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Frigid mountain winters can put your heating system to the test. If your home still feels chilly despite a running furnace, small adjustments can make a big difference. These tips will help you stay warm while keeping energy costs in check.
At Mountaineer Heating & Cooling, we believe in giving simple proposals, affordable pricing, and 24/7 service on a range of services. We’ve serviced northwestern North Carolina and eastern Tennessee for over 40 years. See a list of services and contact us today: 828.373.3260.
1. Seal Drafts and Insulate Your Home
Heat loss through cracks and poorly insulated areas can make your HVAC system work harder. Inspect doors and windows for gaps, then use weatherstripping or caulking to seal them. Consider adding insulation to attics, basements, and crawl spaces to prevent warm air from escaping.
2. Schedule a Winter HVAC Checkup
Routine maintenance keeps your heating system working efficiently. Before the cold sets in, a professional inspection ensures your furnace or heat pump is running at peak performance. Mountaineer Heating & Cooling offers winter system checks to help prevent breakdowns and maximize efficiency.
3. Use a Smart Thermostat
A programmable or smart thermostat helps regulate your home’s temperature without unnecessary energy waste. Set it to lower the temperature when you’re asleep or away, then raise it before you return. This keeps your home warm while reducing energy bills.
4. Let the Sun Work for You
Sunlight provides free heat during the day. Open curtains on south-facing windows to let the sun warm your space, then close them at night to trap the heat. Heavy drapes or thermal curtains add an extra layer of insulation against the cold.
5. Maximize Airflow and Ventilation
Proper airflow keeps warm air circulating efficiently. Follow these steps:
- Make sure furniture or rugs aren’t blocking vents.
- Reverse ceiling fan blades to push warm air downward.
- Keep interior doors open to allow even heat distribution.
- Change HVAC filters regularly to maintain strong airflow.
6. Consider a Ductless or Geothermal System Upgrade
Older heating systems can struggle to maintain consistent warmth. If your current setup isn’t performing efficiently, consider upgrading to a high-efficiency Trane, Bosch, or Mitsubishi system. Ductless mini-splits provide targeted heating, while geothermal systems offer long-term energy savings with exceptional reliability.
7. Get on a Maintenance Plan
Heating emergencies in the middle of winter can be stressful. A proactive maintenance plan keeps your system in top shape year-round. Seasonal checkups—like Mountaineer Heating & Cooling’s fall and winter inspections—help catch small issues before they become costly repairs. Regular tune-ups improve efficiency, extend your system’s lifespan, and ensure reliable warmth when you need it most.
When it comes to keeping your home warm and comfortable, small improvements add up. Sealing drafts, optimizing airflow, and scheduling professional maintenance can make a noticeable difference. If your heating system isn’t performing as it should, Mountaineer Heating & Cooling is here to help. Serving Boone, Blowing Rock, Banner Elk, and West Jefferson, our team ensures your home stays warm all winter long. Call today to schedule your winter checkup!
Check out other blogs:
- 5 Key Signs Your Heating System Needs Maintenance During Winter
- Heating vs. Insulation: Which One Saves More Energy?
- Your Guide to Winter HVAC Prep in Boone, NC
- Furnace vs. Heat Pump: Choosing the Right Heating Solution for Your Home
- 9 Heating Tips to Keep Your Home Warm This Winter
- 7 Powerful Ways to Save on Heating Costs This Winter