systems because of a little snow—we’re tougher than that in Vermont.
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