The winter temperatures in Amarillo, TX, and the Texas Panhandle are generally mild, but they can dip into the teens and sometimes go below zero. Regular preventative HVAC maintenance is a great way to ensure your system keeps you warm all winter.
If you’re wondering how to properly care for your HVAC, the Frank’s Repair Plumbing, Inc. team has some great HVAC maintenance tips to make things easier. Remember these tips to keep your home’s HVAC system in good shape this winter.
Why HVAC Maintenance Matters in Winter
Before we go over our seasonal HVAC maintenance tips, here’s why maintenance matters during the winter season:
- Cleaning and tune-ups help your HVAC system run more efficiently, so you save money on your monthly home heating costs.
- Finding and addressing smaller issues early during maintenance helps prevent major, more costly breakdowns in the middle of the winter when you need your heat the most.
- Regular maintenance keeps your home warm and extends the service life of your HVAC system by catching problems and getting needed repairs early.
- When you replace dirty air filters and clean your air ducts, the indoor air quality in your home is cleaner and free of allergens, dust, and other airborne pollutants. This is particularly important in winter when many people experience respiratory issues more frequently.
- A professional HVAC inspection is the best way to find possible issues related to dangerous carbon monoxide leaks if your system runs on natural gas or propane.
- When your system is well-maintained, you’ll enjoy reliable comfort all winter long.
HVAC Maintenance Tips
Here are some helpful HVAC tips for winter to help you maintain your system properly so it runs as smoothly as possible.
Change your HVAC filter
Most HVAC filters should be changed every 30 to 90 days, depending on your manufacturer’s specifications. If your current filter is dirty or clogged, changing it for a new filter improves airflow and keeps your system running smoothly during the winter. A clean air filter also reduces strain on your system and helps it operate as efficiently as possible when the system is on.
Check and adjust your thermostat
Test your thermostat to confirm it’s working as it should. You may need to adjust the thermostat to a higher temperature to confirm that the HVAC is heating the air properly. Make sure the thermostat is turned on and set on the “heat” setting. Consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat that you can adjust remotely to reduce wear and tear on your system when you’re not home.
Check your HVAC ducts for cracks or leaks
Your air ducts are responsible for delivering warm air to your home. If they’re cracked or leaking, your HVAC won’t operate as efficiently as it should. A professional air duct inspection and repair (if needed) is a smart way to get your ductwork in good condition before winter arrives.
Clean the vents
Dirty or blocked vents can hinder your HVAC’s performance. Make sure your vents are free from obstructions like furniture or area rugs. If they’re dirty, clean them thoroughly to remove excess dirt and other buildup that can interfere with airflow. Now is also a great time to check that all your vents and air registers are open and ready to deliver warm air to your home.
For heat pumps: clear snow and ice from the outdoor unit
If you have a heat pump, it’s crucial to clear any snow and ice from the outdoor unit as often and early as possible to prevent excess buildup. Use a broom or a large, soft-bristled brush to gently remove snow from the unit so it doesn’t get damaged. To remove ice, turn the unit to the “defrost” cycle until the ice melts rather than using sharp tools.
Schedule a professional HVAC tune-up
Regular professional HVAC inspections and tune-ups allow you to identify issues early and perform essential maintenance tasks like lubricating moving parts, checking gas or electrical connections, and more. A professional HVAC tune-up ensures your system is working properly and safely. Consider signing up for our HVAC Diamond Club to receive quality professional maintenance all year round.
Keep your HVAC unit clear
You might be tempted to use the area of your home where the HVAC unit sits as a storage closet. However, it’s important to keep the unit free of any obstructions that could restrict airflow or potentially cause a house fire. Ideally, your HVAC system should have at least 10 to 15 feet of clear area around it for safety and efficiency.
Look for warning signs
Identifying potential warning signs early is one of the best ways to keep your HVAC in good shape this winter. If you notice loud banging, grinding, or buzzing sounds, or if you smell gas, turn off your unit and contact the team at Frank’s right away. Other warning signs your HVAC may need attention include strong burning odors, short cycling, uneven heating in your home, and visible signs of damage like rust, corrosion, or furnace leaks.
Seal drafts and check your insulation
Improper or inadequate insulation makes your home feel colder than it should, so your HVAC works harder to heat it. Over time, this could cause your system to malfunction, resulting in expensive and frustrating breakdowns. Fall is a good time to check that your attic, basement, and other areas of your home are properly insulated. You should also seal and block drafty windows and doors by adding new weatherstripping to keep warm air inside.
Call Frank’s Repair Plumbing Today
Remember these HVAC winter maintenance tips to keep your system running in top condition this winter and into the future. Founded in 1953, Frank’s Repair Plumbing, Inc. is proud to serve our customers in Amarillo and the surrounding areas for over 70 years. Our NATE-certified technicians are here to help with all your HVAC needs.
If you’re ready to schedule maintenance or would like to request another service, contact us today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What should my HVAC be set at in winter?
In winter, the ideal temperature setting for your HVAC is 68°F during the day and about six degrees lower when you’re away or sleeping. Lowering your temperature by just a few degrees each day can reduce home heating costs and wear and tear on your system.
How often should I replace my HVAC air filter in winter?
While most air filters should be replaced every 30 to 90 days, changing your air filter every 30 days in winter is best. Dust and pet dander build up more heavily in winter when the doors and windows are closed.
What should I do if my furnace isn’t heating properly during winter?
If your furnace isn’t heating your home properly during winter, start by testing the thermostat, changing the air filter, and inspecting your air vents. If you still have issues, we recommend calling Frank’s Repair Plumbing, Inc. to schedule an inspection and repair.
