Winter HVAC Maintenance Checklist: Keep Your Home Warm & Efficient

As temperatures drop, your heating system works harder to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Without proper maintenance, your HVAC system can become inefficient, leading to higher energy bills, unexpected breakdowns, and costly repairs. This Winter HVAC Maintenance Checklist will help you keep your system running smoothly, improve energy efficiency, and prevent potential heating emergencies.

1. Replace or Clean Your Air Filters

One of the simplest but most important maintenance tasks is changing your air filters. A dirty filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder and reducing efficiency.

Best Practices for Air Filter Maintenance:

Replace filters every one to three months, especially during peak heating season.
Use high-efficiency filters, such as HEPA filters, to improve indoor air quality.
Check filters monthly and clean or replace them as needed.

2. Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection

A professional HVAC tune-up ensures your system is operating efficiently and helps detect small issues before they turn into expensive repairs.

What a Winter HVAC Tune-Up Includes:

Inspection and cleaning of the heat exchanger
Calibration of the thermostat
Testing for carbon monoxide leaks
Lubrication of moving parts to reduce wear and tear
Checking ductwork for leaks or blockages

Scheduling regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your heating system and reduce the risk of breakdowns. Contact ARCO Heating & Cooling today to schedule your winter HVAC inspection.

3. Optimize Your Thermostat Settings

Proper thermostat settings can help maintain comfort while reducing energy costs.

Recommended Winter Thermostat Settings:

Set your thermostat to 68°F when at home for optimal energy savings.
Lower the temperature by 7-10°F when sleeping or away to reduce heating costs.
Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for automated temperature adjustments and energy savings.

4. Inspect and Seal Air Leaks

Even with a well-functioning HVAC system, heat loss through gaps and cracks can reduce efficiency. Sealing air leaks helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures and lowers heating costs.

How to Detect and Seal Air Leaks:

Check for drafts near windows and doors.
Inspect ductwork for visible gaps or disconnected sections.
Use weather stripping and caulk to seal gaps around doors and windows.
Consider adding insulation in the attic to prevent heat loss.

5. Clean Your Vents and Registers

Blocked or dirty vents restrict airflow, making your HVAC system work harder. Keeping them clean and unblocked improves efficiency and ensures even heating.

How to Maintain Your Vents:

Vacuum dust and debris from vents and registers.
Make sure furniture or rugs are not blocking airflow.
Wipe down grilles and covers to remove dust buildup.

6. Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Furnaces and heating systems that burn gas produce carbon monoxide, which is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if undetected.

Carbon Monoxide Safety Tips:

Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home.
Replace detector batteries every six months.
Schedule an annual furnace inspection to check for gas leaks.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure include dizziness, nausea, headaches, and shortness of breath. If you suspect a leak, leave the home immediately and seek professional help.

7. Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clear

If you have a heat pump or an outdoor HVAC unit, it is essential to keep it clear of debris and snow buildup to maintain performance.

How to Prevent Issues:

Remove leaves, dirt, and snow from around the unit.
Keep at least two feet of clearance around the system.
Check for frost buildup, which may indicate a defrost cycle issue.

8. Know When to Call a Professional

If your heating system is not performing as expected, it is best to call a professional before a small issue turns into a major repair.

Signs Your HVAC System Needs Attention:

Uneven or weak heating throughout the home
Unusual noises such as banging, rattling, or whistling
An unexpected increase in energy bills
Frequent cycling on and off

Schedule Your Winter HVAC Maintenance with ARCO Heating & Cooling

Winter HVAC maintenance is essential for keeping your home warm, energy-efficient, and safe. A well-maintained system not only reduces the risk of costly breakdowns but also ensures better performance throughout the colder months.

Contact ARCO Heating & Cooling to schedule a professional HVAC inspection and keep your system running at peak efficiency this winter.