Minnesota winters are tough enough without the power going out. When heavy snow or ice brings down lines, your home’s HVAC system can take the hit, especially when the power flickers on and off again. Sudden surges or failed restarts can harm your furnace, air handler, or heat pump before you even realize it.
At Standard Heating & Air Conditioning, we’ve helped Twin Cities homeowners stay safe and comfortable through every kind of winter storm since 1930. Here’s what you should know about protecting your HVAC system from surge damage, power outages, and generator issues when cold weather strikes.
What Happens During a Power Surge
A power surge is a sudden spike in electricity. It can happen when power is restored after an outage, when lightning strikes nearby lines, or when a generator turns on and off. These quick bursts can burn out sensitive HVAC parts, like control boards, blower motors, or smart thermostats.
Even a small surge can cost hundreds of dollars in repairs. That’s why many homeowners install a dedicated HVAC surge protector. This small device connects to your furnace or heat pump and blocks excess voltage before it reaches the equipment.
How Smart Thermostats React to Outages
Smart thermostats are great for managing comfort and saving energy, but they depend on steady power and internet. When the power goes out, they may lose connection or forget your settings.
Here are a few easy ways to keep things running smoothly:
- Keep backup batteries installed so your thermostat saves your settings.
- Wait for steady power before turning the system back on, because flickering power can cause errors.
- Check your Wi-Fi connection once power is restored so remote control features work again.
- Avoid pressing too many buttons right away to give the system a few minutes to reconnect and reset itself.
If your thermostat still doesn’t respond after power returns, a quick reboot usually fixes it.
Why Crankcase Heaters Matter in Cold Weather
If you have a heat pump, there’s a small part inside called a crankcase heater. It keeps the refrigerant warm when your system isn’t running, so it doesn’t move into the wrong part of the compressor.
When the power goes out, that heater stops working. If you restart the system too soon, cold refrigerant can damage the compressor. To avoid this, wait at least 30 minutes after power comes back before turning your heat pump on again. That short wait gives the system time to warm up and rebalance safely.
Using a Generator to Power Your HVAC System
Many Minnesota homeowners use generators during long outages, but not every setup works safely with a furnace or heat pump. HVAC systems draw a lot of power when they start, and that can overload a small or incorrectly wired generator.
Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Use an automatic transfer switch so the system safely switches between generator and utility power.
- Check that your generator is large enough to run the HVAC system along with lights or appliances.
- Add surge protection to both your generator and HVAC equipment for extra safety.
- Never plug HVAC equipment into a portable generator using extension cords. It’s unsafe and can damage the system.
If you’re not sure your system and generator are compatible, our team can review your setup and recommend a safe plan before the next storm hits.
How to Restart Your HVAC System After an Outage
When power comes back, it’s normal to want your heat on right away, but take a few quick steps first to protect your equipment.
- Turn your thermostat off until you know power is steady.
- Check your circuit breakers to make sure nothing has tripped.
- Look at your outdoor unit and clear away any snow or ice.
- Wait at least 30 minutes so the crankcase heater can warm up again.
- Turn the thermostat back on and set it to “heat.”
If your furnace or heat pump doesn’t start, or you notice unusual noises or smells, it’s best to call a professional before trying again.
Protect Your HVAC System Before the Next Winter Storm
Minnesota winters can bring everything from freezing rain to heavy ice, and when storms hit, the power grid doesn’t always keep up. Taking a few simple precautions, like installing an HVAC surge protector, can help you avoid costly damage and long repair delays when the lights go out.
At Standard Heating & Air Conditioning, we help homeowners across Minneapolis and St. Paul stay prepared, protected, and comfortable no matter how harsh the winter gets.
Don’t wait until the lights go out to think about protection. Call Standard Heating & Air Conditioning today to schedule surge protection or seasonal maintenance before the next storm hits.
