Winterizing Your HVAC Equipment: Cozy Tips From Stout Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.

Winterizing your HVAC equipment isn’t just part of a desirable to-do list; it’s a must-do to keep your heater running efficiently and your home feeling cozy. Not to mention, a little prep work now can help you avoid mid-winter breakdowns and keep that energy bill in check!

For years, Stout Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. has been helping homeowners around Rockwell, stay comfortable and warm. We know our way around a heating system, which is why we have compiled these tips to help you prepare your system for the winter season.

Tips to Winterizing Your Heating System in Rockwell

Let’s dive into some simple (but essential) steps to winterize your HVAC system and keep your home warm all season.

1. Schedule a Professional HVAC Maintenance Tune-Up

A seasonal tune-up is your HVAC system’s version of a check-up. By hiring a professional from Stout Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. to inspect and service your heating equipment, you can catch any small issues before they become big, costly problems.

Regular maintenance helps avoid sudden breakdowns and ensures your system runs at peak efficiency, saving you money on your energy bill.

Plus, a well-maintained system lasts longer, so you’re also investing in the longevity of your equipment!

During a tune-up, our technician will:

• Inspect and clean the blower, burner, and heat exchanger
• Check thermostat calibration
• Tighten electrical connections
• Lubricate moving parts
• Test the system’s overall safety and efficiency

An annual tune-up doesn’t just give you peace of mind—it helps keep your heater in tip-top shape, ready to face whatever winter throws at it.

2. Replace Your Air Filters

One of the easiest and most impactful ways to winterize your HVAC system is to swap out its air filter. A dirty filter forces your HVAC system to work harder, reducing efficiency and potentially causing it to overheat and shut down.

Depending on the type of filter and your home’s air quality, it’s best to replace your filter every 1-3 months. For a more specific timeline, check your HVAC system’s manual to know when it is best to replace them and which filters are recommended for your unit.

And, if you haven’t done so recently, invest in high-quality filters. Some air filters are designed to trap smaller particles like dust mites, pollen, and even bacteria, which can make a huge difference in indoor air quality. This becomes especially important during winter when more time is spent indoors.

3. Clean Your Air Vents and Ducts

Air vents and ducts can collect dust, debris, and even pet dander over time. If left unaddressed, airflow can become restricted, leading to your HVAC system working overtime just to heat your home. And not only does this put more wear on your system, but it also drives up your energy costs.

While you might not need a full duct cleaning every year, it is a good idea to check your vents and registers for dust buildup. Use a vacuum or a damp cloth to wipe down accessible areas.

For a year-round bonus, be sure to clear away any furniture, rugs, or other items that are blocking your vent’s airflow.

4. Check Your Thermostat (and Consider Upgrading)

One of the best ways to boost your HVAC’s winter performance is to upgrade to a programmable thermostat. Programmable thermostats let you create a heating schedule that works with your daily routine, helping you save energy without sacrificing comfort.

For instance, you can set the heat to lower when you’re away at work and have it warm up again before you get home.

If you already have a programmable thermostat, check the batteries and ensure it’s correctly calibrated. You might also consider a smart thermostat, which can learn your preferences over time and change settings remotely through an app—going leaps and bounds beyond programmable thermostat capabilities.

5. Clear the Area Around Your Outdoor Unit

If you have a heat pump or another type of outdoor HVAC unit, be sure to clear away leaves, branches, and other debris. Winter storms can cause pile-ups around your outdoor unit, potentially blocking airflow. 

While outdoor units typically do not need to be covered, those whose outdoor unit is directly under an overhang or in a position where debris can easily accumulate may find an HVAC-specific breathable cover handy.

Additional North Carolina Home Winterization Tips

These additional tasks can lessen the heating burden of your HVAC system.

Seal Windows and Doors

Your heater can only do so much when cold air is constantly seeping into your home. Even a small draft can force your HVAC system to work harder to keep the indoor temperature steady.

By sealing up these areas, you can prevent energy loss and make your home more comfortable.

Try these methods for keeping drafts out:

• Weatherstripping: Apply around doors and windows to seal out air leaks.
• Window film insulation: This clear film can be applied to windows and helps create an extra barrier against the cold.
• Door sweeps: Attach these to the bottoms of exterior doors to block chilly drafts.

Test Your Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors

Winter means your heating system is running more frequently, which can increase the risk of carbon monoxide leaks. Make sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors on each floor of your home, especially near bedrooms and close to your furnace. Check the batteries and run a test to confirm they’re operational.

The same goes for your smoke detectors. Heating equipment malfunctions can sometimes lead to fires, so it’s essential to have all safety measures in place.

Reverse Your Ceiling Fans

It may seem counterintuitive, but ceiling fans can actually help keep your home warm in the winter. Many ceiling fans have a “reverse” setting, which changes the direction of the fan blades.

By setting the fan to run clockwise at a low speed, you can gently push warm air from the ceiling down into your living space. This simple trick can make rooms feel warmer, letting you set your thermostat a degree or two lower.

Consider Adding Insulation

To stay comfortable in winter, your heating system must replace the warmth that escapes from your home. Proper insulation can significantly reduce this heat loss, as it creates a strong barrier that slows the movement of heat out of your home.

Adding insulation to your attic, walls, or crawl space can significantly reduce the amount of heat that escapes your home. Proper insulation keeps warm air where it belongs: inside! While it’s an investment, it pays off over time in lower energy bills and less strain on your HVAC system.

Don’t Wait Until It’s Freezing—Get Winter-Ready Today!

Winterizing your HVAC system is one of the best ways to ensure efficient performance, comfort, and safety. Not only will it help prevent breakdowns during the coldest months in Rockwell, but it will also reduce energy consumption and lower your heating bill.

Winterizing is also a smart way to prolong the life of your system, making it a worthwhile investment in your home’s long-term comfort. By taking the time to winterize your HVAC equipment, you’re setting your home up for a warm and stress-free season.

So, get a head start on winter prep with a professional tune-up, a little DIY around the house, and perhaps an upgrade or two. Contact Stout Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. at 704-633-8095 or request service online. Your heating system will thank you, and you’ll enjoy a warm, cozy home with fewer energy worries all winter.