Keep Your Fireplace and HVAC Systems Running Strong All Winter

By Brandon Schramm, Service Manager at Comfort Solutions

Your HVAC system and fireplace are working harder than ever to keep your home warm this winter. Seasonal tune-ups are essential to prepare for the harsh weather. But mid-season maintenance is just as important and should not be overlooked.

Paying attention to key indicators now can help you avoid costly repairs in the future. Follow these simple steps to ensure your HVAC system and fireplace perform at their best this winter.

Keep Your Furnace & HVAC Running Smoothly

Your furnace is the heart of your home’s heating system during the cold months. It keeps your entire house warm, but heavy use during winter can take its toll. Recognizing issues early can save you time, money, and stress.

Signs Your Furnace Needs Attention:

• Strange noises: Loud bangs, rattles, or screeches often signal loose or worn parts. These sounds can indicate a problem that requires immediate attention.
• Poor heating performance: If your furnace runs non-stop but your home remains cold or develops uneven heating, airflow or mechanical issues might be the culprit.

What to Do Now:

1. Check your filters: Dirty filters block airflow and force your system to work harder. Replace one-inch filters monthly and thicker ones every 3–6 months. Clean filters also help your furnace last longer.
2. Inspect airflow: Make sure vents and registers are open and not blocked by furniture or curtains. This ensures warm air circulates evenly.
3. Seal your home: Use weather stripping to close gaps around doors and windows. This keeps heat inside and reduces the workload on your furnace.

These small steps can make a big difference. A well-maintained furnace keeps your home warm, saves energy, and extends the life of your system.

Schedule a Mid-Winter Furnace Tune-Up

Winter puts extra demands on your HVAC system, and mid-season maintenance ensures it’s ready for the challenge. A professional tune-up includes inspecting burners, gas valves, and connections, cleaning components, and testing airflow and gas pressure.

Regular maintenance helps your system run more efficiently and prevents unexpected breakdowns during the coldest months.

Fireplace Maintenance in Winter

Your fireplace isn’t just for ambiance—it’s a key part of your home’s heating system. Like your furnace, it needs upkeep to run efficiently and safely. Neglecting your fireplace can lead to reduced performance or safety concerns.

Signs Your Fireplace Needs Attention:

• Cloudy or dirty glass: Soot and condensation can make your fireplace look dull and reduce heat output.
• Unusual smells: Burning dust, spider webs, or debris can cause odors, especially during the first use of the season. Persistent smells may signal venting or burner issues.
• Weak flames: Flames that are low, uneven, or too yellow may indicate problems with gas flow or the burner.

What to Do:

1. Clean the glass: Regular cleaning keeps your fireplace looking beautiful and improves heat output. Use a cleaner made specifically for fireplace glass.
2. Check for odors: If you notice unusual smells, have a professional inspect the venting for buildup or obstructions.
3. Schedule a tune-up: A professional can clean the burners, check gas connections, and ensure safe and efficient operation.

Upgrade Your Fireplace for More Warmth & Efficiency

Many builder-grade fireplaces are purely decorative and provide little heat. If you’re ready for more warmth and efficiency, consider upgrading your fireplace. Modern models are both practical and stylish, offering more heat while using less energy. Upgrading your fireplace could help work with your furnace to lower energy costs and maximize comfort in your home. 

Consider These Fireplace Improvements:

• Boost heat output: Newer fireplaces can produce 50–100% more heat than standard models, making them a reliable secondary heat source.
• Increase efficiency: Upgraded units operate at up to 80% efficiency, compared to just 55% for older models. This means more warmth and lower energy bills.
• Add zone heating: Use your fireplace to warm the rooms where you spend the most time, reducing your home’s overall heating costs during winter. 

Why Choose Comfort Solutions for Maintenance?

Comfort Solutions is here to keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long. Whether you need furnace repairs, a fireplace tune-up, or a complete system upgrade, we’re here to help.

• Experienced technicians: Our certified experts specialize in HVAC systems and fireplaces, so you don’t need multiple service providers.
• Fast response times: We can often provide same-day service. You won’t have to wait long for repairs or tune-ups.
• Priority Plus Maintenance Plan: Our maintenance plan offers faster service, exclusive discounts, and year-round peace of mind. Regular tune-ups ensure your systems run efficiently when you need them most.

A mid-winter tune-up can prevent breakdowns, improve efficiency, and keep your home comfortable. Whether it’s a routine check or an emergency repair, Comfort Solutions has you covered.

Call us today to schedule your mid-winter fireplace or HVAC tune-up!