Your Ultimate HVAC Winter Maintenance Checklist

Even though Texas winters aren’t as harsh as in other places, temperatures can still drop low enough to make indoor heating necessary. Preparing your commercial HVAC system for winter helps keep energy costs down and ensures that the system is working properly when you need it most.

Here’s a simple guide on how commercial business owners can get their HVAC systems winter-ready, with practical tips to make sure your heating system can handle the change in season.

1. Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection

The first step is to arrange a professional inspection of your HVAC system. In Texas, it’s important to have an HVAC expert check the heating part of your system, which might not get as much use during the rest of the year. HVAC professionals know exactly what to look for and can find small issues that may turn into bigger problems later. They’ll check for things like:

Leaks in the ductwork
Issues with the thermostat
Proper airflow throughout the system
Strange noises or signs of wear

Even if your system seems to be working fine, an inspection helps catch any potential problems before the cooler weather sets in.

2. Replace or Clean Air Filters

Air filters should be changed every few months, but it’s especially important to do this before winter. Clean filters help the HVAC system run more efficiently and improve the air quality in your building. Dirty filters make it harder for the system to push air through, which can cause the system to work harder and lead to higher energy bills.

Replacing or cleaning air filters is a simple task, but if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, you can always ask your HVAC technician to take care of it during the inspection.

3. Check the Thermostat Settings

As winter approaches, you’ll likely want to adjust your thermostat settings to keep indoor temperatures warm and comfortable. In Texas, winter days can still be mild, but the evenings can get cold, so having a programmable thermostat can help you save on energy costs. A programmable thermostat lets you set different temperatures for different times of the day, like lowering the heat at night when the building is unoccupied.

It’s also a good idea to make sure the thermostat itself is working properly. If it seems like the temperature in your building doesn’t match the thermostat setting, it might be time to replace or recalibrate it.

4. Inspect and Clean Vents and Ducts

Over time, dust and debris can build up in the HVAC vents and ductwork. This can block airflow, making your system less efficient. Before winter, have your vents and ducts checked and cleaned if necessary. This is a job best left to HVAC professionals because it requires special tools and knowledge to do it right.

Keeping the ductwork clean ensures that warm air can move easily throughout your building, which makes the system run more smoothly and keeps energy costs down.

5. Check for Drafts and Air Leaks

Texas buildings might not be as sealed up for winter as buildings in colder climates, but checking for drafts and air leaks can still help. Walk around the building and look for areas where cold air can sneak in, such as:

Around doors and windows
Cracks in the walls
Gaps around pipes and wiring

Sealing up these areas with weather stripping or caulk can help keep the warm air inside and the cold air outside. This makes the building more comfortable while reducing the load on your HVAC system.

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6. Consider Upgrading to a Smart Thermostat

If your building still has an older thermostat, think about upgrading to a smart thermostat before winter hits. Smart thermostats can learn your schedule and automatically adjust the temperature to save energy when no one is around.

In Texas, where winter temperatures can vary widely, smart thermostats can help you maintain a comfortable indoor environment without wasting energy. Some smart thermostats can even be controlled remotely from a smartphone, so you can adjust settings if the weather changes suddenly.

7. Test the Heater Before It Gets Cold

Don’t wait until the first cold front hits to turn on the heater. Test it early to make sure it’s working properly. Turn the heat on and let it run for a few minutes. You might notice a slight burning smell at first—this is normal as dust burns off the heating elements. If the smell doesn’t go away after a few minutes or you hear strange noises, it’s a good idea to call an HVAC professional to check it out.

8. Maintain the Outdoor Unit

Your HVAC system’s outdoor unit can also benefit from a little attention before winter arrives. In Texas, outdoor units are exposed to dust, leaves, and debris that can build up during the year. Make sure the area around the unit is clear and free of debris, and gently wash off any dirt or dust from the unit’s exterior.

For more thorough cleaning, especially inside the unit, an HVAC professional can help. Regular HVAC winter maintenance of the outdoor unit keeps the system running efficiently and extends its lifespan.

9. Inspect Insulation

Insulation plays a big role in keeping your building warm in the winter. If your insulation is old or damaged, it may not be doing its job well. Have a professional check the insulation in areas like:

Attics
Basements
Around ductwork

Adding more insulation or replacing old insulation can help keep warm air inside and reduce the amount of work your HVAC system has to do.

10. Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors

If your HVAC system uses natural gas for heating, you should have carbon monoxide detectors installed throughout the building. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can be dangerous if it builds up in enclosed spaces. Make sure your detectors are working and replace batteries if needed. It’s a good idea to test these detectors regularly to ensure safety during the winter months.

11. Know When It’s Time for an HVAC Upgrade

Older HVAC systems may not work as efficiently as newer models, especially if they’re more than 10-15 years old. If you’ve been dealing with frequent repairs or notice that your energy bills keep going up, it might be time to consider an upgrade.

Newer HVAC systems are designed to be more energy-efficient and can help you save on energy costs in the long run. An HVAC professional can help you decide if an upgrade is necessary and guide you in choosing the right system for your building.

12. Schedule Regular HVAC Maintenance Throughout the Year

While getting your HVAC system ready for the chilly temps with HVAC winter maintenance is important, regular maintenance throughout the year can help keep your system in top shape. Schedule routine inspections in the spring and fall to catch any problems early and keep your system running efficiently.

Texas weather can be unpredictable, with hot summers and chilly winters. By keeping up with regular maintenance, you can be prepared for whatever the weather brings.

The Bottom Line

Preparing your HVAC system for winter doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By performing regular HVAC winter maintenance and scheduling regular check-ups with a professional, you can make sure your building stays warm and comfortable all season long.

HVAC experts are there to help keep things running smoothly, so don’t hesitate to call them in when needed.

Keep Your HVAC System Running Smoothly All Winter Long

Make sure your business stays comfortable no matter how cold it gets. Call Facility Response Group today for expert HVAC winter maintenance and repair in Dallas, TX. Our team is ready to help you prepare your system for winter, saving you money and keeping your building warm.