Ohio winters can be tough on your home and your budget. Cold snaps, wind, and snow push heating systems hard. A little prep now prevents breakdowns when you need heat most.
Good heating maintenance boosts comfort and safety. It also helps lower monthly bills. A clean, tuned system uses less energy and runs more reliably.
Many Ohio homes have gas furnaces. Others use heat pumps or dual-fuel systems. No matter your setup, the basics still apply. Airflow, safety checks, and smart settings matter.
As your trusted Ohio HVAC partner, B Rico Mechanical is here to help. We deliver heating and cooling services you can count on. Use the tips below to get ready for winter. You will feel the difference on the coldest nights.
A fall tune-up is the best way to protect your system. It also protects your family’s comfort. Think of it like changing oil before a long road trip.
During a tune-up, a trained tech checks safety and performance. We clean parts that collect dust and soot. We test the system under real conditions. This helps us catch small issues early.
Here is what we inspect and service during a furnace tune-up:
For heat pumps, we clean the outdoor coil and check defrost. We test refrigerant levels and electrical parts. We make sure the system can handle freezing weather.
A tune-up helps in three big ways. It improves efficiency, which lowers energy bills. It extends the life of your equipment. It also reduces the chance of a no-heat emergency.
Plan your appointment early in fall. That timing gives you options. If we find a part that needs attention, you will have time to fix it. We can also discuss energy-efficient HVAC systems if your unit is aging.
If you smell gas, hear loud bangs, or feel weak heat, call right away. Those are signs you may need furnace repair, not just maintenance. Our Ohio HVAC team will diagnose the problem and explain your options.
Airflow is the lifeblood of your heating system. Poor airflow forces your furnace to work too hard. That wastes energy and can cause breakdowns.
Check your filter monthly during heating season. Replace it every one to three months. Homes with pets, allergies, or renovations may need more frequent changes.
Most filters have an arrow on the frame. Point the arrow toward the furnace or the airflow direction. This simple step helps keep dust and debris out of your system.
You will see different ratings on filter packages. MERV ratings show how well a filter catches particles. A MERV 8 is a good basic filter for most homes. A MERV 11 to 13 can help with allergies. Very high ratings can restrict airflow on older systems. Ask us what works best for your equipment.
Do not forget supply vents and return grilles. Walk your home and check each one. Make sure furniture, rugs, and curtains do not block them. Blocked vents make rooms feel uneven. They can also overheat your furnace.
Vacuum the grilles to remove dust. Remove floor registers and clean the edges. If you see heavy buildup inside ducts, ask us to take a look. We can advise you on next steps.
Good airflow reduces stress on your system. It helps air mix evenly in each room. It also supports cleaner indoor air. That is good for comfort and health.
Many Ohio homes have a humidifier attached to the furnace. Replace the water panel, also called the pad, each fall. Turn the humidifier on after your first heat cycle. Set the humidity around 30 to 40 percent. Proper humidity helps you feel warmer at lower temperatures.
Your thermostat is the brain of your heating system. A few smart settings can save money all winter. They also keep your home comfortable and steady.
Start by replacing thermostat batteries if you have them. Then check the location. Thermostats should not sit near drafts, lamps, or heat sources. Bad placement can cause false readings.
Program a simple weekday and weekend schedule. Many Ohio HVAC pros suggest 68 to 70 degrees when you are home. Set it to 62 to 65 degrees when you sleep or are away. That small drop can cut heating costs without discomfort.
If you use a heat pump, avoid large setbacks. Big drops can trigger the backup electric heater. That uses more energy and costs more to run. Try small changes of two to three degrees instead.
Consider a smart thermostat if your system supports it. Smart models learn your routine. Many offer reminders for filter changes and service. They also show helpful energy reports. We can help you choose a model that fits your equipment.
Make sure the fan setting is on Auto, not On. Auto runs the fan only when heating is needed. This saves energy and reduces drafts.
Finally, test your system before the first deep cold. Set the thermostat a few degrees higher and listen. The system should start smoothly. Warm air should reach all rooms. If not, call us for a checkup before the rush.
If you manage a building or have multiple zones, confirm each thermostat works. Verify dampers open and close. Label zones for easy use. Balanced settings prevent hot and cold pockets and reduce strain.
Your furnace or heat pump makes heat. Your home’s envelope keeps it inside. Small leaks waste a lot of energy. Sealing up before winter can make a big difference.
