As temperatures drop, heating your home becomes a top priority—but it's not always as simple as turning up the thermostat. Many homeowners underestimate the importance of regular HVAC maintenance, with inspections often skipped for years at a time. This can lead to unexpected breakdowns when you need your system the most. Rising heating costs only add to the challenge, leaving families juggling high bills and limited savings for emergencies.
This winter, take your time. With a little preparation and the right tools, you can keep your home cozy and your budget intact. From maintaining your HVAC system to choosing the perfect heating solutions, this guide has everything you need to stay warm and avoid potential problems.
Key Takeaways:
Only a quarter of homeowners have their HVAC inspected/cleaned at least once annually.
Over three in four (76%) homeowners worry about increasing heating costs this winter.
Two in five homeowners have savings for heating-related emergencies. Of those with savings, 65% report having less than $500.
The State of HVAC Maintenance in America
Did you know that only a quarter of homeowners have their HVAC systems inspected annually? A recent Tractor Supply survey revealed that many homeowners lack the knowledge or confidence to maintain their heating systems effectively.
When it comes to HVAC systems, many homeowners struggle with maintenance due to a lack of knowledge or confidence. Nearly one in 10 Americans don't know what HVAC stands for—Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning—and over one in seven have resorted to using a stove to heat their home. This lack of understanding translates to poor maintenance habits, with only one in three Southerners getting their HVAC systems serviced annually and other regions falling even further behind.
Confidence plays a significant role in these behaviors. Homeowners who feel unsure about their ability to maintain their systems are 46% more likely to delay servicing until a problem arises. This delay can lead to costly repairs and unexpected breakdowns, especially during the colder months. Generational differences also show that younger homeowners are slightly more proactive—35% of Gen Z service their systems annually, compared to just 24% of Millennials and 23% of Gen X. Interestingly, men are 8% more likely than women to express confidence in their HVAC knowledge, but that confidence doesn't always translate to action.
The decision of when to turn on the heat also varies by location. In the Northeast and Midwest, homeowners typically wait for outdoor temperatures to dip to around 52°F–53°F, while Southerners and Westerners are more sensitive to the cold, flipping up the thermostat at 56°F. Regardless of the region, ensuring your system is properly serviced before these first cold snaps is vital to staying warm and avoiding mid-season malfunctions.
Taking proactive steps increases confidence and prevents minor issues from becoming major problems, ensuring your HVAC system is ready to keep your home comfortable all winter.
How to Winterize Your Home
Get your home winter-ready with this essential HVAC checklist to ensure warmth, safety, and energy efficiency all season long.
Turning on your heat for the first time in winter can feel like flipping a switch on comfort, but it's also a critical moment for ensuring your heating system is running efficiently and safely. Before the chill sets in, take a few minutes to follow this heater winter checklist. These simple yet essential steps will help you avoid surprises and maximize your system's performance all season long.
Turn the Heat On with Confidence
Before relying on your heater, inspect it for visible wear and ensure the surrounding area is free of debris. Replacing or cleaning filters is one of the quickest ways to improve airflow and efficiency. Then, power up the system to test it—listen carefully for any unusual noises or vibrations that could signal potential issues.
Fine-Tune for Comfort
A properly functioning thermostat is key to keeping your home cozy without wasting energy. Check that it's set to heating mode and that it responds to adjustments. While you're at it, take a moment to clean your vents and registers to ensure warm air flows freely throughout your home.
Prevent Heat Loss
Leaks in your ductwork can undermine your heating system's efficiency, forcing it to work harder and driving up energy costs. Inspect your ducts for any holes or gaps and seal them with duct tape (as an emergent temporary solution) or mastic sealant to keep the heat where it belongs.
Prioritize Safety
If your system uses fuel, a carbon monoxide detector is your first defense against potential hazards. Test all detectors and replace batteries as needed to keep your household safe.
Professional Maintenance is Key
Even with regular at-home care, scheduling a professional inspection is the best way to catch issues that might not be visible to the untrained eye. An expert can tune up your system, identify potential problems, and ensure it's ready to handle the winter months ahead.
This winter HVAC tip checklist helps you avoid common issues and ensures your home is warm, safe, and energy-efficient. Take the time to prepare now, and you'll thank yourself when the cold sets in.
Rising Heating Costs and Financial Strain
Heating costs are a growing concern for many homeowners, with rising expenses and limited financial preparedness creating significant challenges.
Heating costs are putting a significant strain on household budgets, with 36% of homeowners reporting their expenses are higher than expected when they purchased their homes. This concern is amplified by rising costs, as 76% of homeowners are worried about increases this winter—a sentiment felt more strongly by women (79%) than men (73%). Regions like Ohio (45%) and California (43%) stand out as areas where these unexpected expenses particularly burden homeowners.
