Preparing Your HVAC for Winter: Ohio Homeowner’s Guide

Winter in Northeast Cleveland is no joke. The cold, biting winds and heavy snowfall put your home’s HVAC system to the test. Take time this fall to prepare your HVAC system for winter, and you’ll prevent unexpected breakdowns and keep your energy bills in check.

8 Steps to Prepare Your HVAC System for Winter

Here are the essential steps every Ohio homeowner should take to prepare their system for cold weather.

Check & Replace the Air Filter

Your HVAC filter helps maintain good indoor air quality and system efficiency. Over time, the filter becomes clogged with dust, fibers, and other airborne debris, restricting airflow and forcing your system to work harder. Before the cold sets in, check your filter and replace it if it’s dirty. For the best performance, continue replacing your filter every one to three months throughout the year.

Adjust Your Thermostat Settings

The cooler weather means it’s time to switch from air conditioning to heating. With this transition, consider lowering the temperature a few degrees when you’re asleep or away from home to reduce energy consumption. If you have a programmable thermostat, set it to adjust the temperature automatically based on your schedule.

Inspect the Ductwork

Leaky or poorly insulated ductwork loses heat, increasing energy bills and causing uneven temperatures throughout your home. Inspect your ductwork for gaps, cracks, or loose connections. If you notice any issues, consider hiring a professional to seal and insulate your ducts.

Prep Your Whole-House Humidifier

Winter air is dry, causing irritated sinuses, itchy skin, and static electricity. A whole-house humidifier adds much-needed moisture to the air, making your home more comfortable. If you already have a humidifier, turn it on and set it to the desired humidity level — ideally between 30 and 50%. If you don’t have one, consider installing a humidifier to prevent the drying effects of winter heating.

Winterize Your Air Conditioner

The outdoor portion of your AC unit is exposed to harsh winter conditions. To protect it from snow, ice, and debris, start by clearing any obstructions around the unit. A commercial cover is unnecessary, but you can set a piece of plywood on top of the unit to keep icicles and falling snow out while still allowing airflow.

Bleed the Radiator Valves

If your home has a boiler and radiators, bleeding the radiator valves is an essential maintenance step. Air can become trapped in your radiators, causing them to heat unevenly or not at all. To bleed a radiator, turn off your heating system and open the valve slightly using a radiator key. You’ll hear a hissing sound as air escapes. Close the valve once the water starts flowing out.

Test Your Smoke Alarms & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

These devices are your first defense against fire and carbon monoxide poisoning, so monthly testing is highly recommended, especially in the winter. Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working correctly, and replace the batteries if needed.

Schedule Professional Maintenance

The final step to prepare your HVAC system for winter is to schedule a professional maintenance visit. A licensed HVAC technician can thoroughly inspect, clean, and check your furnace or boiler for developing problems. Regular maintenance extends your HVAC system’s life and helps prevent unexpected breakdowns this winter.

Schedule HVAC Services with Verne & Ellsworth Hann Today

Don’t wait until winter arrives to prepare your HVAC system — Verne & Ellsworth Hann can help you prepare today. We’re Northeast Ohio’s heating, air conditioning, boiler, and plumbing experts. Our licensed and insured technicians provide outstanding customer service and help your home stay warm and safe all winter.