42% of homeowners surveyed experience heat-related home damage due to weather

As temperatures rise, so does the concern for heat-related home damage. From increased energy costs to expensive structural damage, heat waves can wreak havoc on a home. In fact, our recent survey revealed that 41% of U.S. homeowners have experienced home damage caused by high temperatures.

Extreme heat preparedness is more important than ever since climate change is causing increasingly frequent and intense heat waves (United States Environmental Protection Agency).

We surveyed over 1,000 U.S. homeowners to find out who is at risk for heat-related home damage—and how you can be better prepared.

Key takeaways from responding homeowners

• 41% of homeowners have experienced heat-related home damage due to summer weather. Preventative summer home maintenance can help you beat the heat and protect your home.
• 42% of responding homeowners have experienced HVAC system issues during heatwaves, highlighting the increased risk of strain during peak cooling periods.
• 75% of “very knowledgeable” responding homeowners have experienced heat-related home damage, revealing a surprising gap between knowledge and preparedness.
• Nearly two-thirds (65%) of U.S. homeowners are interested in learning more about home protection measures against heat-related home damage. This high level of interest highlights a growing desire for comfort and potentially lower energy bills in the face of rising temperatures.
• Homeowners prioritizing heat-related home maintenance are more likely to worry about rising energy costs. By addressing potential problems early on, homeowners can help avoid expenses down the line.
• 85% of responding homeowners completed at least one action to protect their home from heat-related damage. This finding suggests a widespread concern regarding heat-related issues in homes and a willingness to take action.

42% of homeowners experienced HVAC issues in past heat waves

A failing HVAC system during a scorching summer can lead to discomfort, costly utility repairs, and even health risks for more vulnerable populations.

Unfortunately, HVAC issues are a reality for 42% of U.S. homeowners who responded to our survey. Yet, fewer than half (47%) of these homeowners had their system professionally serviced within the last year, and even fewer (32%) said they’d done basic cleaning and maintenance for home appliances to help prevent heat-related home damage.

This gap highlights the importance of regular professional HVAC maintenance to help prevent unexpected issues during periods of extreme heat.

In addition to neglected HVAC maintenance, here’s how seemingly separate home maintenance issues can cause a chain reaction that harms your HVAC system:

• Clogged ducts or failing ventilation systems can restrict airflow, making it harder for HVAC systems to distribute air efficiently. This can force your HVAC to work harder, reducing efficiency and increasing energy bills.
• A failing water heater or poorly insulated areas can add extra heat to your home. The HVAC system then has to work harder to maintain the desired cool temperature, leading to strain and potential breakdowns.
• Faulty wiring or overloaded circuits can affect the power supply to your HVAC system. This can cause malfunctions, shut downs, or reduced operating capacity.

If you live in an area susceptible to heat waves, comprehensive inspections and cleanings could potentially help you save on your electric bill and reduce the strain on your cooling systems.

56% of respondents in lower-income households experience heat-related home damage

Our new data reveals a troubling trend: A substantial number of U.S. homeowners (41%) who responded to our survey have experienced heat-related home damage in the past. And as household income goes down, incidents of heat-related home damage soar higher.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2022 Income in the United States report, $74,580 is the median household income in the U.S. With this information in mind, we categorized “low-income” survey respondents based on if they fell within or below the 20th percentile, which equates to $30,000 or less in annual household income.

The majority (85%) of responding homeowners within this income categorization report feeling concerned over heat-related energy costs. That includes respondents who claim they are either “somewhat knowledgeable” (30%) or “very knowledgeable” (44%) about the home and utility risks associated with prolonged heat exposure.