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When winter rolls around, there’s nothing better than having a warm, comfortable home to come back to. But to keep your home cozy without sending your energy bills soaring, your HVAC system needs to be prepared. These essential HVAC tips can help ensure your system is ready to handle even the coldest days, keeping you warm while saving energy and extending the lifespan of your equipment.
A professional inspection is one of the best ways to prepare your HVAC system for winter. Having a technician assess your system before the cold sets in helps ensure that any potential issues are detected early. During an inspection, technicians will check for any mechanical problems, clean crucial components, and test for leaks. Not only does this save you from sudden breakdowns, but it also improves efficiency, which can lead to lower heating costs.
To learn more about what to look for, check out this guide on winterizing your HVAC system.
One of the simplest yet most impactful things you can do for your HVAC system is to replace or clean air filters regularly. Air filters trap dust, pollen, and other particles that circulate through your home, but they can become clogged over time. A clogged filter forces your system to work harder, leading to higher energy usage and wear on the unit. Most experts recommend changing your air filter every one to three months, depending on your system’s usage and whether you have pets or allergies.
By keeping a clean filter, your HVAC system will run more efficiently, and you’ll benefit from cleaner air and a warmer home during winter.
Drafty windows and doors can significantly reduce your HVAC system's efficiency by letting warm air escape. Walk around your home and check for any gaps or cracks around windows and doors, and seal them with caulk or weather stripping. You can also add insulation around your windows to help reduce heat loss. Even heavy curtains can help retain warmth during winter nights, reducing the need for constant heating.
This simple step goes a long way in creating a cozy atmosphere and reducing the load on your HVAC system. For more tips, read about making the most of your system during a spring-winter transition.
Keeping your thermostat at a steady, comfortable temperature is key to maintaining warmth without overspending on energy. During the day, consider setting the thermostat between 68-72°F, which most find comfortable. At night, lowering it by a few degrees can help save on heating bills. If you have a programmable thermostat, set different temperatures for different times of the day. Some smart thermostats even learn your heating habits and adjust automatically for maximum energy savings.
Warm Up Smartly
Stay ahead of the cold and optimize your comfort levels by connecting with us for personalized thermostat settings and HVAC maintenance solutions.
Blocked vents and registers can significantly impact how well your home heats up. Make sure furniture, curtains, or rugs aren’t covering any vents, as this can restrict airflow. Dusting vents and registers before winter also helps improve indoor air quality and allows warm air to circulate freely. With unobstructed vents, your HVAC system can heat your home more evenly and efficiently.
Over time, your furnace can accumulate dust and debris, especially if it hasn’t been used since the previous winter. Cleaning the furnace, or scheduling a professional cleaning, ensures it’s working at its best. A clean furnace doesn’t have to work as hard, which can lower energy costs and increase its lifespan. Just remember to clear away any flammable materials around the furnace, as these could pose a fire risk when the system heats up.
Want to know the right time to switch your system’s settings? Check out our guide on when and how to switch your HVAC from cooling to heating.
During winter, the air tends to be dry, which can lead to uncomfortable skin, irritated sinuses, and dry respiratory passages. A humidifier helps to add moisture to the air, creating a more comfortable environment. Humidified air feels warmer, which means you can lower your thermostat slightly without losing comfort. If you already have a whole-house humidifier, have it checked as part of your pre-winter HVAC inspection.
Humidifiers don’t just help you feel warmer—they also protect wood furnishings from drying out and cracking in low humidity.
Dust and debris in your ducts can reduce airflow, causing your HVAC system to work harder and less efficiently. If you’ve noticed dust buildup or musty odors when your system kicks on, it might be time for a duct cleaning. By keeping your ducts clean, you’ll ensure your HVAC system is delivering warm air effectively throughout your home, making your space warmer while saving energy.
Duct cleaning also helps improve air quality, which is especially beneficial if anyone in your home suffers from allergies or asthma.
If you have a heat pump, keeping the outdoor unit clean and free of debris is essential. Make sure to clear away leaves, dirt, and any other obstructions from around the unit, and check that no vegetation is growing too close. For winter, consider adding a cover to protect the unit from snow and ice buildup, but make sure it’s a breathable cover to prevent moisture from getting trapped inside.
Cleaning the outdoor unit helps maintain airflow, which is vital for efficient heating in colder months.
Upgrading insulation, particularly in the attic and around your ducts, is one of the most effective ways to retain warmth and reduce energy costs. Proper insulation reduces the workload on your HVAC system by keeping more warm air inside. Look for areas around your home that might need additional insulation, such as walls, floors, and crawl spaces.
Better insulation keeps warm air inside and cold air out, making it easier for your HVAC system to heat your home effectively all winter long.
Stay Cozy and Efficient This Winter
To ensure every room in your home stays warm, reach out to our team for comprehensive insulation assessments and HVAC upgrades.
Following these tips for winter HVAC preparation will help keep your home warm and comfortable all season long, while also protecting your system and lowering your energy bills.
