As Michigan homeowners, we know winter doesn’t ease in—it arrives ready to test your comfort system. At First Choice, we speak to you directly because we’re the ones who keep your home warm, efficient, and reliable when the temperatures plunge. A proactive year-end HVAC maintenance routine helps prevent breakdowns, lowers energy bills, and keeps your family comfortable all season long. HVAC maintenance in Fenton. We believe preventative maintenance is the smartest investment you can make in your home’s comfort and safety.
Below is our checklist to prepare your system for heavy winter use and set you up for a worry-free start to the new year.
Preparing Your System for Heavy Winter Use
When you trust First Choice, you’re choosing experienced technicians who understand Michigan winters and how hard they are on HVAC systems. Before your furnace works overtime, it needs a clean bill of health. Michigan winters demand consistent performance, and small issues can quickly turn into no-heat emergencies. Year-end maintenance ensures your system runs safely, efficiently, and reliably when you need it most. We recommend addressing these items before the deep freeze sets in.
Filter Replacement
This is one of the simplest yet most important steps. A dirty air filter restricts airflow, forces your furnace to work harder, and can lead to higher energy bills or premature system wear. We recommend replacing filters every 1–3 months during the heating season, especially if you have pets or allergies. Clean filters improve indoor air quality and help your system maintain even, consistent heat throughout your home.
Thermostat Programming Review
Your thermostat is the command center of your HVAC system. Reviewing and optimizing its programming ensures your home stays comfortable without wasting energy. We help homeowners confirm temperature schedules, adjust setback settings, and verify proper calibration. A well-programmed thermostat can significantly reduce heating costs while keeping your mornings and evenings cozy.
Duct Inspection
Your ductwork delivers warm air to every room, but leaks, gaps, or blockages can steal comfort and efficiency. During a duct inspection, we look for disconnected sections, visible damage, and airflow restrictions. Sealed and well-maintained ducts help your furnace distribute heat evenly, eliminate cold spots, and reduce unnecessary strain on the system.
Airflow Checks
Balanced airflow is critical for comfort and system longevity. We check vents, registers, and returns to make sure air is moving freely throughout your home. Poor airflow can indicate hidden issues such as dirty components or duct problems. Correcting these issues helps your system run more smoothly and keeps every room warm—even during Michigan’s coldest nights.
Plan for the First Quarter
Winter doesn’t end when the calendar flips. We encourage homeowners to schedule their first-quarter HVAC check between January and March. This mid-season visit helps catch wear and tear early, fine-tunes performance, and ensures your system stays dependable through late winter and early spring temperature swings.
At First Choice, we treat your home like it’s our own—because comfort is personal. Our goal is simple: fewer surprises, lower energy bills, and total peace of mind all winter long.