How to Keep Your Home Warm in Winter Without Overworking Your HVAC System
When winter settles over Central Arkansas, homeowners turn up the heat to stay comfortable—but cranking up the thermostat can put unnecessary strain on your HVAC system. Overworked units run longer, experience more wear and tear, and use more energy, leading to higher utility bills and a greater risk of mid-season breakdowns.
The good news? You can keep your home warm and protect your heating system with simple, smart strategies that take the pressure off your furnace or heat pump. Here’s how to stay cozy during the coldest months in North Little Rock, Cabot, Sherwood, Jacksonville, and the surrounding areas—without pushing your HVAC system to its limits.
Seal Out the Cold Air Before You Turn Up the Heat
Your HVAC unit can work overtime if cold drafts are constantly sneaking into your home. Even small leaks around doors and windows can create big comfort problems.
Weatherstrip doors and windows
Inexpensive weatherstripping keeps warm air inside and cold air where it belongs.
Check for gaps in exterior walls
Pay special attention to areas around plumbing penetrations, cable lines, and dryer vents.
Close fireplace dampers
If not in use, a chimney acts like a giant open window.
The less cold air coming in, the less your HVAC system must compensate for it.
Use Your Curtains and Blinds to Your Advantage
Sunshine is free heat—use it.
Open curtains on south-facing windows during the day
Natural sunlight helps warm main living areas with zero impact on your furnace.
Close curtains at night
Insulated curtains help trap heat inside and reduce drafts. Small changes in heat retention add up, especially during long cold spells.
Adjust Your Thermostat Wisely
Constantly raising and lowering your thermostat forces your system to work harder. Instead, try:
Setting it and forgetting it
A steady indoor temperature is more efficient than temperature swings.
Lowering the thermostat slightly at night
A drop of just 2–3 degrees saves energy without causing discomfort.
Using a programmable or smart thermostat
These devices help regulate heat more efficiently and reduce strain on your system.
Let Your Ceiling Fans Help Out (Yes, Really!)
Most fans have a reverse mode for winter.
Switch fans to rotate clockwise
This pushes warm air—naturally rising toward the ceiling—down into the room.
It’s an easy trick that improves comfort and reduces how often your heater cycles on.
Keep Your Vents Clear and Open
Closed vents don’t save energy—they actually increase strain.
Make sure vents aren’t blocked
Move furniture, rugs, or curtains that impede airflow.
Keep all vents open
Closing vents creates pressure imbalances that force your system to work harder and may damage ductwork.
Free-flowing air means smoother operation and consistent heating.
Replace Your Air Filters Regularly
Arkansas homes often deal with dust, pet dander, and pollen, which clog filters faster than many homeowners expect.
Replace filters every 30–60 days in winter
A clogged filter restricts airflow, causing the system to overheat or short cycle.
Clean filters keep your system efficient and your indoor air much healthier.
Use Space Heaters Safely and Strategically
If you spend most of your time in a single room, a portable heater can ease the load on your HVAC system—but only if used correctly.
Safety reminders:
Keep heaters 3 feet away from furniture
Never use extension cords
Turn off before bed or leaving the house
Choose models with auto shut-off
Supplemental heat reduces strain only when used responsibly.
Schedule a Winter HVAC Tune-Up
Regular maintenance, which is part of our Can Do Club Membership, is the best way to prevent winter breakdowns and unnecessary strain.
A professional tune-up includes:
Checking refrigerant and pressure levels
Testing electrical components
Cleaning coils and blowers
Inspecting heat exchangers
Ensuring safe furnace operation
Improving overall efficiency
A tuned system runs smoother, lasts longer, and provides better heat during extreme cold.
Insulate and Protect Key Areas of Your Home
Heat escapes through attics, crawlspaces, and under-insulated walls.
Improving insulation:
Reduces heat loss
Helps maintain stable indoor temperatures
Prevents your HVAC system from running constantly
Even inexpensive DIY insulation upgrades can make a noticeable difference.
The Big Picture: Comfort Doesn’t Have to Burden Your HVAC System
Winter comfort in Arkansas doesn’t have to come with overworked equipment and skyrocketing energy bills. By improving airflow, sealing drafts, using your home’s natural warmth, and scheduling seasonal tune-ups, you’ll enjoy a more comfortable home with far less HVAC strain.
Your heating system will thank you—and so will your utility bill.
If you're noticing uneven heating, weak airflow, unusual noises, or an HVAC system working harder than usual, it may be time for a professional inspection. Our technicians are here to help keep you warm all winter long.