Calgary winters are no joke. When temperatures drop well below freezing, your heating system works overtime to keep your home comfortable. But sometimes, it’s not the furnace itself that’s the problem, but a few common winter heating mistakes that quietly reduce efficiency, increase costs, and strain your system.
If your home feels colder than it should, your energy bills are climbing, or your furnace seems to be running nonstop, here are some of the most common winter heating issues and how to avoid them.
1. Ignoring Annual Furnace Maintenance
One of the biggest common winter heating mistakes is skipping yearly maintenance. Furnaces that don’t receive regular inspections are more likely to break down during peak winter months, often when you need them most.
A professional tune-up before winter ensures your system is running safely, efficiently, and in compliance with all applicable codes. It also helps catch small issues before they turn into expensive emergency repairs.
2. Blocking Air Vents with Furniture or Rugs
It’s easy to accidentally block vents with couches, beds, or area rugs — especially during holiday rearranging. But restricted airflow forces your furnace to work harder, creating uneven heating and unnecessary strain.
Take a quick walk through your home and make sure all vents and registers are clear. Proper airflow keeps temperatures balanced and your furnace operating efficiently.
3. Setting the Thermostat Too High
When it’s freezing outside, it’s tempting to crank the thermostat. But setting it significantly higher doesn’t heat your home faster, as it simply makes your furnace run longer.
Gradual, consistent temperature settings help maintain comfort without overworking your system. A programmable or smart thermostat can help manage heating more efficiently throughout the day.
4. Forgetting to Change Air Filters
Dirty air filters are one of the simplest (yet most overlooked) heating problems. A clogged filter restricts airflow, reduces efficiency, and can even cause overheating.
During winter, filters should be checked monthly and replaced as needed. It’s a small task that can make a big difference in system performance and indoor air quality.
5. Closing Off Unused Rooms
Many homeowners believe shutting vents in unused rooms saves energy. In reality, this can disrupt airflow balance and increase pressure in your duct system.
Modern furnaces are designed to heat the entire home evenly. Closing vents can cause strain, reduce efficiency, and, over time, lead to duct leaks.
6. Using Space Heaters as a Primary Heat Source
Space heaters can be helpful for short-term supplemental heat — but relying on them as your main source of warmth is risky and inefficient.
They increase fire hazards, overload electrical circuits, and often cost more to operate over the long term than a properly functioning furnace.
7. Not Sealing Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and poorly sealed doors allow warm air to escape and cold air to creep in. Your furnace then has to compensate by running longer.
Simple steps like weather stripping, sealing gaps, and checking insulation can significantly reduce heat loss, especially during Calgary’s cold snaps!
8. Skipping Professional HVAC Inspections
Even if your furnace seems to be running fine, skipping professional inspections is one of the most costly common winter heating mistakes. Small mechanical issues, airflow problems, or safety concerns can go unnoticed until a breakdown happens.
Regular professional assessments ensure your heating system stays reliable all winter long!
If you’re experiencing uneven heating, airflow issues, or suspect duct problems, Springs Servicing & Heating is here to help. Calgary winters are tough enough without worrying about airflow problems or ductwork issues. Our team will make sure your heating system is running efficiently and safely, so you can stay warm without the stress!