Many homeowners rely on furnaces and heat pumps to keep interiors comfortable once winter arrives. Equipment malfunctions aren’t only inconvenient, they could also be dangerous. Family members could get sick in the frigid conditions. Plumbing equipment could also freeze and crack, increasing the risk of water damage inside your space. Luckily, following a few steps will prevent the need for emergency heating system repair during the season. 

How to Keep HVAC Equipment Running Smoothly This Winter

1. Change the Air Filter Once a Month

Forgetting to change the HVAC filter could result in the need for extensive heating system repairs. When the device is clogged with dirt, dust, and additional debris, air can’t move through the screen. This forces the motor to work overtime, increasing the risk of the entire system overheating. To improve equipment performance, conserve energy, and reduce the chance of malfunctions, clean or change the filter once a month during winter.  

2. Keep Return Vents Clean

Dirty return vents also impact HVAC system efficiency. Particles the filter doesn’t catch can cause blockages in ducts and accumulate on vents. This restricts airflow, causing equipment to work harder. To prevent strain on the system, remember to dust off the registers. Closing vents in unoccupied areas, or rooms on upper floors that remain warm, will help keep energy costs low. This is because equipment won’t have to drain more energy to circulate heat to every inch of the house. 

3. Schedule Regular Maintenance Checks

Because most homeowners keep furnaces and heat pumps running non-stop during the winter, minor inefficiencies could spiral into major performance problems. It’s best to schedule routine maintenance service throughout the colder months, as an HVAC contractor will locate and fix underlying issues before they cause a complete system breakdown. The heating system repair provider will also recharge freon, inspect electrical components for loose connections, recalibrate the thermostat, and provide additional solutions to ensure equipment works when you need it. 

If you haven’t had trained technicians examine your HVAC system this winter, the crew at Arc Electric & Air Conditioning & Heating in Wilder, KY, will perform a thorough inspection. Beyond repairing damaged components, the team will also tell you what signs to watch for to catch any future issues as soon as they arise. To schedule heating system repair, installation, or maintenance in Campbell County, call (859) 441-7161. Visit the heating contractors online to see how much you’ll save on operation costs by upgrading to an Energy Star®-rated system and connect on Facebook for company announcements.