Start with easy wins. Add fresh weatherstripping to drafty doors. Install door sweeps at the bottom. Seal gaps around windows with clear caulk. Use foam gaskets behind outlet covers on exterior walls.
Check your attic insulation level. Many older Ohio homes are under-insulated. Insulation levels are measured in R-value. Aim for about R-49 in the attic in our climate. Blown-in insulation is a good upgrade. It helps rooms feel less drafty.
Ductwork also matters. Leaky ducts throw away heated air. They also pull dust into your system. Look for loose joints and gaps in basements or attics. Seal small leaks with mastic or UL-181 foil tape. Do not use cloth “duct tape.” It fails in hot and cold.
If you have a high-efficiency furnace, inspect the PVC intake and exhaust pipes. Make sure joints are tight and supported. Outside terminations should be clear of debris. Keep a shovel nearby to remove snow around those pipes.
Sealing and insulating cut energy loss. Your system runs shorter cycles. That means lower bills and longer equipment life. These upgrades pair well with a fall tune-up.
Ask our team about energy audits and rebates. Many utilities offer incentives for insulation and energy-efficient HVAC systems. We are happy to guide you through the process.
Do not block combustion air openings. Gas furnaces need fresh air for safe burning. We will confirm proper airflow during your tune-up.
Safety should sit at the top of your winter prep list. A few simple checks protect your home and family all season.
Test carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. Press the test button and confirm the alarm works. Replace batteries now to be safe. Most CO detectors last five to seven years. Check the manufacture date and replace old units.
Place CO detectors on every level and near bedrooms. If you only have one, put it near sleeping areas. Remember, CO is colorless and odorless. It is vital to have alarms.
Keep the area around your furnace clear. Give it at least three feet of space on all sides. Store paint, gasoline, and cleaners elsewhere. Flammable vapors near burners are dangerous.
Look at your flue pipe and venting. Check for rust, loose joints, or soot streaks. These signs may mean poor draft. We can test and repair venting to keep you safe.
For high-efficiency furnaces, check the condensate drain. The line should be clear and pitched correctly. A clogged drain can shut down your system. It can also cause water damage.
Heat pump owners should prepare the outdoor unit. Clear leaves, grass, and branches within two feet. Make sure the unit sits level. Do not wrap the unit in plastic. Trapped moisture can damage parts. A simple top cover that breathes is fine for an AC-only condenser. Heat pumps must remain uncovered to run in winter.
If you ever smell gas, leave the home and call your gas company. Then call B Rico Mechanical for inspection and furnace repair. Your safety comes first.
How often should I schedule a heating tune-up?
Once a year is best. Early fall gives you time for repairs before severe cold.
How often should I change my furnace filter?
Check monthly and replace every one to three months. Pets, allergies, and dust may require more frequent changes.
Is it okay to close vents in unused rooms to save money?
No. Closing vents increases pressure in the ducts. That can cause leaks and overheating. It can also shorten the life of your system.
Should I cover my outdoor unit in winter?
If you have a heat pump, do not cover it. It needs to run in winter. If you have a separate AC condenser, a breathable top cover is optional. Do not wrap it tightly with plastic.
What temperature should I set in winter to save energy?
Try 68 to 70 degrees when home and awake. Lower it to 62 to 65 degrees when asleep or away. Heat pumps do better with smaller setbacks.
What if my system is more than 15 years old?
Plan ahead. Older units can fail during extreme cold. A free estimate helps you compare furnace repair and replacement. We can review options for energy-efficient HVAC systems.
Can you service my heating and also help with air conditioning maintenance?
Yes. We handle both heating and cooling. We can bundle fall heating service with spring air conditioning maintenance. That keeps you ready all year.
Winter in Ohio does not wait, and neither should your maintenance. The best time to prepare is right now. B Rico Mechanical is your local partner for trusted Ohio HVAC service. We handle tune-ups, furnace repair, heat pump service, and safety checks.
Our friendly technicians explain each step in plain language. We treat your home with care and respect. We also help you find smart upgrades that fit your budget.
Get ahead of the first cold snap today. Call B Rico Mechanical to schedule your heating tune-up. Ask about our maintenance plans and free estimates on energy-efficient HVAC systems. We will keep your home comfortable, safe, and ready for winter.
