When winter temperatures settle over Knoxville and East Tennessee, your HVAC system becomes the unsung hero of your home—keeping your family warm, your pipes from freezing, and your comfort levels high. But cold weather can also strain your furnace or heat pump if it’s not properly maintained.

At Airecare, we help Knoxville homeowners stay warm and save money with smart HVAC strategies tailored to our region’s climate. In this post, we’ll walk you through essential winter HVAC tips to help your system run efficiently, avoid breakdowns, and keep energy costs under control.

Why Winter HVAC Maintenance Matters in Tennessee

East Tennessee winters can be unpredictable—60°F one week and snowing the next. These fluctuations cause your system to work harder than it would in more consistent climates.

Here’s what your HVAC system is up against in winter:

• Freezing temperatures and frost buildup on outdoor units (especially heat pumps)

• Dry indoor air and increased allergy symptoms

• Greater demand on heating cycles

• Increased energy usage and risk of frozen pipes if the system fails

Taking a few steps now can prevent expensive repairs and ensure efficient, consistent heating through winter.

1. Replace or Clean Air Filters

A dirty air filter is the number one cause of reduced HVAC performance in winter. It restricts airflow, causes your system to run longer, and can lead to overheating.

What to Do:

• Check your filter monthly

• Replace it every 30–60 days, or more often if you have pets or allergies

• Use high-efficiency (HEPA or MERV 8+) filters for better air quality

A clean filter = better airflow, less strain, and lower utility bills.

2. Seal Drafts and Insulate Properly

Your HVAC system shouldn’t have to work overtime just because of air leaks. Drafts around doors, windows, and ducts allow warm air to escape and cold air to creep in.

What to Do:

• Seal around windows with caulk or weatherstripping

• Add door sweeps or draft blockers to exterior doors

• Check for gaps around attic entries and recessed lights

• Insulate ductwork in unconditioned areas like attics or crawlspaces

Tip: If your home feels drafty, Airecare can perform a home performance assessment and help identify efficiency issues.

3. Program Your Thermostat for Maximum Efficiency

Programmable or smart thermostats can make a huge difference in both comfort and cost—especially during cold Knoxville nights.

Winter Thermostat Settings:

• Set to 68°F during the day when you’re home

• Lower to 60–64°F at night or when away from home

• Avoid frequent manual adjustments—they cause more cycling and energy waste

If you don’t have a smart thermostat, Airecare can install and configure one to help you save energy and improve comfort.

4. Keep Vents and Registers Clear

Blocked vents can throw off your system’s airflow and efficiency. It also increases the time your furnace or heat pump must run to heat your home.

What to Do:

• Ensure vents and returns are not blocked by furniture, rugs, or curtains

• Vacuum dust buildup from registers and vent grilles

• Leave doors open between rooms to help heat circulate evenly

Proper airflow = even heating and less strain on your HVAC system.

5. Check and Insulate Exposed Pipes and Ducts

Frozen pipes and uninsulated ductwork are common culprits behind heat loss and water damage in winter.

What to Do:

• Insulate any water pipes that run through unheated areas

• Wrap HVAC ducts in the attic or crawlspace with insulation sleeves

• Check for condensation or signs of airflow leaks

This small step can save you from major winter damage and heat loss.

6. Keep Outdoor Units Clear of Ice, Leaves, and Debris

If you have a heat pump system, the outdoor unit continues to run all winter. Ice, snow, or debris buildup around it can restrict airflow and cause performance issues.

What to Do:

• Keep the area around your outdoor unit clear of snow and debris

• Never cover a heat pump unit—it needs airflow year-round

• If you notice frost or ice buildup that doesn’t melt off, call Airecare for a defrost cycle check

7. Schedule a Professional Winter Tune-Up

Even if everything seems fine, your system could be hiding wear and tear. A winter HVAC inspection helps identify issues before they become emergencies.

Airecare’s Winter Tune-Up Includes:

• Heat exchanger inspection (for cracks or leaks)

• Thermostat calibration

• Blower motor testing

• Duct and airflow checks

• Carbon monoxide detection and safety inspection

A well-maintained system lasts longer, runs quieter, and costs less to operate.

8. Monitor Your System for Warning Signs

Watch for these signs of HVAC trouble during the winter months:

• Unusual noises (banging, screeching, or clicking)

• Cold spots or uneven heating between rooms

• Weak airflow from vents

• A furnace or heat pump that cycles on and off too frequently

• Sudden increases in your heating bill

If you notice any of these, call Airecare immediately. Catching issues early can prevent a full breakdown.

9. Use Ceiling Fans to Circulate Warm Air

It may sound strange, but ceiling fans help during winter—when used correctly.

What to Do:

• Set ceiling fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed

• This pushes warm air (which rises) down into the living space

• Use in rooms with high ceilings or poor air circulation

Just this one tip can help your HVAC system work less while keeping your home cozy.

10. Consider Upgrading to a High-Efficiency Furnace or Heat Pump

If your system is over 10–15 years old, it may be costing you more than it should. Newer models offer higher efficiency ratings, quieter performance, and smarter controls.

Airecare Offers:

• Amana and Goodman high-efficiency systems

• Honest recommendations based on your home and budget

• Financing options to make upgrades affordable

• Proper installation to ensure peak winter performance

Ask us about our top-rated systems and how they perform in Knoxville’s winter climate.

Don’t Let Winter Catch You Off Guard

When temperatures drop, your HVAC system becomes your home’s most important asset. With just a few simple steps—and a little help from the experts at Airecare—you can keep your system running smoothly all winter long.

📞 Call us today at (865) 200-8577
🌐 Or visit Our Contact Page to schedule your winter tune-up or consultation

Serving Knoxville, Maryville, Lenoir City, Farragut, Powell, and surrounding East Tennessee communities.