Experts urge homeowners to prep HVAC systems ahead of winter

NEW HANOVER COUNTY (WWAY) — As colder weather moves in, it’s important to make sure your HVAC system is ready, from checking heat strips to scheduling a seasonal tune-up. 

Knowing what to look for now can help prevent breakdowns later — and keep your home warm and efficient all winter long. 

As temperatures drop, knowing how your HVAC system reacts can prevent unnecessary worry — and unexpected repair bills. 

 In winter, HVAC units will briefly switch into air conditioning mode to melt ice on the outside coil, while supplementary heat strips kick in to provide extra warmth. 

 When those strips work harder, they can make loud grinding noises, often mistaken for a problem. 

 To avoid overworking the system, experts recommend raising thermostat temperature only two degrees at a time. 

 Justin Fulford, owner of Fulford Heating and Cooling, says the best preparation is routine maintenance. 

“Maintenance is very important. You change the oil in your car every 5,000 miles, 3,000 miles some people, but with these heating systems if we can get in your home twice a year and do routine maintenance, air conditioning and heating, because we do have two extremes, winter and summer. Winter’s not as long typically in our area, but it does get cold,” said Fulford. 

Routine checks in the spring and fall can prevent issues when heating and cooling systems are needed most.