Winter in Bothell can be beautiful, with its crisp mornings and scenic views along the Sammamish River. But for homeowners, those chilly months often bring challenges when it comes to keeping their homes warm and cozy. At Cascadia Comfort, we’ve helped countless Bothell residents tackle common heating problems—and we’re here to help you, too!
Here are the top heating issues homeowners in Bothell face during winter, along with tips to keep your home comfortable all season long.
1. Uneven Heating in Multi-Story Homes
Bothell’s mix of modern multi-story homes and charming older houses often struggles with uneven heating. It’s common for the upper floors to feel warmer while the lower levels remain chilly.
What causes it?
- Poor insulation in older homes.
- Inefficient ductwork or unbalanced airflow.
How to fix it:
- Install a zoning system to control temperatures in different parts of your home.
- Check for air leaks around windows and doors—especially important during Bothell’s damp winters.
- Schedule a ductwork inspection with Cascadia Comfort to ensure optimal airflow.
2. Clogged Air Filters
With Bothell’s cool, damp air, HVAC filters can clog faster than usual due to moisture, dust, and mold spores.
Why it’s a problem:
A clogged filter restricts airflow, making your system work harder, increasing energy bills, and reducing the overall lifespan of your unit.
How to fix it:
- Replace or clean your air filters every 1–3 months during heavy heating use.
- Consider reusable filters to save money and reduce waste.
Here are some highly rated reusable filters to consider:
3. Furnace Breakdowns During Cold Snaps
Bothell’s temperatures can dip into the low 30s during winter nights, putting extra strain on older or poorly maintained furnaces.
What causes it?
- Lack of regular maintenance.
- Worn-out components like belts, bearings, or ignition systems.
How to fix it:
- Schedule a professional tune-up before winter hits to catch potential problems early.
- If your furnace is over 15 years old, consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model. Cascadia Comfort offers free quotes for new installations—contact us to learn more!
Helpful Tip: How Can You Find Out the Age of Your Furnace?
If you’re unsure how old your furnace is, here’s a quick way to check:
- Look at the Manufacturer’s Label: Locate the serial number on your furnace, usually found on a sticker or plate near the access panel.
- Decode the Serial Number: Many manufacturers include the year of manufacture in the serial number. For example, the first two digits often represent the year.
- Check the Manual: If you have the owner’s manual, the installation date is often noted there.
- Ask a Pro: Not sure how to decode it? Call Cascadia Comfort, and we can help identify the age during a service visit.
If your furnace is over 15 years old, it may be time to plan for a replacement to avoid costly breakdowns.
4. High Energy Bills
Bothell’s winters are known for being wet—averaging around 15 inches of rain between November and February—and heat pumps can struggle in these conditions. Common problems include freezing outdoor units or reduced efficiency due to debris.
What’s the culprit?
- Outdated heating systems that aren’t energy-efficient.
- Poor insulation or drafts in your home.
How to fix it:
- Seal drafts around windows, doors, and attic spaces.
- Upgrade to a high-efficiency heat pump or furnace to reduce energy use and qualify for potential energy rebates in Washington State.
How Can You Tell If Your Energy Bill Is Too High?
Understanding whether your energy bill is high, low, or average involves looking at a few key factors:
- Compare to Regional Averages: In Washington State, the average monthly electricity bill is about $103, though this varies by household size and usage. If yours is consistently much higher, it could signal inefficiencies in your HVAC system or insulation.
- Look for Spikes: Compare your winter bills to your summer bills. Significant increases could indicate that your heating system is overworking.
- Audit Your Usage: Contact your utility company for a home energy audit. This can highlight where you’re losing energy and how to address it.
- Track Your Costs Over Time: Use apps or tools provided by your utility company to track your usage and see how it compares to similar homes in your area.
5. Heat Pump Issues in Damp Weather
Bothell’s winters are known for being wet, and heat pumps can struggle in these conditions. Common problems include freezing outdoor units or reduced efficiency due to debris.
How to fix it:
- Keep your outdoor unit free of debris like leaves and snow.
- Schedule regular maintenance to ensure your heat pump operates efficiently throughout the season.
How Cascadia Comfort Can Help Bothell Homeowners
As your neighbors here in the Pacific Northwest, we understand the unique heating challenges that Bothell homeowners face. Whether you need a quick repair, a full furnace replacement, or advice on energy-saving upgrades, our team is here to help.
Why choose Cascadia Comfort?
- Local expertise with a focus on community.
- Top-rated on Google for our commitment to quality service.
- Proud partners with American Standard, offering industry-leading HVAC solutions.
Schedule Your Winter Heating Tune-Up Today!
Don’t let heating issues leave your family in the cold this winter. Cascadia Comfort is just around the corner, ready to keep your Bothell home warm and worry-free. Contact us today to schedule your winter tune-up or get a free quote on a new system. Let’s make this winter your most comfortable one yet!