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When winter hits hard, your HVAC system is already under stress. What you do (or don’t do) during a freeze can be the difference between riding it out comfortably or calling for emergency service at the worst possible time. Here’s the no-nonsense list. DO: Smart Moves That Help Your HVAC System Do keep your thermostat consistent Set it and leave it alone. Large temperature swings don’t heat your home faster—they just force the system to work harder and longer. Best practice: Pick a comfortable temp and stick with it. Do expect longer run times During extreme cold, especially with heat pumps, longer cycles are normal. The system isn’t broken—it’s fighting physics. Do allow heat pumps to defrost If you see steam coming off the outdoor unit, relax. That’s a normal defrost cycle, not smoke or failure. Do keep vents and returns clear Furniture, rugs, or boxes blocking vents choke airflow. Poor airflow equals poor performance and higher strain on the system. Do keep snow and debris away from the outdoor unit Clear around the unit so it can breathe. Airflow matters even in winter. Do change filters if they’re dirty A clogged filter during a freeze is like trying to breathe through a scarf. Restricted airflow can cause shutdowns or icing issues. DON’T: Common Mistakes That Cause Breakdowns Don’t crank the thermostat way up Turning it from 68 to 75 won’t warm the house faster. It will: Trigger excessive auxiliary heat Spike electric bills Stress electrical components Patience costs less. Don’t shut the system off overnight Turning heat off during a freeze increases the risk of: Frozen pipes Long recovery times Emergency service calls If you’re home, keep it running. Don’t block or close vents Closing vents doesn’t “push heat” to other rooms. It disrupts system balance and can cause pressure issues. Don’t pour hot water on the outdoor unit Thermal shock can crack coils and damage components. If ice forms, let the system handle it. Don’t rely on space heaters as your main heat They’re supplemental—not a solution. Overuse can trip breakers, overload wiring, and increase fire risk. Red Flags That Mean Call for Service Cold air blowing consistently System turning on and off rapidly Breakers tripping Ice fully encasing the outdoor unit House never reaching set temperature Ignoring these usually makes the repair bigger and more expensive. That’s not optimism—that’s experience. Final Takeaway Winter freezes don’t break HVAC systems—bad habits do. A well-maintained system, paired with smart operation, will keep your home warm and stable even when the weather gets ugly. If your system struggled during the last freeze, it’s telling you something. Listening now is cheaper than ignoring it until the next cold snap.

Introduction Winter in Middle Tennessee can be unpredictable—one week it’s brisk and sunny, the next it’s freezing and wet. For homeowners, that means heating systems are working overtime, and utility bills can skyrocket. The good news? You don’t have to choose between staying warm and saving money. By following a few smart strategies, you can cut your heating costs while keeping your home comfortable. 1. Schedule a Pre-Winter HVAC Tune-Up A well-maintained system runs more efficiently, uses less energy, and is less likely to break down during peak season. Having your heating unit inspected, cleaned, and adjusted before the coldest months arrive can reduce energy waste and improve indoor air quality. (Pro tip: AVU Heating & Air offers comprehensive tune-ups for Middle Tennessee homeowners.) 2. Replace or Clean Your Air Filters Regularly Dirty filters restrict airflow, forcing your system to work harder to circulate warm air. This not only increases energy usage but also shortens your equipment’s lifespan. Make it a habit to check your filters every 30 days and replace them as needed. 3. Seal Drafts and Improve Insulation Even the most efficient HVAC system can’t compete with leaky windows, doors, or attic spaces. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps and consider adding insulation to attics or crawlspaces. A small investment in sealing drafts can result in a noticeable drop in monthly heating costs. 4. Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat Programmable and smart thermostats automatically adjust the temperature based on your schedule. Lowering your thermostat by just a few degrees while you’re at work or asleep can lead to significant savings without sacrificing comfort. Many newer models also provide energy usage reports, helping you pinpoint further savings. 5. Consider a System Upgrade if Your Unit is Over 10 Years Old Older systems often operate at 60–80% efficiency, while modern high-efficiency furnaces and heat pumps can achieve 90–98% efficiency. If your heating system struggles to keep up or your energy bills keep climbing, an upgrade may pay for itself in reduced utility costs. 6. Leverage Ceiling Fans to Circulate Warm Air Switch ceiling fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed in the winter. This pushes warm air that rises back down into the living space, reducing the workload on your HVAC system. 7. Take Advantage of Preventive Maintenance Plans Signing up for a maintenance plan means your system gets regular inspections and tune-ups without you having to remember to schedule. This can extend equipment life, prevent costly repairs, and maintain energy efficiency year-round. Conclusion & Call-to-Action Lowering your heating bills doesn’t mean shivering through the winter. By combining regular maintenance, small home improvements, and smart technology, you can keep your home warm and your energy costs in check. Ready to start saving? Schedule your winter tune-up with AVU Heating & Air today and let our veteran-owned team help you stay comfortable all season long.

Discover what a furnace filter is, how it works, types of filters, and maintenance tips to ensure optimal performance. Keep your home safe and efficient!

Why HVAC Maintenance Plans Matter (And Why $99 Could Save You Thousands) Your HVAC system is one of the hardest-working parts of your home. It keeps you warm in the winter, cool in the summer, and comfortable year-round—but like any mechanical system, it needs regular attention to stay efficient and reliable. That’s where a maintenance plan comes in. 

1. Weak Airflow from Vents If your AC is on full blast but your home still feels muggy, your system could be struggling with blocked ducts, a failing blower motor, or worse. Weak airflow is never a good sign — it's like your system is whispering, “Help me.” 2. Strange Noises You’ve Never Heard Before Grinding, banging, squealing — no, it’s not a horror movie. It's your HVAC unit crying out for maintenance. Ignoring those sounds could turn a small repair into a full-blown replacement. 3. Higher Energy Bills with No Explanation If your power bill suddenly skyrockets, your HVAC could be working overtime due to a refrigerant leak, clogged filters, or a dying compressor. You shouldn’t have to choose between staying cool and going broke. 4. Hot and Cold Spots Around the House Inconsistent temps from room to room? Your thermostat, ductwork, or even zoning system might be off. These aren’t just comfort issues — they’re signs your system isn’t running efficiently. 5. The System is 10+ Years Old Even the best units wear out. If your HVAC is a decade old and showing any of the above symptoms, it's time to start thinking about a replacement before you're forced into an emergency install. Conclusion: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late Tennessee heat doesn’t take breaks, and neither should your HVAC. A quick tune-up now could save you thousands later. At AVU Air, we offer maintenance plans starting at just $99 a year, with priority service and exclusive discounts. 📞 Call us today at 931-842-5392 to schedule your check-up. Stay cool, stay safe — AVU has your back.

What Is Duct Cleaning, Really?

Wondering if you should replace just your AC or the entire HVAC system? Learn the key factors to consider for better efficiency, cost savings, and home comfort.

Upgrade to a new HVAC system for better comfort, energy efficiency, and indoor air quality. Stay cool in summer and warm in winter with a reliable upgrade.

A dirty HVAC air filter lowers efficiency and air quality. Learn to spot signs like dust buildup, weak airflow, and rising bills for timely replacement.