As colder weather approaches the Triangle, it’s the perfect time to make sure your home’s heating system is ready for the season ahead. A little preventive care now can save you from costly breakdowns and uncomfortable nights later. To help you prepare, the team at Comfort Pro put together this easy-to-follow winter HVAC checklist.
Change or Clean Your Air Filters
Clogged or dirty filters make your furnace or heat pump work harder, which can lead to higher utility bills and reduced indoor air quality. Check your air filter monthly and replace it every one to three months, depending on usage.
If you notice uneven airflow or persistent dust, it might be time for a heating repair or system inspection. For extra guidance on improving efficiency, visit the U.S. Department of Energy’s HVAC maintenance guide.
Inspect and Clean Your Vents
Take a few minutes to vacuum your vents and registers to remove dust and pet hair. Make sure furniture, rugs, or curtains aren’t blocking airflow. Proper ventilation ensures your system doesn’t have to overwork to heat your home evenly.
If some rooms still feel colder than others, our heating maintenance service can identify underlying airflow issues before they become bigger problems.
Test Your Thermostat
Before temperatures drop for good, switch your thermostat to “heat” and test the system. Set your desired temperature and confirm that warm air is blowing through the vents. If your thermostat isn’t responding properly or struggles to maintain consistent comfort, it may be time to upgrade.
Explore our heating replacement options, or consider installing a smart thermostat to save energy automatically.
Schedule Professional Maintenance
An annual tune-up is one of the best ways to ensure your heating system runs safely and efficiently all winter long. During a maintenance visit, a Comfort Pro technician will clean and inspect your furnace or heat pump, tighten electrical connections, check airflow, and test all major components.
Our heating maintenance services are designed to prevent breakdowns and maximize performance—so you can stay comfortable no matter how cold it gets in Raleigh, Cary, or Apex.
For more reasons why regular tune-ups matter, check out the Energy.gov Heating Maintenance Tips.
Clear Around Outdoor Units
If you have a heat pump, make sure the outdoor unit is free from debris, leaves, or ice buildup. Good airflow helps your system operate efficiently even on chilly days. Trim nearby shrubs and gently rinse the unit if it’s covered in dirt.
If your system struggles to keep up, our heat pump repair and replacement experts can help restore reliable heating performance fast.
Seal Leaks and Add Insulation
Even the best HVAC system can’t perform well if warm air is escaping through cracks and gaps. Check windows, doors, and attic spaces for drafts and seal them with weather stripping or caulk. Adding insulation is another great way to improve efficiency and lower heating costs.
For practical DIY guidance, visit ENERGY STAR’s guide to sealing and insulating your home.
Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors
If your home uses natural gas or propane for heating, functioning carbon monoxide detectors are essential. Test them now and replace the batteries if necessary. If your furnace hasn’t been serviced in a while, schedule a safety inspection with Comfort Pro for peace of mind.
Learn more about carbon monoxide safety from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Consider Upgrading Your System
If your furnace or heat pump is more than 10–15 years old, upgrading to a newer, energy-efficient model could save you significantly on heating costs. New systems heat more effectively, use less energy, and qualify for manufacturer rebates or tax credits.
Explore heating replacement options with our team, and we’ll help you choose the right system for your home and budget.
Stay Warm and Worry-Free This Winter
A little HVAC prep goes a long way toward ensuring your comfort during North Carolina’s colder months. Whether you need a quick tune-up, a new heat pump installation, or a full heating system replacement, Comfort Pro is here to help homeowners throughout the Triangle stay cozy all winter long.
Schedule your seasonal maintenance today and enjoy dependable comfort no matter how cold it gets.
