How to Properly Maintain Your Heater in the Winter
Winter is the worst time of year to experience problems with your heating system. A breakdown in the middle of a cold night isn’t just uncomfortable, it can also be unsafe. Fortunately, there are several steps homeowners in Metro Atlanta, Georgia can take to maintain their heaters during the colder months and prevent costly emergencies.
Even though winters in Atlanta are generally milder compared to northern states, temperatures still dip into the 30s and 20s °F at night. A well-maintained heating system ensures your home stays warm and your family stays safe when the temperatures drop.
1. Inspect Your Ducts
Your ductwork is the pathway that delivers heated air throughout your home. If your ducts are leaking, you’re losing warm air and forcing your system to work harder. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average home loses 20–30% of conditioned air through leaks and gaps in ducts.
Tips for Metro Atlanta homeowners:
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Inspect visible ductwork in attics, basements, or crawl spaces.
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Seal small gaps with foil-backed tape or mastic sealant.
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If your ducts are hard to access, a professional duct sealing service is worth the investment.
In neighborhoods with older homes such as Decatur, East Point, or Brookhaven, aging ductwork is a common issue that can significantly impact heating efficiency.
2. Clean Your Heater and Replace Filters
Dust and pollen are common in Georgia, and they often build up in HVAC systems. A dirty filter or clogged system can strain your heater and reduce indoor air quality.
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Replace filters every 1–3 months (more often if you live near high-pollen areas or have pets).
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Vacuum vents and registers in every room.
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Wipe down your furnace or heat pump area to prevent dust accumulation.
The EPA stresses that good indoor air quality can reduce allergy and asthma triggers, something especially important in Metro Atlanta where pollen counts rank among the highest in the country.
3. Test and Inspect Your Pilot Light or Ignition System
If you have a gas furnace, make sure your pilot light burns steady and blue. Flickering or yellow flames may point to ventilation or combustion problems that require professional service.
For newer systems with electronic ignition, test your heater before heavy winter use. Running it for 10–15 minutes on a cool fall day allows you to check for odd smells, noises, or inefficiencies before the first freeze arrives.
4. Watch for Unusual Smells and Noises
When firing up your heater for the season, pay attention to warning signs:
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Burning smell: Often just dust burning off, but lingering odors could mean electrical issues.
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Rotten egg smell: May signal a natural gas leak. Leave immediately and call for help!
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Banging or rattling: Can indicate loose parts, blower motor issues, or a cracked heat exchanger.
These issues should always be handled by a licensed HVAC professional.
5. Schedule a Professional Heating Tune-Ups
While DIY steps are useful, a professional inspection is the most effective way to ensure your system is safe and efficient. A Metro Atlanta HVAC technician can:
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Check for carbon monoxide leaks.
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Clean burners and ignition systems.
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Inspect the heat exchanger for cracks.
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Test airflow and calibrate the thermostat.
Regular maintenance can also help lower your winter energy bills. Georgia homeowners spend an average of $1,400 annually on energy, and heating is a major portion of that.
The best way to prepare your heater for winter is to schedule a professional maintenance appointment. Professionals have the experience and tools necessary to make sure your heating will last throughout the winter months. Moreover, if there is anything out of the ordinary or concerning, the technician can repair it quickly.
Winter is a time for comfort and coziness in your home, and maintaining your heater plays a vital role in enjoying this season. Call Clark’s Air & Heating for any of your heating needs.
Local Winter Tip: Be Prepared for Atlanta Cold Snaps
Although Metro Atlanta is known for mild winters, sudden cold snaps and ice storms are not uncommon. In fact, temperatures have dropped as low as 5°F in past winters. Preparing your heater now helps you avoid being caught off guard during unexpected freezes.
For additional safety resources, check out:
Stay Warm with Clark’s Air & Heating in Metro Atlanta
Winter should be a season of comfort, not furnace emergencies. By sealing ducts, replacing filters, testing your system, and scheduling professional maintenance, you’ll keep your Metro Atlanta home warm and your family safe.
At Clark’s Air & Heating, we proudly serve homeowners across Metro Atlanta, including Marietta, Sandy Springs, Decatur, Roswell, and beyond. Call today to schedule your heating maintenance appointment before the cold sets in.
