It is wintertime in Texas, which means we will have temperatures ranging from below freezing to flip-flop weather…all in the same day. These temperature changes can fool us into thinking we have plenty of time to prepare our homes for winter. However, the last few seasons have taught us that we don’t want to get caught with drafty doors when winter comes knocking.

Winter prep doesn’t need to take hours. In fact, here are five things you can do to prepare for winter that should take you less than an hour to complete.

1. Switch Your Ceiling Fans

You should change the direction that your ceiling fan turns in the summer and in the winter. For wintertime, you want your ceiling fans to be turning clockwise on low speed. This will create a slight updraft, which will push the warm air near the ceiling down into the room, helping to keep the room at a comfortable temperature. This simple adjustment can help reduce strain on your Houston HVAC system by allowing it to work more efficiently.

2. Change Your Air Filters

Did you know that your Houston residential HVAC services recommend changing your HVAC filters every month? Dust and dirt build up over time, decreasing air quality and making it harder for your Houston HVAC unit to work efficiently. A clogged filter can also lead to damage to components like your heat pump. Regular filter changes improve indoor air quality and prevent costly Houston HVAC repair services in the long run.

3. Check Your Windows and Doors for Drafts and Gaps

Sometimes, the weather stripping around your doors can wear down or break over time. If you see a gap or feel air blowing in around the edges, you should replace the weather strip. If your weather strip is in good shape but you still have a gap, you may need to adjust your door. This is a simple process that can be done by yourself or a handyman.
Gaps around windows can also appear as the house settles and shifts slightly. While they may not seem like a big deal, they allow cold air in and heat out during the winter, forcing your Houston HVAC services to work harder. You can fill these gaps with weather stripping or caulk, depending on where the gap is.

4. Check Your Insulation Levels

In Texas, it is suggested that you have at least 14 inches of insulation in your attic for good insulation. Over time, insulation falls and compacts into itself, so it is good to check your insulation level every year to make sure that it is the right depth and that the insulation is still in good condition—free of mold or moisture. Proper insulation supports the efficiency of your Houston HVAC installation services, keeping your home comfortable and reducing energy costs.

5. Check Your Thermostat

Make sure that your thermostat is working properly—it should switch from AC to heat, temperatures should change and hold where you set them, and the room temperature should match the reading. Your Houston HVAC system should not be cycling unnecessarily.
If you notice any issues, check to make sure that your wiring is not damaged. If that looks good, you may need to recalibrate your thermostat. Depending on the model, this may be something you can do yourself. If your thermostat is malfunctioning, have it evaluated by a professional or replace it yourself. If replacing, consider a smart thermostat to keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient. One final tip: try keeping your thermostat set between 68 and 70 degrees when you are at home to conserve energy and reduce wear on your Houston HVAC preventive maintenance system.

Stay Warm This Winter With Velocity Air’s Houston HVAC Services

These are just a few easy things you can do to prepare your home for the coming winter weather. If you need help with changing air filters, checking your thermostat, or performing seasonal maintenance on your HVAC unit, make sure to reach out to our team at Velocity Air. We provide expert Houston HVAC repair services, Houston HVAC installation services, and Houston HVAC preventive maintenance to keep your system running smoothly and efficiently all winter long.
Velocity Air is proud to provide Houston HVAC services, including maintenance, emergency repair, and installation, to the Greater Houston Area.