02/03/2025

Essential Guide to Preparing Your HVAC System for Winter

As winter approaches, ensuring your home stays warm and comfortable becomes a top priority. One of the most crucial steps in winter preparedness is making sure your HVAC system for winter is ready to handle the cold months ahead. A properly maintained system not only provides reliable heating but also improves energy efficiency and reduces the likelihood of unexpected breakdowns.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to prepare your HVAC system for winter, helping you maximize comfort while keeping energy costs under control. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to maintain your system or need professional assistance, Mannix Heating & Cooling is here to help.

1. Replace or Clean Air Filters

One of the simplest yet most important maintenance tasks for your HVAC system is checking and replacing air filters. Dirty filters restrict airflow, making your system work harder to heat your home. This not only reduces efficiency but can also lead to higher energy bills and potential system malfunctions.

How Often Should You Change the Filter?

Standard filters: Every 1-3 months
HEPA or high-efficiency filters: Every 6-12 months
Homes with pets or allergies: Monthly

Regularly replacing or cleaning your filters will improve indoor air quality, enhance efficiency, and extend the life of your heating system.

2. Inspect and Clean Vents & Ductwork

Dust, debris, and even mold can accumulate in your ductwork, reducing airflow and affecting indoor air quality. Before winter sets in, take time to inspect and clean your vents and ducts.

Signs Your Ductwork Needs Cleaning:

Uneven heating throughout the house
Increased dust buildup in rooms
Musty or unpleasant odors from vents
Higher-than-usual energy bills

If you notice any of these issues, consider professional duct cleaning. Mannix Heating & Cooling offers comprehensive duct cleaning services to improve airflow and enhance your heating system’s performance.

3. Test Your Thermostat & Upgrade if Necessary

Your thermostat is the control center of your heating system. If it’s not functioning properly, your home may not reach the desired temperature efficiently.

Steps to Check Your Thermostat:

Set the temperature a few degrees higher than the current room temperature.
Listen for the furnace to turn on.
If there’s a delay or no response, consider replacing the batteries or upgrading to a smart thermostat.

Benefits of a Smart Thermostat:

Automatically adjusts to your schedule
Increases energy efficiency
Provides remote access and control
Reduces heating costs

A well-calibrated and efficient thermostat can significantly enhance your HVAC system for winter, keeping your home warm while minimizing energy waste.

4. Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection

Routine maintenance is key to ensuring your heating system operates smoothly throughout the colder months. A professional inspection can help detect minor issues before they become costly repairs.

What’s Included in an HVAC Inspection?

Checking and cleaning burners
Inspecting heat exchangers for cracks
Lubricating moving parts
Testing safety controls
Examining electrical connections

Mannix Heating & Cooling offers comprehensive HVAC inspections to ensure your system is winter-ready. Scheduling an inspection before the peak of winter can prevent unexpected breakdowns and keep your home comfortable all season long.

5. Seal Leaks & Improve Insulation

Even with a well-maintained HVAC system, your home’s efficiency can be compromised if warm air is escaping through leaks and poor insulation.

How to Identify & Fix Air Leaks:

Windows & Doors: Use weather stripping or caulking to seal gaps.
Ductwork: Inspect for visible gaps or disconnected sections.
Attic & Walls: Add insulation to retain heat more effectively.

By sealing leaks and improving insulation, you can reduce heat loss and ensure your HVAC system for winter operates at peak efficiency.

6. Check Carbon Monoxide & Smoke Detectors

Your furnace burns fuel to generate heat, and while modern systems are designed to be safe, there’s always a risk of carbon monoxide (CO) leaks. Installing and maintaining carbon monoxide detectors can help protect your family from this silent danger.

Safety Tips:

Replace detector batteries twice a year.
Install CO detectors near sleeping areas.
Schedule regular furnace inspections to prevent leaks.

A well-functioning CO detector is an essential safeguard for your home, especially during winter when heating systems run frequently.

7. Clear the Area Around Your Heating Unit

Whether you have a furnace, boiler, or heat pump, keeping the surrounding area clear of debris is crucial for safety and efficiency.

Why This Matters:

Prevents fire hazards
Ensures proper airflow
Reduces strain on the system

Keep at least a 3-foot clearance around your heating unit to allow for optimal performance and easy maintenance access.

8. Consider a Heating System Upgrade

If your HVAC system is over 15 years old, it may be time for an upgrade. Older systems often operate less efficiently, leading to higher energy costs and frequent repairs.

Signs You Need a New System:

Uneven heating throughout your home
Frequent breakdowns and costly repairs
Rising energy bills despite maintenance

Modern heating systems, including energy-efficient furnaces and heat pumps, offer significant cost savings in the long run. Mannix Heating & Cooling provides expert recommendations and installation services to help you choose the right system for your home.

9. Protect Outdoor Units from Ice & Snow

If you have an outdoor heat pump or condenser unit, protecting it from harsh winter conditions is essential. Snow and ice buildup can restrict airflow and impact performance.

How to Protect Your Outdoor Unit:

Keep the area around it clear of snow and debris.
Avoid covering it completely (this can trap moisture).
Elevate it slightly to prevent snow accumulation.

