Texas winters may not always bring snow and ice, but sudden cold snaps can make your home uncomfortable if your furnace isn’t ready. Even brief periods of extreme cold can test your heating system, and failing to prepare can lead to inefficiency, higher energy bills, or even system breakdowns. At Texas Air Authorities, we’ve helped homeowners across the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex ensure their furnaces are ready for winter. Here’s what you need to know to keep your home warm, safe, and energy-efficient during cold snaps.
1. Schedule a Professional Furnace Inspection
Before the cold weather hits, a professional furnace inspection is essential. A qualified HVAC technician can check for potential issues that could leave your home without heat. This inspection typically includes:
- Checking the thermostat and system controls for proper function
- Inspecting electrical components and safety features
- Examining the heat exchanger for cracks or corrosion
- Testing airflow and duct system performance
- Cleaning or replacing air filters
Scheduling this maintenance before winter not only prevents unexpected breakdowns but also ensures your system runs efficiently, saving you money on energy bills. At Texas Air Authorities, we provide same-day service, free estimates, and NATE-certified technicians to make the process easy and reliable.
2. Change or Clean Your Air Filters
Clean air filters are critical for furnace performance. Dirty or clogged filters restrict airflow, forcing your furnace to work harder and consume more energy. Before a cold snap, replace disposable filters or clean reusable ones. This simple step improves air quality, prevents overheating, and ensures consistent heating throughout your home.
3. Check Your Thermostat Settings
Your thermostat controls your comfort and efficiency. Before winter arrives, check that it’s functioning correctly, set to the right temperature, and, if programmable, programmed for your schedule. A malfunctioning thermostat can lead to uneven heating or excessive energy consumption. Texas Air Authorities can calibrate or replace thermostats to ensure accurate, reliable operation.
4. Inspect Your Ductwork
Leaky or poorly insulated ducts can waste a significant amount of heated air, causing uneven heating and higher energy bills. A professional inspection can identify leaks, loose connections, or inadequate insulation. Properly sealed ductwork ensures that every room in your home receives consistent heat and your furnace runs efficiently.
5. Test Your Furnace Before the Cold Arrives
Don’t wait until the first cold snap to find out your furnace isn’t working properly. Turn on your system a few days before winter hits to ensure it starts smoothly, heats effectively, and circulates air properly. Listen for unusual noises, check for cold spots, and verify airflow at every vent. If you notice anything unusual, call your HVAC contractor promptly.
6. Clear the Area Around Your Furnace
Furnaces need proper clearance to operate safely and efficiently. Remove any clutter, storage items, or combustible materials from around your unit. This not only reduces fire hazards but also allows airflow around the furnace, improving performance and efficiency.
7. Check Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Furnaces that burn fuel produce carbon monoxide (CO), which is odorless and dangerous. Before winter, ensure CO detectors are installed and functioning properly. A professional furnace inspection will include checking for CO leaks and ensuring your system vents safely. Safety should always be a priority, and at Texas Air Authorities, we make it part of every winter service.
8. Consider System Upgrades
If your furnace is over 15–20 years old, a cold snap is a good reminder to consider an upgrade. Newer systems are more energy-efficient, provide more consistent heat, and reduce the risk of unexpected breakdowns. Upgrading can also include adding a programmable thermostat, improving air quality, or installing zoning controls for optimal comfort in every room.
9. Keep Emergency Supplies Ready
Even with a properly maintained furnace, unexpected issues can occur during extreme weather. Keep extra blankets, portable heaters (with safety precautions), and emergency contact information handy. Having a go-to HVAC contractor ensures you can get help quickly if your system fails during a cold snap. At Texas Air Authorities, we offer same-day service to address urgent heating problems efficiently and reliably.
Conclusion
Preparing your furnace for a cold snap is essential for comfort, safety, and efficiency. From scheduling a professional inspection and changing filters to checking ductwork, thermostats, and carbon monoxide detectors, taking these steps ahead of time ensures your home stays warm and your furnace runs reliably.
At Texas Air Authorities, we provide comprehensive furnace maintenance, repairs, and installations throughout the Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex, including Arlington, Fort Worth, Grapevine, Mansfield, Bedford, and surrounding areas. With NATE-certified technicians, same-day appointments, and free estimates, we help homeowners stay comfortable and safe during every Texas winter. Don’t wait for the first cold snap—call Texas Air Authorities today to get your furnace ready for the season.
Texas Air Authorities is the premier choice for HVAC services in Arlington. With a team of highly trained and certified technicians, we have the expertise to handle all of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning needs. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is unmatched, and we always go above and beyond to ensure that your experience with us is positive. We use only the highest quality parts and equipment to ensure that your HVAC system is running at peak performance. Plus, we offer competitive pricing and flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Choose Texas Air Authorities for all of your HVAC needs in Arlington.
