How to Maintain Efficiency in Wet Weather
Vancouver Island’s long wet season brings saturated air, needles and leaves, and the occasional windstorm. None of that bothers a well-maintained system, but restricted airflow, standing water, or a covered outdoor unit can drag down performance and comfort. Use the steps below to maintain high efficiency without over-ventilating or risking damage.
Why Rain Tests HVAC Efficiency
- Airflow is everything. When needles, leaves, or snow shrouds block the outdoor coil, the unit must work harder to move heat.
- Standing water strains components. Poor drainage around the pad or a sunken, unstable base makes the fan and coil less effective.
- Controls drift over time. Thermostats and defrost controls can slip out of ideal settings after a season of storms or power bumps.
Outdoor Unit Checklist (Heat Pumps & AC Condensers)
- Maintain manufacturer-recommended clearances on all sides and above. Keep shrubs trimmed and remove any obstructions to the coil face or fan discharge. If you’re unsure about your model’s spec, we can confirm it during a tune-up. (BC utilities also emphasize keeping outdoor heat pump units free of vegetation and clutter so air can pass freely.)
- Avoid tight, full covers that trap moisture and block airflow. Use only a manufacturer-approved breathable top cover (if specified) and only when the unit is off for the season.
- Keep the top grate and coil face clear of needles/leaves after windy nights.
- Confirm drainage: The pad should be stable and level with clear runoff so water doesn’t pool beneath or around the unit.
- Gently rinse the outdoor coil a few times each season: power off at the disconnect, then use a low-pressure garden hose to rinse debris from the coil surface. Avoid pressure washers and don’t bend the fins. If fins are matted, call a pro for safe cleaning.
- Avoid airflow-blocking “winter caps.” If your manufacturer specifies a breathable top cover, use only that type, and only when the unit is off for the season.
Indoor Airflow Checklist
- Replace or clean filters on schedule (more often in storm season). Restrictive filters reduce efficiency and can cause icing or overheating.
- Open and clear supply/return registers. Don’t block with furniture, drapes, or boxes.
- Check HRV/ERV and furnace cabinet filters (if present) and clean per instructions.
- Keep ducts clean and sealed. If you notice excessive dust, musty odours, or visible debris after renovations, schedule a professional duct inspection/cleaning.
Controls & Defrost: Small Settings, Big Results
- Thermostat: Use steady setpoints for wet, windy days; avoid frequent large swings. (BC Hydro recommends “set it and forget it” for heat pumps, steady temperatures rather than frequent setbacks.) If rooms feel clammy on mild, rainy days, try shorter periodic fan “circulate” runs rather than constant-on.
- Heat-pump defrost: In cool, damp weather, periodic defrost cycles are regular. If you see long, frequent defrosts or heavy frost build-up that doesn’t clear, book a service check (airflow, sensors, and charge should be verified).
- Zoning & doors: Keep interior doors ajar to reduce humidity and temperature imbalances between rooms during storms.
Wet-Weather Myths to Skip
- “Covers save energy.” They usually trap moisture and block designed airflow.
- “Constant fan is always better.” It can feel clammy on mild/rainy days; try periodic “circulate” runs instead.
- “Rinse with a pressure washer.” That bends fins and can force water into electronics, stick to a gentle hose rinse with power off.
DIY vs Pro: Draw the Right Line
Homeowner-friendly
- Clear vegetation/needles; maintain manufacturer-recommended clearances; confirm the pad isn’t sinking.
- Gentle coil rinse (low pressure; power off) a few times per season.
- Replace filters; keep registers/returns open; basic weather-stripping; short fan “circulate” runs.
- Simple thermostat checks (schedule, temperature hold, humidity display if available).
Pro-only (book The Comfort Group)
- Electrical components and connections (capacitors, contactors) and control diagnostics.
- Defrost board and sensor testing; heat-pump performance testing in wet conditions.
- Static pressure and airflow measurements; blower speed/temperature-rise tuning.
- Refrigerant charge verification and leak checks.
- Deep coil cleaning, fin straightening, and safe detergents as required.
- Pad re-levelling, isolation feet, and drainage improvements when needed.
Service Timing That Pays Off
- After the first big blow-in of the season, quick outdoor clear-off and coil rinse.
- Mid-season: filter change and a controls check (defrost behaviour, thermostat schedule).
- Before the heaviest rains: schedule a complete Maintenance Plan tune-up to confirm airflow, electrical components and connections, and refrigerant so you’re running efficiently through the wettest stretch.
Book a Wet-Weather Tune-Up
Our technicians can verify airflow and charge, confirm defrost/control operation, and set thermostat schedules that fit your home. Prefer predictable upkeep? Our Maintenance Plans include an annual tune-up and priority service, so efficiency doesn’t slip when the rain moves in.