When winter storms start rolling over the Rockies, you want your home warm, efficient, and worry-free. As your local comfort experts, we see the same cold-weather pitfalls every year—and they’re surprisingly easy to avoid. Before we dive in, it’s worth remembering that reliable heating in Colorado Springs isn’t just about comfort; it’s about safety, efficiency, and saving money all season long.
Below are the five most common mistakes Colorado homeowners make before winter hits—and how you can avoid them.
1. Forgetting to Switch Out Dirty Filters
If you can’t remember the last time you changed your furnace filter, you’re not alone. Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing your heating system to work harder and raising utility bills. They can even cause overheating and early system failure. We recommend checking your filter monthly during the heating season and replacing it at least every 60–90 days. It’s simple, inexpensive, and incredibly effective.
2. Ignoring Pilot Light or Ignition Problems
Pilot lights and electronic ignitions are easy to overlook—until you lose heat on a freezing night. Flickering flames, delayed ignition, or repeated shutdowns are warning signs. If you smell gas, hear bangs, or notice inconsistent flame behavior, don’t ignore it. These issues can stem from dirty burners, faulty sensors, or gas flow problems. A professional inspection keeps your home safe and your furnace dependable.
3. Blocking Vents and Registers
We know—furniture needs a place to live, and decorative rugs are cozy. But blocking vents restricts airflow throughout your ductwork, throwing your system off balance. That can lead to cold spots, higher heating bills, and extra wear on your blower motor. Keep vents clear by at least 12 inches and avoid closing them to “save heat.” Your furnace isn’t designed for blocked airflow, and you’ll pay for it later.
4. Setting the Thermostat Too Low (or Too Often)
Thermostat setbacks are smart—when they’re moderate. Dropping your temperature drastically (more than 7–10 degrees) forces your system to work overtime to warm the home back up. That means burned energy and unnecessary strain. Program smaller setbacks for when you’re asleep or away, and keep daytime temperatures consistent. Your comfort and energy bill will thank you.
5. Delaying Pre-Winter Tune-Ups
This is the biggest one we see. Homeowners wait until something fails, often during the first cold snap. A pre-season tune-up catches worn components, low airflow, safety concerns, and inefficiencies before they become emergencies. Bonus: Many manufacturers require annual service to maintain warranties. Your furnace is like a car—skip the oil change long enough, and problems pile up.
Stay Warm, Stay Safe
Winter in Colorado can be unpredictable, but your heating doesn’t have to be. A little preparation saves money, prevents breakdowns, and keeps your home cozy when the snow flies. Regular maintenance not only boosts efficiency but also extends the lifespan of your heating system, ultimately protecting the investment you’ve made in your home. When you team up with HVAC experts who know the challenges of Colorado’s climate, you can rest easy knowing your system is ready for whatever winter throws your way.
Contact SoCo Heating and Cooling today to schedule service. So Cool. So Cozy.