Thursday, January 30, 2025
Winter is no longer what it used to be. Warmer winter weather is becoming increasingly common, and while that may mean less snow on your driveway, it also brings new challenges for keeping your home comfortable. For many homeowners, unseasonably warm spells can leave their HVAC systems struggling to keep up.
To keep your home cozy and your energy bills in check, it’s important to understand how warmer winter weather can affect your HVAC system—and what you can do to prepare.
The Impact of Warmer Winter Weather on Your HVAC System
Your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is designed to handle a range of temperatures. However, warmer-than-usual winters can throw your system for a loop. Here's how:
Frequent Switches Between Heating and Cooling: With temperature swings, your HVAC system might need to switch between heating and cooling more often than usual. This extra strain can wear down components and reduce overall efficiency.
Higher Indoor Humidity Levels: Warmer winter weather often brings higher humidity, which can make your home feel stuffy. If your system isn’t equipped to manage humidity, it may struggle to maintain comfort.
Energy Inefficiency: Constantly adjusting your thermostat to match unpredictable weather can lead to higher energy consumption and inflated utility bills.
Fortunately, there are simple steps you can take to ensure your HVAC system is ready to handle warmer winters while maintaining a comfortable home environment.
Tips to Prepare Your HVAC for Warmer Winters
1. Schedule Regular Maintenance
There’s no substitute for professional maintenance when it comes to keeping your HVAC system in top condition. A licensed technician can inspect your system, clean critical components, replace worn parts, and ensure everything is running efficiently. Regular maintenance can also help address minor issues before they turn into costly repairs.
2. Thermostat Settings
If you don’t already have one, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat. These devices allow you to set temperature schedules tailored to your daily routine, minimizing energy waste during milder weather. For example, you can program the thermostat to lower heating (or even switch to cooling) during unseasonably warm afternoons while maintaining a cozy temperature in the mornings and evenings.
3. Check and Replace Air Filters
Dirty air filters can restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder and reducing its effectiveness. Check your filters monthly and replace them if they’re dirty or clogged, ensuring proper airflow and better air quality.
4. Seal Air Leaks
Warmer winter weather means your HVAC system may spend just as much time cooling your home as heating it. To keep your energy bills manageable, ensure your home is properly sealed. Inspect windows, doors, and ducts for leaks and seal them with weatherstripping or caulking as needed. Proper sealing can improve efficiency and make temperature control more consistent.
5. Invest in a Dehumidifier
If you notice that your home feels damp or stuffy during warm winter spells, high humidity may be the culprit. Adding a dehumidifier and sealing the crawl space can help regulate humidity levels, keeping your indoor air comfortable, and healthier, reducing strain on your system.
6. Monitor Your System’s Performance
Keep an eye (and ear) out for warning signs that your HVAC system may not be performing at its best. Unusual noises or unexpectedly high energy bills are all signs it’s time to call a professional for an inspection.
7. Consider Upgrading Your System
If your HVAC system is more than 12-15 years old, you may want to consider upgrading to a modern, energy-efficient system. Newer systems are better equipped to handle variable weather conditions and can save you money on energy costs in the long run.
Why Proper HVAC Care Matters
Preparing your HVAC system for warmer winter weather is about more than just comfort. It’s about protecting your investment, extending the lifespan of your system, and making your home more energy-efficient. With proper care, your HVAC system can withstand even the most unpredictable seasons, keeping you and your loved ones comfortable all year long.
Partner with Experts You Can Trust
At Simmons One Hour Heating and Air, we understand the challenges homeowners face with changing weather patterns. Our team of experienced professionals is here to help you get the most out of your HVAC system. Whether you need maintenance, repairs, or just a little advice, we’ve got you covered.
Don’t wait until the weather changes again—schedule your HVAC restoration today and enjoy peace of mind all winter long.
Stay cozy (or cool!) no matter what the forecast has in store!
GM, Simmons One Hour Heating and Air
With a career spanning over two decades in the HVAC industry, Derek Cole has climbed his way to becoming General Manager of Simmons One Hour. His impressive journey was recognized by News magazine who awarded him Top 40 under 40 honors, as well as Entrepreneur Magazine's Franchise Player Spotlight feature. Notable networks such as CBS, FOX and NBC have also featured him discussing home comfort tips on their programs while publications like Huffington Post and Bloomberg Business highlight his success story with One Hour Heating & Air Conditioning® .
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