Winter snowstorms can create big headaches for homeowners, from freezing pipes to a home that suddenly feels like an icebox. As the cold sets in, now is the time to make sure your home heating system is ready to handle whatever winter throws your way.

Before we jump into actionable tips, let’s take a closer look at common heating system problems caused by skipped maintenance—and why a little preparation now can save a lot of trouble later.

Common Home Heating System Problems

Before diving into actionable tips, it helps to understand the problems that can arise when heating system maintenance is neglected. Even small oversights—like skipping a filter change or delaying a routine inspection—can turn into major issues once winter hits and your furnace has to work harder to keep your home warm.

Here are some common problems caused by neglected heating system maintenance:

Uneven airflow and temperature
Dirty heater filters
Broken thermostat
Frozen pipes
Carbon monoxide leaks
Faulty pilot light
Malfunctioning heat pump

Now think about a significant winter snowstorm barreling down on you. Are you ready? Is your furnace?

Winter Prep Steps for Your Home Heating System

Before diving into these DIY steps, it’s worth understanding why they matter. Winter puts extra strain on your heating system, and simple measures—like sealing drafts, clearing vents, or checking insulation—can improve efficiency, safety, and comfort. These easy actions can help keep your home heating system running smoothly all season.

Here are more winter preparation steps to ensure your heating system is ready for a snowstorm.

Check Your Home’s Insulation. Look for drafts around windows and doors, and seal up any air leaks. Check your attic to ensure the right amount of insulation.
Keep Vents Clear. You may think it’s no big deal when your kids throw their clothes over the vents (or when you warm your socks on them). Still, it’s imperative to keep them clean to keep airflow moving; this helps vents reach the desired temperature and prevents overheating.
Consider Investing in a Generator. Power could go out during a snowstorm, so you might consider getting a generator to keep your HVAC system working. Ask a technician for help in choosing the right one.
Check Your Thermostat. Do a quick inspection to ensure it’s reading your temperature right. For added convenience and efficiency, consider a programmable or smart thermostat. They can adjust settings automatically, helping you save energy and lower your bills.
Keep Extra Air Filters Around. When it’s frigid outside, your heating system works harder and longer, which can cause air filters to clog faster. A dirty filter reduces airflow, makes your heater work less efficiently, and can even shorten its lifespan. Keeping a few extra filters on hand ensures you can replace them promptly and keep your home heating system running smoothly all winter. For more details on choosing and maintaining the right air filters for your home heating system, check out this helpful guide from Black Diamond Experts: Furnace Air Filters 101: What You Need to Know. It’s a great reference for understanding filter types, replacement schedules, and how they impact your system’s efficiency.

Schedule Routine Maintenance for Your Home Heating System

It’s a good idea to get a maintenance check of your heating system to ensure all is working correctly and no issues found. It’s better to be proactive than to be caught in a historic snowstorm when your heating goes out. An HVAC specialist comes out and does a thorough inspection and checks your furnace, filter, thermostat, and more. They’ll make sure your home is winter-ready.

Call Black Diamond Experts

Now is the time to contact our expert technicians to help you prepare for the coming winter. With over a decade of experience serving Salt Lake, Ogden, Orem, St. George, and surrounding areas, Black Diamond Experts has a team of skilled HVAC, plumbing, and electrical professionals ready to ensure your home heating system is winter-ready. We offer 24/7 emergency service, so you can count on us even during weekends or after hours.

Schedule an appointment for us to inspect your furnace and ensure you’re system-ready for any snowstorm that comes your way. Call us today!