Financial preparedness paints an even more concerning picture. Only 41% of homeowners have savings for heating-related emergencies. Of the 41% that do have savings, over 70% of these individuals have less than $1,000 saved, leaving many financially vulnerable to sudden repairs or system failures. Gen Z homeowners are the most likely to have savings for heating-related emergencies (53%), but their average savings are the lowest at $1,365. In contrast, Baby Boomers, Gen X, and Millennials save more on average—$3,125, $3,328, and $3,358 respectively—but fewer in these groups have emergency funds, with Baby Boomers at 50%, Gen X at 40%, and Millennials at 38%.
This lack of financial security underscores the importance of proactive HVAC maintenance to avoid costly emergencies. With preparation, many families can avoid heating interruptions during the coldest months of the year.
6 Commonly-Asked Heating Questions
Heating your home efficiently and safely during the winter often comes with many questions. From understanding proper maintenance schedules to using space heaters and budgeting for unexpected emergencies, here are answers to homeowners' most common concerns about keeping their homes warm.
How Often Should I Replace HVAC or Furnace Filters?
Regularly replacing your HVAC or furnace filters is essential for maintaining good airflow and energy efficiency. How often you should replace your filter will depend on the size. In general, this is how frequently changing filters needs to be done:
Replace 1- to 2-inch filters every 1 to 3 months.
Replace 3- to 4-inch filters every 6 to 9 months.
Replace 5- to 6-inch filters every 9 to 12 months.
Regular maintenance can prevent strain on your system and improve indoor air quality.
How Often Should I Clean/Service My Heater?
Your heater should be professionally serviced once a year for optimal performance and longevity, ideally before winter begins. Regular service helps prevent breakdowns and ensures your system is operating efficiently. However, regional habits vary—34% of homeowners in the South service their heaters annually, while only 20% in the West do the same. Neglecting yearly service can increase the risk of costly malfunctions during peak usage.
Are Space Heaters Safe?
Space heaters are a safe and effective way to provide supplemental heat when used correctly. Always follow safety guidelines: turn off the heater when leaving the room or going to sleep, and keep it clear of flammable materials. However, 22% of Americans admit they sometimes turn their space heaters off when unattended, which increases the risk of fire or overheating. Proper use is crucial for maintaining safety in your home.
Do Space Heaters Save Money?
When used strategically, space heaters can help save money by reducing the need to heat your entire home. They're most effective for warming specific rooms or areas where you spend the most time, cutting down on overall energy costs. Pairing a space heater with a lower central thermostat setting can maximize savings without sacrificing comfort.
What Temperature Should I Set My Thermostat to in Winter?
For energy efficiency, the U.S. Department of Energy recommends setting your thermostat to 68°F while at home and lowering it when you're asleep or away. On average, homeowners wait until outdoor temperatures drop below 55°F to turn on their heat. Regional habits differ—Pennsylvania residents turn on their heat at 52°F, while Georgians prefer 60°F. Adjust your settings based on comfort and energy-saving goals.
How Much Should I Budget Annually for Heating Emergencies and Repairs?
Heating-related emergencies are surprisingly common, with 63% of homeowners experiencing issues such as component malfunctions (27%), no heat during extreme cold (24%), or frozen pipes (21%). According to Angi's "State of Home Spending" report in 2023, the average home emergency costs were $1,667, so budgeting between $1000-$2000 for emergencies would be ideal. Consequently, these unexpected heating problems can put a serious strain on homeowners' finances.
Only 41% of homeowners have savings for emergencies, and of those with savings, barely one in eight (12%) have over $5,000 set aside—highlighting the need for proactive budgeting and maintenance.
Winter Home Heating Solutions - What Heater Is Best For You?
Finding the right heating solution for your home can make all the difference in staying warm and comfortable during the winter. Whether you need supplemental heat for a small space or a whole-house system, understanding your options will help you choose the best fit for your lifestyle and budget.
When it comes to heating your home, selecting the right solution depends on your space, needs, and budget. Portable space heaters are ideal for small areas or supplemental heating, offering flexibility with fuel options like electric, kerosene, propane, or natural gas or a cozy atmosphere and efficient zone heating; fireplaces—whether wood-burning, gas, or electric—are perfect for living rooms or open spaces where ambiance matters. Pairing them with the right heating accessories can enhance their efficiency and convenience.
For homes with limited space or off-grid needs, stoves provide reliable heat by burning wood, pellets, or gas, making them great for targeted heating in specific areas. Meanwhile, furnaces offer comprehensive whole-house heating by distributing warm air through ducts, powered by gas, electric, oil, or propane. Each option has advantages, allowing you to tailor your heating setup to keep your home comfortable and energy-efficient all winter. Explore Tractor Supply's wide range of heating solutions to find the perfect fit for your home.
Stay Prepared and Comfortable This Winter
As winter sets in, taking proactive steps to maintain your heating system and prepare your home can make all the difference. Preparation is key to staying warm and stress-free, from regular HVAC maintenance and understanding heating solutions to managing rising costs and budgeting for emergencies. By addressing common heating concerns and exploring options that fit your needs and budget, you can enjoy a cozy, energy-efficient home all season long. Let Tractor Supply be your trusted partner in navigating the challenges of winter heating.
Methodology
To explore HVAC maintenance and knowledge, we surveyed 1,507 American homeowners.
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