Top 5 HVAC Maintenance Tasks Every Homeowner Should Do Before Winter

Winter has a way of sneaking up on us. One week you’re enjoying cool fall evenings, and the next you’re reaching for that thermostat. The last thing you want is to discover your heating system isn’t ready when you need it most. A little prep work now can save you from breakdowns, high energy bills, or worse – spending a freezing night waiting for an emergency repair. Here are five simple but important tasks every homeowner should tackle before winter rolls in.

1. Change Out Your Air Filter

This one’s quick, easy, and often overlooked. A clean filter helps your system run smoothly, keeps dust out of your home, and prevents unnecessary strain on your furnace. If you haven’t swapped yours in the last couple of months, now’s the time. In fact, we highly recommend changing your filters every 1-3 months.

2. Clear the Area Around Your Furnace and Vents

Your furnace needs room to breathe. Boxes, storage bins, and even laundry baskets can block airflow and become fire hazards. The same goes for vents inside your home. Make sure furniture or rugs aren’t covering them. Especially as you start to bring down all your holiday decor! Clear space equals better airflow and safer operation.

3. Test Your Thermostat

Don’t wait until the first frost to find out your thermostat isn’t working. Switch it over to heat mode and make sure it’s responding properly. If your home isn’t warming up as it should, it could be as simple as new batteries – or it might be time to consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for better control.

4. Schedule a Professional Tune-Up

There’s only so much you can do on your own. A licensed HVAC technician (like the ones here at Summers) will clean, inspect, and adjust parts of your system you can’t easily reach. This step not only improves efficiency but also catches small problems before they turn into mid-winter emergencies. Think of it as a check-up for your furnace’s health. If you’re in Indiana, give Summers a call.

5. Check Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors

Any heating system that burns fuel carries the risk of carbon monoxide leaks. Make sure your detectors have fresh batteries and are working properly. It’s a small step that adds huge peace of mind for your family’s safety. Remember, carbon monoxide is a deadly, odorless gas. It’s not something to mess with! So if you even suspect a leak at all, contact someone right away.

Contact Summers Plumbing Heating & Cooling For All Your HVAC Maintenance Needs in Peru, IN Today

Taking care of your HVAC system before the cold hits isn’t just about comfort. It’s also about safety, savings, and avoiding unnecessary stress. Knock these five tasks off your to-do list now, and you’ll head into winter knowing your home is ready to handle whatever the season brings. Contact Summers to schedule your HVAC maintenance in Peru, IN today.