12 Days of HVAC Winter Care: Keep Your Home Cozy All Season Long
Winter in Chico is all about crisp mornings, cozy evenings, and—let’s be honest—turning up the thermostat more often than we’d like. If you want your furnace running smoothly through every cold snap, now is the perfect time to give your HVAC system some holiday cheer.
To help you stay warm and energy-efficient, here are Bob’s Air Repair’s “12 Days of HVAC Winter Care”—simple steps that protect your system and save money all season long.
Day 1: Change Your Air Filter
Just like a fresh start to the season, a clean filter helps your system breathe easier. Changing it every 1–3 months prevents dust buildup and keeps your furnace running efficiently.
Day 2: Clear the Area Around Your Furnace
Give your furnace the gift of space! Remove boxes, storage bins, and clutter around your HVAC unit to improve airflow and keep your home safer.
Day 3: Test Your Thermostat
If your house feels colder than it should, your thermostat may be the culprit. Make sure it’s reading temperatures correctly—and consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better winter control.
Day 4: Seal Drafts Around Windows & Doors
A warm home isn’t just about the furnace—it’s also about keeping the warm air in. Add weatherstripping or caulk to prevent drafts and reduce the workload on your HVAC system.
Day 5: Inspect Your Vents and Registers
Blocked vents reduce airflow and make your furnace work harder. Keep furniture and holiday décor clear of vents to allow heat to circulate freely.
Day 6: Clean Your Air Ducts (or Schedule an Inspection)
If it’s been a few years, dust and debris may be restricting airflow. A duct inspection can reveal leaks or blockages that impact comfort and energy efficiency during winter.
Day 7: Check Your Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Winter is prime furnace season—making carbon monoxide safety a must. Test detectors, replace batteries, and ensure you have enough units throughout your home.
Day 8: Listen for Unusual Furnace Sounds
Bangs, rattles, or squeaks can signal worn parts or loose components. Catching issues early can prevent major repairs later in the season.
Day 9: Verify Proper Humidity Levels
Chico winters can get dry. Adding a humidifier can help your furnace run more efficiently and keep your home feeling warmer with less energy.
Day 10: Check Your Outdoor Unit (for Heat Pump Systems)
Clear leaves, snow, and debris from around outdoor HVAC components. A clean area ensures proper airflow and prevents performance issues.
Day 11: Review Your Energy Bills
A sudden spike often hints at inefficiencies or a furnace issue. Comparing month-to-month usage helps you spot problems early.
Day 12: Schedule a Professional Winter Tune-Up
The best gift you can give your home? A properly maintained HVAC system. A licensed technician from Bob’s Air Repair will check electrical components, inspect the heat exchanger, test safety controls, and ensure your furnace is running at peak performance.
Wrap Up the Season With Comfort & Efficiency
Following these 12 simple steps helps protect your HVAC system from winter strain, reduces energy costs, and keeps your family warm all season long.
If you want peace of mind going into the coldest months, schedule your winter furnace maintenance with Bob’s Air Repair. We’re Chico’s trusted experts for reliable, affordable heating services—here when you need us most.
Stay warm, stay safe, and Merry Christmas from the Bob’s Air Repair family!