5 Winter HVAC Mistakes You Might Be Making (and How to Fix Them)

When temperatures drop, your HVAC system becomes the unsung hero of your home—keeping you warm, cozy, and comfortable. But winter can also be tough on your system if you’re not giving it a little extra love.

The good news? A few simple fixes can make a big difference in your comfort, energy bills, and system lifespan. Let’s look at five common winter HVAC mistakes (and how to fix them before they cost you).

1. Forgetting to Replace Your Air Filter

Your HVAC filter is the first line of defense against dust, pet dander, and allergens. During the winter months, your system runs more frequently—and that means your filter gets dirtier, faster.

A clogged filter restricts airflow, making your system work harder (and your energy bills climb higher).

The Fix:
Change your air filter every 1–3 months, depending on your household and location. An air filter subscription from FilterTime makes it easy—your filters arrive at your doorstep right when it’s time to swap them out. No reminders, no hardware store runs.

2. Cranking the Thermostat Too High

When it’s freezing outside, it’s tempting to set your thermostat to “toasty.” But raising it too high too fast doesn’t warm your home quicker—it just makes your system overwork and wear down faster.

The Fix:
Set your thermostat a few degrees lower and use cozy layers or a space heater in high-traffic rooms. For consistent comfort, consider a programmable or smart thermostat that adjusts automatically throughout the day.

3. Ignoring Drafts and Leaks

If warm air is escaping through windows, doors, or vents, your HVAC system is basically heating the outdoors. That’s a fast way to waste energy and money.

The Fix:
Seal drafts with weatherstripping or caulk, and make sure vents and returns aren’t blocked by furniture, curtains, or rugs. A little insulation goes a long way toward keeping your home (and your energy bill) comfortable.

4. Skipping Preventative Maintenance

Your HVAC system is like your car—it needs occasional tune-ups to perform its best. Skipping maintenance can lead to costly breakdowns when you need heat the most.

The Fix:
Schedule a professional inspection before the coldest months hit. They’ll check for leaks, inspect belts, clean coils, and ensure your system is running efficiently. It’s a small investment that prevents big winter headaches.

5. Closing Too Many Vents

It might seem logical to close vents in unused rooms to save energy, but that actually throws off your system’s airflow balance. Too much pressure can lead to duct leaks and inefficiency.

The Fix:
Keep most vents open for even air distribution throughout your home. If you have rooms that always run hot or cold, have a professional check your ductwork or insulation for issues.

Keep Your HVAC Happy All Winter Long

The easiest way to protect your system (and your wallet) this winter? Stay on top of your air filter changes.

FilterTime delivers high-quality air filters on your schedule—so you never forget, never run out, and never have to guess your filter size again.

Use code SAVE15NOW to get $15 off your first order when you sign up today:
https://www.filtertime.com/air-filters/filter-type

Breathe happy all winter long.