Winter HVAC Maintenance Checklist: Keep Your Home Warm & Efficient

As temperatures drop, your heating system works harder to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. Without proper maintenance, your HVAC system can become inefficient, leading to higher energy bills, unexpected breakdowns, and costly repairs. This Winter HVAC Maintenance Checklist will help you keep your system running smoothly, improve energy efficiency, and prevent potential heating emergencies.

1. Replace or Clean Your Air Filters

One of the simplest but most important maintenance tasks is changing your air filters. A dirty filter restricts airflow, forcing your system to work harder and reducing efficiency.

Best Practices for Air Filter Maintenance:

Replace filters every one to three months, especially during peak heating season.
Use high-efficiency filters, such as HEPA filters, to improve indoor air quality.
Check filters monthly and clean or replace them as needed.

2. Schedule a Professional HVAC Inspection

A professional HVAC tune-up ensures your system is operating efficiently and helps detect small issues before they turn into expensive repairs.

What a Winter HVAC Tune-Up Includes:

Inspection and cleaning of the heat exchanger
Calibration of the thermostat
Testing for carbon monoxide leaks
Lubrication of moving parts to reduce wear and tear
Checking ductwork for leaks or blockages

Scheduling regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your heating system and reduce the risk of breakdowns. Contact ARCO Heating & Cooling today to schedule your winter HVAC inspection.

3. Optimize Your Thermostat Settings

Proper thermostat settings can help maintain comfort while reducing energy costs.

Recommended Winter Thermostat Settings:

Set your thermostat to 68°F when at home for optimal energy savings.
Lower the temperature by 7-10°F when sleeping or away to reduce heating costs.
Consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for automated temperature adjustments and energy savings.

4. Inspect and Seal Air Leaks

Even with a well-functioning HVAC system, heat loss through gaps and cracks can reduce efficiency. Sealing air leaks helps maintain consistent indoor temperatures and lowers heating costs.

How to Detect and Seal Air Leaks:

Check for drafts near windows and doors.
Inspect ductwork for visible gaps or disconnected sections.
Use weather stripping and caulk to seal gaps around doors and windows.
Consider adding insulation in the attic to prevent heat loss.

5. Clean Your Vents and Registers

Blocked or dirty vents restrict airflow, making your HVAC system work harder. Keeping them clean and unblocked improves efficiency and ensures even heating.

How to Maintain Your Vents:

Vacuum dust and debris from vents and registers.
Make sure furniture or rugs are not blocking airflow.
Wipe down grilles and covers to remove dust buildup.

6. Test Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Furnaces and heating systems that burn gas produce carbon monoxide, which is a colorless, odorless gas that can be deadly if undetected.

Carbon Monoxide Safety Tips:

Install carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home.
Replace detector batteries every six months.
Schedule an annual furnace inspection to check for gas leaks.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide exposure include dizziness, nausea, headaches, and shortness of breath. If you suspect a leak, leave the home immediately and seek professional help.

7. Keep Your Outdoor Unit Clear

If you have a heat pump or an outdoor HVAC unit, it is essential to keep it clear of debris and snow buildup to maintain performance.

How to Prevent Issues:

Remove leaves, dirt, and snow from around the unit.
Keep at least two feet of clearance around the system.
Check for frost buildup, which may indicate a defrost cycle issue.

8. Know When to Call a Professional

If your heating system is not performing as expected, it is best to call a professional before a small issue turns into a major repair.

Signs Your HVAC System Needs Attention:

Uneven or weak heating throughout the home
Unusual noises such as banging, rattling, or whistling
An unexpected increase in energy bills
Frequent cycling on and off

Schedule Your Winter HVAC Maintenance with ARCO Heating & Cooling

Winter HVAC maintenance is essential for keeping your home warm, energy-efficient, and safe. A well-maintained system not only reduces the risk of costly breakdowns but also ensures better performance throughout the colder months.

Contact ARCO Heating & Cooling to schedule a professional HVAC inspection and keep your system running at peak efficiency this winter.

Call us today to book your winter HVAC tune-up.

