Winter HVAC Maintenance

It is just as important as summer.

While most people only think about their HVAC maintenance in the warmer months, cold weather also puts your HVAC system to the test, and it is important to remember that it can't heat your home efficiently if it isn't cared for correctly.


Without proper winter HVAC maintenance, your heating system can drive up energy bills or break down when you need it the most - like during those unpredictable cold snaps we sometimes experience in the midwest. Regular maintenance ensures your system runs safely, efficiently, and reliably throughout the winter months.

Picture of a thermometer showing cold temperatures

Why Winter HVAC Maintenance Is Important

Your heating system works harder during winter than at any other time of year. Neglecting maintenance can lead to performance issues, safety concerns, and unexpected breakdowns that most often lead to costly repairs.


Benefits of Regular Winter HVAC Maintenance:

  • Improved energy efficiency
  • Lower monthly heating costs
  • Reduced risk of system failure
  • Extended equipment lifespan
  • Improved indoor air quality
  • Safer system operation


Proper maintenance helps your heating system perform at its best while protecting your investment and keeping your wallet safe from costly repairs - something nobody is a fan of.

Outdoor HVAC unit covered in snow

Essential Winter HVAC Maintenance Tips

1. Change or Clean Your Air Filter Regularly

A dirty air filter restricts airflow, forcing your heating system to work harder and reducing efficiency. It can also worsen indoor air quality, leading to worse allergy symptoms that one may already be experiencing due to the weather.


JF Denney Suggests That Homeowners:

  • Replace their air filters every 1–3 months.
  • Check their air filters monthly during periods of heavy use.
  • Replace their air filters more frequently if they have pets, allergies, or dust issues.


2. Schedule a Professional HVAC Tune-Up

Annual winter HVAC maintenance by a licensed professional is essential for safe and efficient operation. That's why JF Denney employs the most experienced technicians, providing our customers with peace of mind that, when we leave, their issues will be gone.


A professional tune-up typically includes:

  • Inspecting the heat exchanger for cracks or damage.
  • Testing the system safety controls.
  • Cleaning the burners and the internal components.
  • Checking the thermostat calibration.
  • Inspecting the electrical connections.
  • Ensuring proper airflow and system performance.


3. Keep Vents and Registers Clear

Blocked vents restrict airflow and can cause uneven heating throughout your home, along with higher energy bills. Proper airflow helps maintain consistent temperatures and improves system efficiency.


Make sure that:

  • Furniture, rugs, and curtains are not blocking air vents.
  • All supply and return registers are open for air to flow and circulate freely.


4. Seal Air Leaks and Improve Insulation

Air leaks and poor insulation allow heat to escape, forcing your HVAC system to work overtime. Sealing leaks and upgrading insulation helps reduce heat loss, lower energy bills, and improve overall comfort during the cold winter months.


Common areas where air leaks can be found include:

  • Doors and windows
  • Attics and crawl spaces
  • Ductwork connections


5. Use a Programmable or Smart Thermostat

Thermostat settings play a major role in winter energy efficiency. Smart thermostats learn your habits, optimize heating schedules, and help reduce energy usage without sacrificing comfort.


Recommended strategies include:

  • Lowering the temperature by 5-10 degrees when you’re asleep or away.
  • Avoiding drastic temperature changes (i.e., extreme heat when it's cold out).
  • Using programmable or smart thermostats for automated control.


6. Keep Outdoor Units Clear (Heat Pump Systems)

If your home uses a heat pump, the outdoor unit must remain clear to function properly.


Be sure to:

  • Clear snow, ice, and debris after storms
  • Maintain 18–24 inches of space around the unit
  • Avoid piling snow near the system
HVAC system covered in ice.

Signs Your HVAC System Needs Attention

Contact a professional HVAC technician if you notice:


Uneven heating or cold spots

If some rooms in your home feel noticeably colder than others, your HVAC system may not be distributing heat properly. This could be due to things such as poor insulation, blocked vents, dirty air filters, or even just the age of your HVAC system. JF Denney's trusted technicians can help you pinpoint the cause and get it fixed quickly.


Rising energy bills without increased usage

Heating habits stayed the same, but your energy bills are increasing? Most often, this is a sign that your system has begun to lose its efficiency. Some of the causes of this can include dirty filters, failing parts, air leaks, or aging furnaces. JF Denney can help diagnose the issue and get your energy bills back to normal. 


Strange noises such as banging or rattling

It is not normal for your HVAC system to be loud or to make unusual noises. If you are hearing any of these sounds, it means that your unit needs immediate attention.


  • Banging or Popping sounds could indicate dirty burners or delayed ignition.
  • Rattling sounds can point to panels being loose or internal components coming free.
  • Squealing sounds can mean that the unit is running on worn belts or the motor is having issues.


Burning or musty odors

While some odors are typically normal when you switch from air conditioning to heating, smells that linger or are very strong and off-putting can mean that the system is having issues. Burning smells can indicate that the system has dust buildup or has components that are overheating, while musty odors can be a sign of mold or mildew residing in either the system or the ductwork. These can bring up many different safety issues while also negatively impacting the quality of the indoor air and the health of the homeowner and their family.


Frequent cycling on and off

If you are hearing your HVAC system continuously turning on and off, it is a sign that something isn't working correctly. The causes of this could be anything from the thermostat not working to dirty air filters to the system being the improper size for the space. Contact JF Denney if you are experiencing this problem so that our technicians can help prevent your energy bills from increasing and protect the lifespan of your system.


Poor indoor air quality

Did you know that your HVAC system plays a major role in maintaining the quality of your indoor air during the winter? This is because homes tend to be sealed more tightly, with fewer open windows and doors to allow fresh air to flow in. Some signs that your HVAC system isn't helping your air quality include excess dust buildup, increased allergies, dry air, and lingering smells that disrupt everyday life. JF Denney can help pinpoint whether this is because you need new filters or if you have inadequate ventilation in your home.


Homeowners can work to prevent system failures by regularly scheduling maintenance on their HVAC system, especially before the weather changes from warm to cold!

Logo

Why You Should Choose JF Denney

For more than 60 Years, JF Denney has been a top leader in plumbing and HVAC in the Kansas City Area. Being a family-owned and local company, we are committed to sending our trustworthy technicians to provide top-notch service to our customers and saving them money where it counts the most. Contact JF Denney for all of your plumbing and HVAC needs -- We work hard to earn your referral!