Routine checks and proper maintenance will keep your unit running smoothly, even in extreme weather.

10. Set Up a Winter Maintenance Plan with Mannix Heating & Cooling

Preventative maintenance is the best way to avoid costly breakdowns and ensure your HVAC system runs efficiently throughout winter. A professional tune-up can improve performance, reduce energy consumption, and extend the lifespan of your system.

Why Choose Mannix Heating & Cooling?
Experienced HVAC professionals
Comprehensive inspections & tune-ups
Affordable maintenance plans
Emergency repair services

Final Thoughts

Preparing your HVAC system for winter is essential to keeping your home warm, energy-efficient, and safe. By following these steps—changing air filters, sealing leaks, testing your thermostat, and scheduling a professional inspection—you can ensure your system is ready to handle the cold months ahead.

For expert HVAC services, contact Mannix Heating & Cooling today. Whether you need routine maintenance, repairs, or a system upgrade, our team is here to keep your home comfortable all winter long.

Customer Reviews

Shondra J ones

They were lifesavers!!! My furnace went out and after three days of dealing with the home warranty company and the unscrupulous vendor they sent to my home, I called Mannix. The service technician was friendly, efficient but most of all honest. He found the problem after twenty minutes, saving me thousands in unnecessary replacement costs. It is refreshing to know that honest people still exist.

Lynne Wilson

I contacted Mannix from a referral of a friend who has benefitted from the excellent service this company provides. I found out a couple I know in Vienna had their heat pump stop working a few months ago and needed to be replaced. I called up the Mannix office later in the day on Monday 11/30/20 and provided information needed. I had a proposal in my email the next morning 12-01-20. This will enable me to discuss with my friends how they wish to proceed with fair financing options available too. This is EXCELLENT customer service and I would like Mr. Mannix to know that Sarah is an amazing professional face for his company. I plan to become a customer of theirs by signing up for the annual maintenance plan which is very reasonable priced. Sincerely, Lynne Wilson

Philip Slingerland

Been a happy Mannix customer for a few years now, but recently had them replace our aging HVAC system. The whole process was very painless, from Eric helping us decide which system was right for our home, to the efficient and professional installation by Billy and Matt. I am very pleased with the new system and very impressed with the level of service, communication, and detailed information I received from everyone involved. Highly recommend!

K.E.

Before dealing with Mannix I used two very well-known and “reputable” HVAC companies who did nothing but rip us off over the years. I was frustrated and found Mannix Heating & Cooling about 10 years ago. They installed a new HVAC system in my old home, and installed a water heater and various other items in my new home. They also have been doing yearly maintenance for years. Their employees are the most honest, reliable, and knowledgeable individuals in this industry. We recently had an issue with our HVAC system and they came out within a few hours on an emergency call. The technician was prompt, kind, professional, and very fair. He figured out what was wrong with our system quickly and remedied it immediately. Do not hesitate to call them if you need anything–you won’t regret it!

Wendy Collins

Mannix has always been professional from service calls to repairs and replacements. The technicians are always polite and knowledgeable. They consistently exceed our expectations.

Gary Hendricks

Mannix proved very responsive in fixing my A/C system. The tech, Erick, was very professional by taking the time showing and explaining to me the system problem prior to taking action replacing the coil. Ashleigh, customer service, was excellent in addressing and following through on concerns in order to achieve total customer satisfaction.

M. Reyzer

My 24-year-old heat pump finally decided to stop working. I sent a request for a replacement estimate late one night through the Mannix website and received a phone call early the very next morning to set up an appointment. Eric Holzworth stopped by my house the next day to go over my options. He was wonderful and so easy to work with and answered every question I had. He definitely listened to me and my concerns did not push me into purchasing a high-end system which I didn’t need. The technicians arrived at 8am and were finished with the entire installation by 1pm. They were very courteous and left my house in pristine condition. I HIGHLY recommend Mannix! They always returned my calls and emails right away, and Eric made sure I received all of my equipment on time–even with Carrier factory delays/limited supplies due to COVID. So glad I chose Mannix. I love my brand new Carrier system and my cold house during these hot and humid days.

M.B.

We were in desperate need of a fix on our AC system during the July heatwave. The issue arose on a Saturday. Mannix came to the rescue in short order, fixed it, and at a reasonable price.

Silvio G was the technician, and he was GREAT.

We would definitely use Mannix again!

Patricia Ryan

I have been using Mannix for years. They have replaced my HVAC system and I have them do maintenance twice a year. The past couple of visits have been done by Ramiro. He is professional, polite, knowledgeable, and very helpful in assisting me with tips on the best ways to operate my system. Today, he installed a water safety device and taught me exactly how it works and how to reset it. I’m so impressed with him! I will continue with Mannix for years to come as I find them to be very reputable and reliable. Thank you!

Rachel Craft

I’ve been using Mannix for years and have never been disappointed. They’ve replaced my HVAC, hot water heater and installed a humidifier on my furnace. Whenever I need them, they can get me on the schedule in a timely manner. All the personnel are great and I trust Jerry and his team with their recommendations and the work they do. Would highly recommend.