Our HVAC technicians are available 24/7 to deliver prompt heating repairs that restore comfort quickly.
When winter rolls into the St. Louis area, your furnace becomes the unsung hero of your home. But even the best heating systems can struggle—or fail—if they’re not correctly maintained or used wisely.
At Thomas Hoffmann Air Conditioning & Heating, we’ve seen it all, and we’re here to help you avoid common winter heating mistakes that could cost you comfort, money, or even a mid-winter breakdown.
Here are the top 3 heating mistakes homeowners make every winter—and how to avoid them:
1. Skipping Your Annual Furnace Tune-Up
Think of your furnace like your car—it needs regular maintenance to run efficiently and safely. Many homeowners put off a tune-up until something goes wrong, but by then, you’re dealing with more expensive repairs.
Why it matters:
- Dirty burners can reduce efficiency and cause uneven heating.
- A worn-out blower motor could leave you with no heat at all.
- Small issues left unchecked can turn into costly repairs or even a full furnace replacement.
What to do:
Schedule a professional furnace inspection and tune-up every fall or early winter. Our team checks for carbon monoxide leaks, replaces filters, tests safety controls, and ensures everything’s running smoothly before the real cold hits.
👉 Pro tip: Join our maintenance agreement program for automatic reminders and seasonal discounts.
2. Cranking the Thermostat Way Up
When it’s freezing outside, it’s tempting to turn the thermostat up to 75°F or higher to “warm up faster.” Unfortunately, your furnace doesn’t work that way—and this habit can spike your utility bills.
Why it matters:
- Furnaces heat at the same rate regardless of the set temperature.
- Constantly raising the heat puts unnecessary stress on your system.
- It can create uneven heating and dry out the air in your home.
What to do: Set your thermostat to a consistent, energy-efficient temperature—typically 68°F to 70°F when you’re home. Consider installing a programmable or smart thermostat to automate temperature changes when you’re asleep or away.
📲 Bonus: We can help you install a smart thermostat to save money and improve comfort all winter long.
3. Blocking Vents or Ignoring Airflow Issues
During the holidays, furniture often gets rearranged, and holiday decorations go up—but many homeowners unintentionally block heating vents. Others shut vents in unused rooms, thinking they’ll save energy. In reality, these habits can make your furnace work harder and less efficiently.
Why it matters:
- Blocked vents reduce airflow and can cause hot or cold spots.
- Closed vents increase pressure in the duct system and may cause leaks.
- Restricted airflow can lead to overheating and system breakdowns.
What to do:
Keep furniture, curtains, and rugs clear of all vents and returns. Leave vents open throughout the house to maintain balanced airflow. If certain rooms are too cold or too hot, we can help diagnose issues with the ductwork or insulation.
Thomas Hoffmann Air Conditioning & Heating is Here to Help
Avoiding these common heating mistakes can make a huge difference in your comfort and energy bills this winter. If your furnace hasn’t been checked lately—or if something doesn’t feel quite right—Thomas Hoffmann Air Conditioning & Heating is here to help.
✅ Locally owned and operated
✅ Trusted by homeowners across the St. Louis metro area
✅ Fast, reliable service with honest pricing