📞 (636) 259-3961

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The Importance of Indoor Air Quality in Transitional Seasons

By ARCO HEATING AND COOLING • April 25, 2025

How Seasonal Shifts Impact the Air You Breathe When spring turns into summer or fall shifts into winter, your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ) can change dramatically. These transitional seasons bring fluctuating temperatures, increased allergens, and different HVAC usage patterns—all of which can affect the health and comfort of your indoor environment. At Arco Heating & Cooling , we’re here to help you understand these shifts and keep your home’s air clean and comfortable year-round. What Happens to Indoor Air Quality in Transitional Seasons? More Time Indoors, More Exposure As temperatures become unpredictable, people tend to spend more time inside. While this keeps you comfortable, it also means you’re breathing indoor air more frequently—and if that air is filled with dust, pollen, or other irritants, it can take a toll on your health. Allergens Are on the Move Spring and fall are peak seasons for pollen, mold spores, and other allergens. Without proper filtration and ventilation, these particles can easily find their way indoors and linger in your HVAC system. HVAC Systems Kick Into Gear Transitional seasons often involve switching between heating and cooling. This inconsistent use of your HVAC system can lead to dust buildup in filters and ducts, impacting air quality and system efficiency. Signs of Poor Indoor Air Quality Persistent allergy symptoms Dust buildup near vents Musty or stale indoor smells Dry skin or throat irritation Excess humidity or dryness If you're experiencing any of these, it may be time to improve your indoor air quality. Arco Heating & Cooling’s Indoor Air Quality Solutions Tailored to Missouri and Illinois Homes We offer a range of products and services designed to enhance IAQ throughout transitional seasons: Air purifiers : Capture and remove airborne particles including pollen, dust, and bacteria. Humidifiers and dehumidifiers : Balance humidity levels to prevent mold growth and dry air discomfort. HEPA filters : High-efficiency filters for cleaner, healthier air. Duct cleaning services : Eliminate built-up dust, mold, and debris in your ductwork. Smart HVAC controls : Automate air quality monitoring and adjustments for convenience and efficiency. Our expert team will assess your needs and recommend the right solution to improve your indoor air all year long. Breathe Better This Season—and Every Season Your home should be a safe, comfortable place, no matter the weather outside. By investing in indoor air quality solutions, you protect your health, enhance comfort, and improve HVAC efficiency. Let Arco Heating & Cooling help you transition smoothly into every new season. As a trusted heating and cooling contractor based in St. Charles, MO , we proudly serve the entire St. Louis metropolitan area, including both Missouri and Illinois. Call ARCO Heating & Cooling today at (636) 389-6471 to schedule your indoor air quality consultation. Breathe easier with expert solutions tailored to your home.

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How to Choose the Right HVAC System for Your Home Size

By ARCO HEATING AND COOLING • April 25, 2025

Find the Perfect HVAC Fit for Your Home's Comfort and Efficiency Selecting the right HVAC system isn’t just about brand or features—it’s about choosing a unit that fits your home’s size and layout. An improperly sized system can lead to high energy bills, uneven temperatures, and unnecessary wear and tear. At Arco Heating & Cooling , we help you choose the perfect system for optimal performance and year-round comfort. Why HVAC System Size Matters An HVAC system that’s too large or too small can cause a variety of issues: Oversized systems short-cycle, leading to inefficient operation and uneven temperature control. Undersized systems run constantly, struggle to maintain comfort, and lead to higher energy usage and faster wear. Correct sizing ensures maximum efficiency, lower utility bills, and a longer-lasting system. Key Factors in HVAC Sizing 1. Square Footage of Your Home The size of your home is the most critical factor. HVAC systems are rated in BTUs (British Thermal Units), and each square foot of living space typically requires a certain number of BTUs. 2. Climate Zone Homes in colder or hotter climates require more powerful systems to maintain comfort. Missouri’s four-season weather means your HVAC system needs to handle both heating and cooling efficiently. 3. Home Layout and Insulation High ceilings, window placement, and insulation quality can impact your home’s heating and cooling needs. A well-insulated home may require a smaller unit than a drafty one. 4. Number of Occupants and Appliances More people and heat-generating appliances (like ovens) can affect your home's internal temperature and should be factored into system sizing. Let Arco Heating & Cooling Help Choosing the right HVAC system doesn't have to be a guessing game. Arco Heating & Cooling offers expert consultation services to: Evaluate your home’s size, layout, and needs. Recommend HVAC systems based on BTU requirements and efficiency ratings. Provide professional installation and ongoing maintenance for peak performance. Get the Right System, the First Time Don’t risk investing in the wrong HVAC setup. Let the experts at Arco Heating & Cooling guide you toward a system that fits your home, budget, and comfort goals perfectly. As a trusted heating and cooling contractor based in St. Charles, MO , we proudly serve the entire St. Louis metropolitan area , including both Missouri and Illinois. Call ARCO Heating & Cooling today at (636) 389-6471 to schedule your HVAC consultation and make the smart choice for your home!