Cold Weather Performance and Safety
Winter places unique demands on heating systems while creating hazardous conditions. Proper winter maintenance ensures safe, efficient operation during the most critical months.
Monthly Winter Maintenance Tasks:
January Heating System Check
1.
Carbon Monoxide Safety
- Test CO detectors monthly
- Check for ice blocking exhaust vents
- Monitor for symptoms of CO poisoning
- Keep vents clear of snow and ice
2. Filter Changes (Every 30-45 days)
- Heating systems run continuously in winter
- Filters clog faster in closed-house conditions
- Change filters more frequently if pets/allergies
- Consider upgrading to higher MERV rating
3. Humidity Management
- Maintain 30-40% relative humidity
- Use whole-house humidifier if available
- Monitor for condensation on windows
- Address excessive dryness or moisture
February System Performance Review
Mid-Winter Performance Check:
- Compare energy bills to previous winters
- Note any changes in system operation
- Monitor for uneven heating throughout home
- Schedule maintenance if problems detected
Common Winter Problems:
- Heat pump struggling in extreme cold
- Frozen condensate drains
- Ice buildup on outdoor equipment
- Excessive cycling or runtime
The $300 Annual Investment That Saves $3,000 in Repairs
Professional maintenance catches problems before they become expensive failures while optimizing system performance for maximum efficiency and lifespan.
Spring Professional Service (April-May): $150-$250
Air Conditioning Preparation:
- Refrigerant level check and adjustment
- Electrical connection inspection and tightening
- Condenser and evaporator coil cleaning
- Blower motor lubrication and belt adjustment
- Thermostat calibration and control testing
- Safety control inspection and testing
- Condensate drain cleaning and treatment
- System performance testing and optimization
Fall Professional Service (September-October): $150-$250
Heating System Preparation:
- Heat exchanger inspection for cracks
- Gas pressure and connection testing
- Combustion analysis and adjustment
- Venting system inspection and cleaning
- Motor lubrication and belt replacement
- Safety control testing and adjustment
- Thermostat calibration and programming
- Carbon monoxide testing and leak detection
Choosing a Professional Service Provider:
Red Flags to Avoid:
- Door-to-door sales tactics
- Pressure for immediate equipment replacement
- Unusually low prices (often hidden costs)
- No proper licensing or insurance
- Poor online reviews or BBB rating
What to Look For:
- Licensed and insured technicians
- Transparent pricing structure
- Detailed service agreements
- Emergency service availability
- Manufacturer certifications
- Strong local reputation
Service Agreement Benefits:
- Priority scheduling for repairs
- Discounts on parts and labor
- Regular maintenance reminders
- Extended warranties on work performed
- Annual cost typically 20-30% less than individual services