Here are five proactive strategies to prepare your heating system for winter’s imminent chill.
By Angie Hicks
Ask Angi
While winter may still seem distant, early fall presents an opportune moment to give your heating system the attention it deserves. As the first frost rolls in, HVAC professionals find their schedules quickly booked. Proactive action now allows you to sneak in a service call before the deluge of requests. Consider it a warm-up for your system ahead of its busiest season.
Here are five savvy steps to ensure your heater is primed for the coming cold.
1. Replace Your Filter
If there’s one task you prioritize for your HVAC system, let it be keeping its filter fresh as per the manufacturer’s recommendations. The filter’s primary role is to prevent dust and debris from invading your system. Over time, however, it can become clogged, drastically reducing airflow. This inefficiency compels your heater to work harder, thus consuming more energy and suffering accelerated wear. Think of a dirty filter as akin to attempting to breathe through a tightly wrapped scarf—possible, but far from efficient. Neglecting this maintenance can lead to costly damages, much like deferring an oil change in your car. By regularly changing your filter, you’ll enjoy enhanced performance and reduced energy bills.
2. Schedule a Professional Inspection
Conducting biannual inspections, once for heating and once for cooling, is a best practice for HVAC maintenance. Right now, securing an inspection is paramount. An autumn assessment—usually about $100—lets a technician fine-tune moving components, check electrical connections, and catch minor repairs before they burgeon into costly disasters. Furthermore, many manufacturer warranties actually stipulate documented evidence of regular maintenance by a licensed technician. Skipping this step could land you in hot water when breakdowns occur. If you’ve entered into a service agreement with an HVAC provider, chances are these inspections are already included in your plan.
3. Weatherproof Your Home
Your heater can’t perform miracles; if warm air escapes faster than it can be replaced, you’re fighting a losing battle. Common culprits like air leaks around windows, doors, and pipe accesses can funnel heat outdoors. Applying fresh weatherstripping, sealing gaps with caulk, and considering plastic window film can help mitigate heat loss effectively. And do not overlook the attic—drafts there can siphon away warmth and funds throughout the winter. Dedicating a weekend to seal these leaks can yield years of savings on your heating bills. You can undertake this DIY project, or hire a handyman to tackle it for a few hundred dollars, depending on your house’s size.
4. Guard Against Carbon Monoxide
Fuel-burning appliances, including your furnace, have the potential to release carbon monoxide—a colorless, odorless gas that’s utterly lethal if it accumulates indoors. While an inspection can reveal leaks, it’s prudent to install your own carbon monoxide detectors. Look for models certified by Underwriters Laboratories, ensure they are either battery-powered or feature battery backup, and remember to test them regularly. Position these alarms in proximity to bedrooms, ensuring they wake you up if danger arises during the night.
5. Upgrade Your Thermostat
If you’re still relying on an outdated manual thermostat, you’re likely losing money unnecessarily. The EPA states that a programmable thermostat can decrease heating bills by anywhere from 10 to 30 percent when used properly. Entry-level programmable models can be purchased and installed for about $100 to $150, while smart thermostats, which can be controlled via an app, average around $250. Regardless of your selection, it’s a minor investment that can recoup itself within a single heating season.
With proactive measures now, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle winter’s chill head-on, not to mention experience the tranquility that comes from residing in a warm, safe, and efficient home.
Tweet your home care inquiries using #AskingAngi, and we’ll strive to answer them in an upcoming column. Copyright 2025 Ask Angi. Visit angi.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
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